The Best Scenic Drives in Auburn, AL

Whether you’re an Auburn local or a tourist, you’re bound to feel at home in this city with the nickname “The Loveliest Village on the Plains.” Our fast-growing metropolitan area features Auburn University, which is a well-known historic college with quaint architecture. Downtown has a similar old-fashioned vibe, but the real treasure is the scenic drives in the surrounding areas. Many people go on these little adventures with their families or on date nights to make special memories. The beautiful landscapes might even be worth taking a detour if you’re passing through during a long road trip.

Here at Hyundai of Auburn, we want to share some of our favorite scenic drives in and around our city that you’re sure to appreciate. Read on to discover some of the best drives our charming town has to offer. If you need a new ride to enjoy these drives, be sure to visit our location and shop for the perfect companion for your next trip.

Talladega Scenic Drive

Mount Cheaha010 by Brian Collins is licensed with CC BY 2.0

Head north of Auburn to experience the Talladega Scenic Drive, which is officially Alabama State Route 281. Seeing as the route passes through Cheaha Mountain, you and your passengers will get a bird’s-eye view of the Appalachian Mountains. Consider making a stop at this highest point in the state, as the mountain is home to Cheaha State Park. You can have lunch at a restaurant, grab a souvenir at a shop and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. Animals ranging from white-tailed deer and wild turkeys to bald eagles are abundant and make for great pictures.

Another potential stop along the Talladega Scenic Drive includes the Pinhoti National Recreation Trail, but many adventurers are content with staying on the road. Views like none other are especially evident when you notice a bluish haze during the summer months. This shade derives from the lush greenery releasing condensation into the warm air and creates a beautiful hue. If you’re up for a longer drive, you can keep going from the Talladega Scenic Drive to the Appalachian Highlands Scenic Byway.

Cheaha State Park Road

Within Cheaha State Park is the lesser-known Cheaha State Park Road. This scenic route is also known as County Road 42 and allows visitors to explore a “road less traveled.” It starts in Munford and snakes its way through Talladega National Forest. The picturesque road features winding curves, roadside brambles, and uneven asphalt. Cheaha State Park Road is especially beautiful during autumn, as you can experience fall foliage that you might only otherwise see on TV.

It’s worth noting that the park doesn’t recommend the unrefined road for larger recreational vehicles, so consider pulling up in something smaller like a compact SUV or crossover. These sturdy vehicles can handle the rougher terrain while being small enough to help you navigate with ease. Seeing as the road is close to Cheaha State Park, you can take pit stops to enjoy activities ranging from hiking to mountain biking.

The Black Belt Nature and Heritage Trail

The Black Belt Nature and Heritage Trail extends horizontally through the middle of Alabama with a significant portion of it just south of Auburn. The name of the trail comes from the rich black soil that grew superior cotton during the 1800s. When the plantation economy collapsed during the Civil War, a prominent culture of soul food, art, and pristine river bottom land remained. Highlights of this drive include roads winding next to the Tombigbee, Black Warrior, and Alabama rivers. Their waters invite various birds and flora to the banks and allow passersby to look for different species.

You can elevate your scenic drive even more by making stops along the way. Consider broadening your knowledge of and appreciation for the area’s history by visiting the Coleman Center for Arts and Culture. You might also view artifacts at the Old Cahawba Archeological Park, hike at Chickasaw State Park, or learn about beef production at the Black Belt Research and Extension Center. There’s also the Demopolis Lake, which is the largest lake in the Black Warrior/Tombigbee system. Wildflowers bloom along the trail from spring through fall and attract butterflies and dragonflies that feed on the nectar.

Barbour County Governors’ Trail

A 2000 legislative act officially established the Barbour County Governors’ Trail. The route honors Alabama governors who were from Barbour County, including John Gill Shorter and William Dorsey. These politicians had significant impacts on not only local proceedings but also received national recognition for their work. Though the governors’ achievements were significant, you’ll probably be more focused on the beautiful scenery during your drive. As for landmarks, you can stop at the Octagon House to see the headquarters of Union troops immediately following the Civil War.

Another popular spot is Old Franklin Road, which is a route that Georgia roadway settlers used to get to Barbour County in the early 1900s. Consider stopping at Blue Springs State Park to cool off in a spring-fed swimming pool, have a picnic, or let your kids burn off energy on the playground. Blue Springs State Park is also a prime area for camping, so be sure to pack your gear for an overnight trip. For activities like boating and fishing, be sure to visit Lake Eufaula.

We hope this list of the best scenic drives in and around Auburn helps you plan your next adventure. Whether you want to spend a day with your family, impress your date or make a road trip extra special, these drives are foolproof. Be sure to let us know of other local scenic drives that are worth trying out.

Aside from local recommendations, our team here at Hyundai of Auburn can help you have a safe and enjoyable ride. Visit our location off Opelika Road to buy the perfect vehicle for your trips. Our financing options, vast inventory, and friendly customer service make car shopping as easy as possible. We also have a comprehensive service department to ensure your vehicle can keep going the distance.