10 Best Scenic Spots in Arizona
Content
Walking the scenic route is the best way to see what the region has to offer. Too often, travelers get caught up in things like having a good time or keeping to a schedule when all it takes is rushing them past amazing places to see and experience unique experiences. For those who want to truly enjoy Arizona's diverse landscape, which is far from just a boring hot desert, try one of these scenic drives. Along the way, feel free to stop for further exploration when a unique opportunity presents itself, such as standing where John Wayne once tipped his hat, or watching one of the seven natural wonders of the world go down. .
#10 – Route 66
Start Location: Topok, Arizona
Final location: Holbrook, Arizona
Length: Mile 304
Best driving season: All
View this drive on Google Maps
Arizona is home to the cleanest miles of historic Route 66, though most of it still lines up with I-40. However, for the patient travelers who are more interested in the journey than the destination, this iconic route offers a wealth of attractions, from the stunning Black Mountains to kitschy businesses full of Old West charm. Notable stops along the way include the Grand Canyon Caverns, Meteor Crater, and the concrete wigwam at the end of the trip.
No. 9 - Kaibab Plateau
Start LocationPeople: Jacob Lake, Arizona
Final location: Cape Royal, Arizona
Length: Mile 60
Best driving season: All
View this drive on Google Maps
Although this driveway is known as the "Gateway to the Grand Canyon," it doesn't attract much tourist attention simply because the roads provide a longer, more winding route. Along the way, stop at the Grand Canyon Lodge to take photos from the North Rim, or follow one of the hiking trails that range from easy to difficult. After that, Point Imperial offers views from the highest point in the region, where not only the wonders of the Grand Canyon, but also the Navajo Reservation and the Colorado River can be seen.
No. 8 - Oak Creek Canyon.
Start Location: Flagstaff, Arizona
Final location: Sedona, Arizona
Length: Mile 29
Best driving season: All
View this drive on Google Maps
Much of this winding route follows the fault line of the 2000-foot-deep Oak Creek Canyon before descending into a virtual grove of desert rock formations. Travelers planning to stop along the way for a picnic or hike must have a Red Rock Pass or America the Beautiful Pass to be able to park. In fact, it's highly recommended to stop by to explore wonders ranging from the Pumphouse Wash Bridge to Slide Rock State Park.
No. 7 - Tucson Mountain Park and Saguaro National Park.
Start Location: South Tucson, Arizona
Final location: Saguaro National Park, Arizona.
Length: Mile 26
Best driving season: All
View this drive on Google Maps
For those who live in or visit Tucson, this less than an hour trip is a great way to pass part of the day. The route passes right through a forest of saguaro cacti, which can reach 60 feet in height and live for about 150 years. There are also plenty of scenic views of the Tucson Mountains, and movie buffs should consider stopping by Old Tucson Studios, where John Wayne and Clint Eastwood filmed numerous films.
#6 - Apache Trail
Start Location: Apache Junction, Arizona
Final location: Globe, Arizona
Length: Mile 77
Best driving season: All
View this drive on Google Maps
Former President Theodore Roosevelt once boasted that the Apache Trail was "one of the most breathtaking and worth seeing sights in the world," and it's certainly a walk full of both natural and man-made wonders. From the historic gold mine in the ghost town of Goldfield to the majestic mountains of superstition, there's no shortage of things to delight travelers. However, keep in mind that the first part of the Apache Trail is paved, while the second is not.
No. 5 - Coronado Scenic Trail.
Start Location: Clifton, Arizona
Final location: Springerville, Arizona
Length: Mile 144
Best driving season: All
View this drive on Google Maps
This lane may not have a lot of traffic, but it has plenty of breathtaking views to make it worth the trip. From the Morenci Copper Mine Overlook, which overlooks the largest copper mine in the United States, to Chase Canyon with its hairpin turns, there's always something to keep travelers on their toes. The highlight of the drive, however, is the volcanic Mount Escudilla, Arizona's third highest peak at 10,912 feet.
#4 - Monument Valley
Start Location: Kayentha, Arizona
Final location: Mexican hat, Utah
Length: Mile 42
Best driving season: All
View this drive on Google Maps
Monument Valley may be a geologist's dream, but anyone can appreciate the magnificence of the various rock formations that can be seen along this route. Many formations, such as Elephant Feet and Chaistla Butte, will look familiar from the silver screen, but there are countless other rock formations to entertain hikers. There is also the option to extend your trip by taking a detour to visit the Navajo National Monument, Gooseneck State Park, and Valley of the Gods.
No. 3 - Scenic Red Rock Lane.
Start Location: Sedona, Arizona
Final location: Oak Creek, Arizona
Length: Mile 15
Best driving season: All
View this drive on Google Maps
At just 15 miles long, the Red Rock Scenic Byway might seem like it has a lot to offer, but this short ride passes through a variety of desert flora and fauna. These exhibits are complemented by a backdrop full of majestic formations, including the red rock named after the route. With Red Rock Pass, hikers can park up close and see wonders such as the Chapel of the Holy Cross, which is built right into the red rock plateau, and Cathedral Rock, which is a popular hiking destination. .
No. 2 - Picturesque lane of Sky Island.
Start Location: Tucson, Arizona
Final location: Mount Lemmon, Arizona
Length: Mile 38
Best driving season: Spring, summer and autumn
View this drive on Google Maps
This route takes explorers through a 6,000-foot climb that simulates all four seasons in one trip, but the views at the top are well worth the change in temperature and dizzying altitude. There are no gas stations along the way, so travelers should be prepared with a full tank, plenty of water, and even a jacket on hand. Windy Point and Geology Vista are favorite spots for photographers, but there are countless other opportunities to hone your camera skills, such as the Butterfly Trail or Mount Lemmon Sky Center.
#1 - Grand Canyon Loop
Start Location: Flagstaff, Arizona
Final location: Flagstaff, Arizona
Length: Mile 205
Best driving season: All
View this drive on Google Maps
For travelers who have a full day or weekend to explore the region, the Grand Canyon Loop is a must on the to-do list. The ride takes you through some of the most breathtaking views to appreciate this natural wonder of the world, and with America the Beautiful Pass, visitors can stop and forge a closer connection with the land through a hike or trail ride. There are also ample opportunities to observe local wildlife such as coyotes and red-tailed hawks, but visitors should keep a close eye on less friendly natives such as rattlesnakes and scorpions.
