Road Trips & Scenic Drives in Arizona: Breathtaking Routes, Desert Highways & Unforgettable Views
Arizona is one of the most scenic states in America for road trips, offering an incredible mix of red rock landscapes, mountain passes, desert highways, historic routes, and wide-open views. Whether you’re planning a quick half-day drive or a full multi-day adventure, the state’s roads lead to some of the most beautiful and surprising places in the Southwest.
This section highlights Arizona’s best scenic drives, road-trip itineraries, hidden roadside stops, photography points, and must-see viewpoints along the way. You’ll find everything from iconic drives like Oak Creek Canyon and Route 66 to lesser-known routes that offer peaceful scenery far from the crowds.
Whether you’re looking for dramatic landscapes, charming small towns, winding mountain roads, or relaxing sunset drives, use the guides below to plan a memorable adventure across Arizona’s highways and byways.
Top Road Trip & Scenic Drive Guides
Types of Road Trips & Scenic Drives in Arizona
Iconic Scenic Drives
Arizona is overflowing with iconic routes known for dramatic landscapes and unforgettable views. From the red rock curves of Oak Creek Canyon to the twisting mountain roads above Sedona and Prescott, these drives deliver classic Arizona beauty.
Related Guides:
• Best Scenic Drives in Arizona
• Oak Creek Canyon Drive
• Most Photogenic Road Trip Routes
Short Drives & Quick Escapes
Not every road trip needs to be all day. These short, scenic drives are perfect for quick getaways, sunset trips, and relaxing weekend moods. Many are less than an hour long and require minimal planning.
Related Guides:
• Best Short Scenic Drives
• Sunset Drives Around Phoenix
• Easy Morning Drives with Great Views
Multi-Day Road Trips
Arizona’s geography makes it perfect for multi-day adventures. Explore northern forests, red rock areas, historic small towns, and desert parks all in one trip. These itineraries are ideal for families, couples, and adventure travelers.
Related Guides:
• Ultimate Arizona Road Trip
• Northern Arizona 3-Day Itinerary
• Southern Arizona Scenic Route Guide
Historic & Cultural Routes
Arizona’s highways hold centuries of history, from Route 66 towns to old mining roads and Indigenous lands. These drives combine scenery with culture, stories, and unusual roadside attractions.
Related Guides:
• Top Route 66 Stops
• Best Historic Drives in Arizona
• Old Mining Roads & Ghost Town Routes
Off-the-Beaten-Path Scenic Roads
These underrated roads lead to quiet viewpoints, remote natural wonders, and peaceful landscapes far from busy highways. Perfect for travelers who want something different.
Related Guides:
• Hidden Road Trip Gems
• Remote Scenic Drives
• Overlook Spots Most Tourists Miss
How to Prepare for Road Trips in Arizona
Because Arizona’s landscapes shift dramatically from region to region, preparing for a road trip depends on where you’re headed. Desert drives can bring extreme heat, while northern routes may experience snow and cooler temperatures. Always check the weather and road conditions before heading out—especially in monsoon season or winter.
Bring plenty of water, snacks, and a basic roadside kit, as remote areas may not have services for long stretches. Download offline maps since cell reception can be limited in mountains or canyons. If you plan to stop at viewpoints or trailheads, wear comfortable shoes and pack sun protection.
Most importantly, give yourself time. Arizona’s scenery is incredible, and you’ll want the flexibility to pull off at overlooks, visit small towns, and enjoy unexpected surprises along the route.
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