I've learned the most about deer movement and habitat a month or two after the season -- that would be January through February and possibly into early March where I hunt. By that time, the leaves have all fallen and most of the underbrush is dormant -- so trails, rubs, scrapes, etc. are much more apparent. Scouting on foot gives me the opportunity to carefully look the area over.
Also, since we usually hunt the same area during the spring turkey season, I use some of that time afield to observe deer movement and patterns.
Like you, I have to travel some to get to the place where I hunt, so I try to make my visits on weekends. Then, I can scout in the evening, the next morning and midday -- then head back home in the evening. This gives me a look at things in varying light conditions and circumstances.
Good luck with your scouting and hunting.