5 Scenic Drives to Take Near Sacramento

Between the Pacific Coast Highway, Yosemite National Park, and the Golden Gate Bridge, Sacramento faces some stiff competition when it comes to scenic drives in California. Don’t be fooled, however—the capital city is actually home to some of the most breathtaking rides you can take in the Golden State.

Below are five of the most scenic drives near Sacramento. 

1. Clear Lake 

Taking Route 16 to Route 20 will set you up for multiple access points to Clear Lake, the largest freshwater lake in California and the oldest lake in North America. This drive can easily top 200 miles roundtrip, so get out to stretch your legs and take in the view. 

2. Gold Country

Sacramento is known for its rich history of gold mining, and it’s evident in the drive along Interstate 80 through Route 49 and Route 16 back into town. There’s plenty of shops and eateries along the way so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to break up this 120-mile drive.

3. South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is just over 100 miles from Sacramento. While the destination is amazing, the thrill is in the journey along Highway 50 and the Eldorado National Forest.

4. Twain Harte

Route 16 to Route 49 and Route 108 takes you through the Sierra foothills and into Stanislaus National Forest. A trip to Twain Harte will set you back more than 200 miles roundtrip, but you won’t even notice. After all, they don’t name just anything after Mark Twain.

5. Capay Valley

An hour northwest of Sacramento lies Capay Valley, where California’s farm-to-fork culture is on full display. Hop on Highway 16 and take in the many orchards, vegetable fields and vineyards, all set against the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Cache Creek.

Take a Drive to Thompsons Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram

There’s one drive near Sacramento that’s both scenic and offers a practical destination. Take Route 50 northeast from Sacramento for around 40 miles until you hit Thompsons Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in nearby Placerville, CA.

Along the way, you’ll catch glimpses of Lake Natoma, some giant sequoia trees, historical gold country sites and much more. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by friendly staff ready to help however we can. Take advantage of our Express Lane and get an oil change, tire rotation or a number of other tuneup services with no appointment necessary before you make the drive back home. 

Stay safe out there, and enjoy the ride.