Arizona is home to some of the country's most breathtaking scenic drives and roadside attractions. From the winding roads of Sedona's Red Rock Scenic Byway to the historic Route 66, Arizona's streets offer a unique and stunning backdrop for a road trip adventure. This blog will look at some of Arizona's most beautiful road trips and what you can expect to see along the way.
Sedona's Red Rock Scenic Byway
One of Arizona's most popular scenic drives, the Red Rock Scenic Byway, takes you through the heart of Sedona's stunning red rock formations. This 89-mile drive offers breathtaking views of Sedona's iconic red rocks and is a must-do for any traveler. Along the way, you'll also have the chance to visit historic sites, scenic overlooks, and the vibrant arts community of Sedona.
Sedona travel guide Sedona airport transportation
Route 66
A classic American road trip, Route 66 takes you from Chicago to Santa Monica, California, passing through a range of iconic roadside attractions. In Arizona, Route 66 takes you through Flagstaff's vibrant city and Williams's charming town, giving you a glimpse into the state's rich history and unique culture. Whether you're a history buff or love a good road trip, Route 66 is a must-do in Arizona.
Flagstaff distance from Phoenix
The Apache Trail
One of the scenic drives in the state, the Apache Trail, takes you through the heart of Arizona's Superstition Mountains, passing by stunning lakes, deserts, and canyons. This drive offers a unique glimpse into Arizona's rugged wilderness and is an excellent choice for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. You'll also have the chance to visit historic gold mines, scenic overlooks, and local Native American communities.
Travel with Arizona Shuttle
Make your road trip even more accessible by traveling with Arizona Shuttle. Arizona Shuttle is a shuttle service that assures safe, reliable, and affordable transportation options for travelers visiting Arizona. Whether traveling to and from the airport, exploring the state's scenic drives, or attending a special event, Arizona Shuttle has you covered. With convenient pick-up and drop-off locations, comfortable
transportation options, and experienced drivers, Arizona Shuttle quickly makes it easy to get to and from your destination. Whether traveling solo, with a group, or with your family, Arizona Shuttle has a transportation option to suit your needs.
Arizona is a road-tripper paradise with breathtaking scenery, rich history, and unique cultural experiences. Arizona's scenic drives and roadside attractions are a must-see for anyone visiting the state. And with Arizona Shuttle, getting to and from your destination has always been challenging. So why not pack your bags, hit the road, and discover all Arizona offers?
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some must-see historic sites along the Red Rock Scenic Byway?
You can visit places like Boynton Canyon, Courthouse Butte, and the Chapel of the Holy Trinity along the byway.
How long does it take to drive the Apache Trail?
The Apache Trail is about 89 miles one-way, taking around 3-4 hours depending on traffic and stops.
What kind of attractions can I find in Flagstaff and Williams while driving Route 66?
In Flagstaff, explore the Museum of Northern Arizona. In Williams, visit the Grand Canyon Railway Station and the historic La Posada Hotel.
Is it worth taking a shuttle service for exploring these scenic drives?
Yes, Arizona Shuttle offers safe and reliable transportation to make your road trip more convenient.
Phoenix to Grand Canyon: The Ultimate Arizona Road Trip
One of the most iconic journeys in Arizona is the drive from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon, a route that showcases the state's diverse landscapes from desert terrain to one of the world's natural wonders. While the straight-through drive takes about three and a half hours covering roughly 250 miles, experts recommend allocating five to six days for a proper road trip experience that allows you to explore both cities and numerous stops along the way.
Starting from Phoenix, travelers heading toward the Grand Canyon can take Interstate 17 north, then connect to US-60 and eventually US-89. This route passes through Flagstaff, a vibrant mountain town that makes an excellent overnight stop. Along the way, spontaneous side trips abound, including opportunities to explore Sedona's red rocks or visit historic Route 66 towns.
The grand finale of this journey is Grand Canyon National Park, where the massive canyon awaits with its layered bands of colorful rock. According to the National Park Service, the park offers numerous viewpoints along both the South and North Rims, each providing unique perspectives of this geological wonder.
Arizona 89A: Prescott to Flagstaff Scenic Byway
Stretching from Prescott to Flagstaff, Arizona 89A ranks among the most beautiful drives in the state thanks to its combination of dramatic landscapes and historic communities. This route encompasses several designated scenic roads including Dry Creek Scenic Road, the Jerome-Clarkdale-Cottonwood Historic Road, and Mingus Mountain Scenic Road, each offering distinct experiences.
The drive connects three popular Arizona destinations—Prescott, Sedona, and Flagstaff—making it perfect for travelers who want to experience multiple towns in one journey. Prescott charms visitors with its historic courthouse square and western heritage, while Sedona draws crowds with its stunning red rock formations and spiritual vortex sites. Flagstaff provides a college-town atmosphere at the foot of the San Francisco Peaks.
The 120-mile route offers countless photo opportunities, from the panoramic views along Mingus Mountain to the unique geology visible from overlooks throughout the drive. Photography enthusiasts will find no shortage of subjects, particularly during golden hour when the landscape transforms with warm lighting.
Desert to Tall Pines Scenic Road: Young to Tonto Natural Bridge
For travelers seeking a lesser-known adventure, the Desert to Tall Pines Scenic Road offers an unforgettable journey through Arizona's transition zones. Officially designated as State Highway 288 and Forest Road 512, this approximately 74-mile route begins in the small town of Young and travels north through protected ecosystems and stunning natural areas.
The route passes through Pleasant Valley Cemetery, a historic site that speaks to the area's pioneer history, before reaching one of Arizona's most impressive natural attractions: Tonto Natural Bridge State Park. Home to what is believed to be the largest natural travertine bridge in the world, this park offers hiking trails that showcase the dramatic geological formations carved over millennia.
Experts recommend allowing one to two days for this scenic road trip, as the winding mountain roads and numerous pullouts encourage unhurried exploration. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with chances to spot deer, javelina, and numerous bird species throughout the route.
Catalina Highway: Tucson's Sky Island Drive
Rising dramatically from the Sonoran Desert floor near Tucson, the Catalina Highway provides one of Arizona's most diverse drives in under 30 miles. This scenic route climbs nearly 6,000 feet from the desert to the pine forests of Mount Lemmon, passing through multiple ecological zones that showcase Arizona's remarkable biodiversity.
The highway winds through the Santa Catalina Mountains, offering numerous trailheads and scenic overlooks along the way. Popular stops include the small community of Summerhaven, the Cookie Cabin restaurant, and countless hiking areas managed by the Coronado National Forest. Despite being less than 30 miles from end to end, the variety of hiking trails and wildlife-watching vistas make the Catalina Highway a popular route to pack in a tent and turn into a real Arizona road trip.
The temperature difference between the desert floor and the mountain top can exceed 30 degrees, making this drive particularly popular during Tucson's hot summer months when visitors seek relief in the cooler mountain air.
Comparing Arizona's Most Beautiful Road Trips
| Route | Distance | Key Highlights | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phoenix to Grand Canyon | ~250 miles one-way | Desert landscapes, Flagstaff, multiple national parks | First-time Arizona visitors |
| Arizona 89A (Prescott to Flagstaff) | ~120 miles | Red rocks, historic towns, mountain views | Culture and scenery seekers |
| Desert to Tall Pines (SR-288) | ~74 miles | Transition ecosystems, Tonto Natural Bridge | Nature enthusiasts |
| Catalina Highway | Under 30 miles | Dramatic elevation change, hiking trails | Day trippers, hikers |
| Apache Trail (AZ-88) | ~40 miles one-way | Lakes, ghost towns, Superstition Mountains | History and adventure lovers |
Planning Your Arizona Scenic Drive Adventure
When planning your Arizona road trip, consider the time of year carefully, as temperatures vary dramatically across the state's diverse elevations. Summer months make higher-elevation routes like Flagstaff and Mount Lemmon particularly appealing, while desert routes shine during spring and fall when temperatures are moderate.
Gas stations and services can be limited on some of the more remote scenic drives, so filling your tank before departing from major towns is essential. Many of Arizona's scenic byways also have unpaved sections, so checking road conditions and ensuring your vehicle is appropriate for the route is advisable.
Whether you choose the iconic Grand Canyon route, the culture-rich Arizona 89A, or the lesser-known gems like Desert to Tall Pines, Arizona's scenic drives offer unforgettable experiences that showcase the state's remarkable diversity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to drive Arizona's scenic byways?
Spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) offer the most comfortable temperatures across Arizona's various elevations. Summer is ideal for mountain routes like Flagstaff and Mount Lemmon, while winter may bring closures on some higher-elevation roads.
Do I need a reservation to visit Grand Canyon National Park?
Grand Canyon National Park can become very crowded during peak summer season. While day-use does not typically require reservations, overnight stays and certain activities may require advance booking. Checking the National Park Service website before your visit for current requirements is recommended.
Are the scenic byways suitable for RVs and trailers?
Some routes like Arizona 89A and the Phoenix to Grand Canyon corridor accommodate RVs well. However, narrower mountain roads like the Apache Trail and portions of Catalina Highway may be challenging for larger vehicles. Always check vehicle restrictions before planning your route.
What should I pack for an Arizona scenic drive?
Essentials include plenty of water, snacks, a full tank of gas, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and appropriate clothing layers for temperature changes. A camera is highly recommended to capture the stunning landscapes.
Can I complete multiple scenic drives in one trip?
Absolutely. Many travelers combine routes by looping through the state. A popular itinerary loops from Tucson through Phoenix, Sedona, Flagstaff, and back through the Grand Canyon before returning to Tucson, allowing you to experience multiple scenic byways in approximately 10 days.
Are there cell phone service and amenities along these routes?
Cell service can be spotty or nonexistent on more remote scenic drives like the Desert to Tall Pines and portions of the Apache Trail. Gas stations and restaurants are generally available in towns along each route, but distances between services can be significant on rural sections.
What makes Arizona's road trips unique compared to other states?
Arizona offers an extraordinary diversity of landscapes within a relatively compact area, from Sonoran Desert to pine forests, red rock canyons to one of the world's greatest natural wonders. The state's network of designated scenic byways makes it easy to explore these varied environments while learning about Arizona's rich Native American and pioneer history.
