Written by Rex Vogel, RVing with Rex explores North America one meaningful place at a time through destination guides, history, slow travel, and thoughtful storytelling. Drawing on years of RV travel and firsthand experience, the site helps readers move beyond simply seeing places to truly experiencing them.
In just 27 miles, Arizona’s Sky Island Scenic Byway climbs from the Sonoran Desert to the alpine forests of Mount Lemmon. Discover scenic overlooks, changing ecosystems, wildlife, and why this remarkable drive is one of the Southwest’s most unforgettable journeys.
Few roads in America offer such a dramatic transformation in such a short distance.
Just northeast of Tucson, Arizona, the Sky Island Scenic Byway—also known as the Catalina Highway—begins among towering saguaros and Sonoran Desert scrub before climbing into the Santa Catalina Mountains. As the elevation rises, the landscape changes from desert to oak woodland, pine forest, and finally an alpine environment where aspen trees replace cactus.
In only 27 miles, this remarkable road gains more than 6,000 feet in elevation and crosses five distinct climate zones. A traveler can begin the day surrounded by desert heat and end it among forests that seem more at home in the Rocky Mountains.
For many visitors, Mount Lemmon is the destination. But after driving this road several times, I have learned that the real experience is the journey itself.
Each trip reveals something different—a sweeping overlook, a changing landscape, an unexpected wildlife encounter, or simply the joy of watching Arizona transform one mile at a time.
The Sky Island Scenic Byway is more than a scenic drive. It is a reminder that slowing down allows us to discover how much can change within a single mountain range.
Where isolated mountain ranges create a world of unexpected diversity
The term “sky island” describes one of southern Arizona’s most remarkable natural features: isolated mountain ranges rising above surrounding desert lowlands.
As these mountains climb higher, temperatures drop and ecosystems change. Desert vegetation gives way to grasslands, oak woodlands, pine forests, and alpine environments, creating an extraordinary variety of habitats within a small area.
The Santa Catalina Mountains are one of the best examples. Protected within the Coronado National Forest, they rise dramatically above Tucson with Mount Lemmon reaching 9,157 feet above sea level.
That elevation creates a remarkable contrast. On summer days when Tucson temperatures soar above 100 degrees, the summit of Mount Lemmon offers a cool mountain refuge only a short drive away.
But the real wonder of the Sky Island Scenic Byway is not simply escaping the desert heat. It is experiencing the incredible diversity of landscapes and life created by this dramatic climb.
Where every mile reveals a different Arizona landscape
The magic of the Sky Island Scenic Byway is not found only at the summit of Mount Lemmon. It begins the moment the road starts climbing.
Leaving the desert floor northeast of Tucson, the Catalina Highway winds through a landscape that defines southern Arizona. Towering saguaros stand among rocky slopes while ocotillo and desert vegetation line the roadway. It is the Arizona many travelers expect to see.
But the desert does not last long.
As the highway climbs into the Santa Catalina Mountains, subtle changes begin to appear. The air becomes cooler, the vegetation shifts, and the desert slowly gives way to a series of higher-elevation habitats.
Saguaros disappear behind you as grasslands and oak woodlands replace the desert floor. Higher still, pine forests dominate the slopes and eventually aspen groves appear—an alpine landscape that seems almost impossible to find above the Sonoran Desert.
That is the wonder of the Sky Island Scenic Byway. In less than 30 miles, a traveler experiences a transition that would normally require hundreds of miles of driving.
For RV travelers exploring southern Arizona, this is a road best enjoyed without rushing. Leave the motorhome behind, take a day, and allow the mountain to reveal itself slowly.
The reward is not simply reaching Mount Lemmon. It is noticing the transformation along the way—the changing vegetation, the cooler air, and the realization that one road can connect such different worlds.
Windy Point reveals the dramatic meeting of desert and mountain
A road like the Sky Island Scenic Byway is not meant to be rushed. Its greatest rewards come from the moments when you stop, step outside, and allow the landscape to reveal itself.
As the Catalina Highway climbs higher into the Santa Catalina Mountains, the Sonoran Desert spreads out below. Tucson becomes a distant patchwork on the valley floor while rugged mountain slopes rise around you. The road has carried you from the desert into another world, and nowhere is that transformation more dramatic than Windy Point Vista.
Windy Point is one of those places where travelers naturally pause. The view stretches across the Santa Catalina Mountains, revealing deep canyons, granite formations, and forested slopes—a landscape that seems impossible when you remember the cactus-covered desert left behind only a short distance earlier.
The name is fitting. The mountain breeze offers a reminder that elevation changes everything. The air feels cooler, the vegetation has shifted, and the view reveals the remarkable relationship between the desert below and the mountain world above.
I have stopped at Windy Point many times and each visit offers something different. Changing light, passing clouds, and the seasons create a landscape that never feels exactly the same twice.
Farther along the highway, overlooks such as San Pedro Vista and Sycamore Canyon Vista provide additional perspectives of the Santa Catalina Mountains. But for many travelers—including me—Windy Point is the moment when the Sky Island Scenic Byway truly announces itself.
The Sky Island Scenic Byway is not only a journey through changing landscapes—it is a journey through changing life.
As the highway climbs from the Sonoran Desert into the Santa Catalina Mountains, the habitats change and so do the creatures that call these places home. Desert birds among the saguaros give way to mountain species among the pines and aspens, creating an extraordinary diversity of life within a relatively short distance.
For birders, this transition is one of the great treasures of southern Arizona. A single drive can move through habitats that support species found in very different environments, reminding visitors that the Sky Islands are far more than scenic mountain ranges.
But the most memorable encounters are often the ones we never expect.
One of my favorite moments along the Catalina Highway happened at the Palisades Visitor Center on a warm winter day. As I walked from the parking area toward the ranger station, I noticed movement nearby. To my surprise, a white-nosed coati was moving through the area.
The coati was completely focused on its own search for food, paying little attention to the curious observer nearby. It wandered through the area, exploring and foraging, while I watched and photographed one of the Santa Catalina Mountains’ most unusual residents.
I was both surprised and excited by the encounter. It was not something I had planned or expected to see that day but it became one of the moments I remember most from my many drives along this mountain road.
That is the magic of the Sky Island Scenic Byway. The road is not only about reaching Mount Lemmon or collecting another scenic viewpoint. It is about slowing down enough to notice the details—the changing habitats, the sounds of birds overhead, and the wildlife that appears when we take the time to look.
A mountain village shaped by forests, fire, and renewal
After miles of winding mountain roads and changing landscapes, Summerhaven appears almost unexpectedly among the forests of the Santa Catalina Mountains.
Located near the top of the Sky Island Scenic Byway, this small mountain community has long been a refuge from the heat of southern Arizona. Its cooler temperatures, forest setting, and relaxed atmosphere provide a welcome contrast to the desert below.
Summerhaven also carries a story of resilience. In 2003, the Aspen Fire swept through the Santa Catalina Mountains, causing significant damage to the community. Many homes and structures were lost, but Summerhaven rebuilt and continues to welcome visitors today.
For travelers, the town offers a chance to slow down before continuing toward Mount Lemmon. A stop at the Mt. Lemmon Cookie Cabin, a walk through the community, or simply enjoying the mountain air provides a reminder that the Sky Island Scenic Byway is more than a scenic drive.
It is a journey through landscapes, wildlife, and the communities that call these mountains home.
After climbing through desert, woodland, and forest environments, the Sky Island Scenic Byway finally reaches Mount Lemmon.
At 9,157 feet above sea level, the summit feels worlds away from the Sonoran Desert below. The saguaros and desert scrub have been replaced by pine forests, cooler temperatures, and an alpine landscape that seems almost impossible to find in southern Arizona.
That contrast is what makes this journey so remarkable. A traveler can begin the day surrounded by cactus and desert heat and later find themselves among mountain forests and crisp alpine air.
Near the summit, Mount Lemmon Ski Valley offers year-round opportunities to enjoy the mountain environment with winter snow transforming the area into Arizona’s southernmost ski destination.
But reaching the top is only part of the experience.
The true reward is remembering the journey that brought you there—the desert slowly disappearing below, the changing forests along the way, the overlooks that invited you to stop, and the unexpected wildlife encounter that became part of the story.
The Sky Island Scenic Byway is unforgettable not simply because of where it ends, but because of everything revealed along the way.
Why some journeys stay with us long after we reach the end
Some roads are memorable because of where they take us. Others stay with us because of what they reveal along the way.
The Sky Island Scenic Byway is one of those rare roads where the journey itself becomes the destination. A drive that begins among desert cactus and ends among alpine forests reminds us how much diversity can exist within a single landscape.
But the memories that last are not always the grand views. They are the moments between destinations—the breeze at Windy Point, the changing forests along the climb, the sound of birds in the trees, or the unexpected appearance of a white-nosed coati searching for its next meal.
After driving this road several times, I have learned that it never feels exactly the same twice. The seasons change, the light changes, and new discoveries wait around the next bend.
That is the gift of the Sky Island Scenic Byway. It invites us to slow down, look closer, and appreciate the remarkable connections between desert, mountain, wildlife, and the people who call these places home.
Some roads simply take us somewhere.
The Sky Island Scenic Byway reminds us to pay attention to how we get there.
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Editor’s note
This article was originally published in August 2026. Information reflects what was accurate at the time of writing. Conditions, access, and amenities may change over time, so please verify current details before planning your trip.
To maintain transparency and editorial independence, this website contains no ads, no sponsored content, and no affiliate links—just firsthand RV travel experiences and practical information for fellow travelers.
From Tucson, the Sky Island Scenic Byway climbs nearly 6,000 feet from desert floor to pine-covered peaks. Every turn invites you to slow down, pause, and notice the shifting landscapes along the way.
From the sun-baked streets of Tucson, the Sky Island Scenic Byway rises like a green sentinel above the desert floor, a winding ribbon of road climbing nearly 6,000 feet into alpine forests. Driving this route is more than a commute—it is an invitation to slow down, to notice, and to immerse yourself in the shifting landscapes and ecosystems that define Southern Arizona’s sky islands. Each turn of the road, each mile gained in elevation, offers new sights, scents, and sounds, reminding us that the journey is just as important as the destination.
In my previous article, On the Road to Mount Lemmon, I traced the ascent appreciating the transition from prickly Sonoran Desert to oak-studded foothills. In Mountain Island in a Desert Sea: Exploring Southern Arizona Sky Islands, I explored the broader concept of these isolated ecosystems and why they captivate travelers seeking connection with nature. This piece continues that journey emphasizing slow travel—pausing at each vista, wandering lightly through forests, and letting the rhythm of the mountain guide the experience.
A sky island journey: Savoring the shifts from desert to alpine
From desert heat to mountain peaks, one mile at a time
Climbing the Catalina Highway is like moving through a series of ecological postcards. Moving slowly is essential—not only for safety on the winding curves but also to savor each new habitat and each view that begs to be noticed.
The journey up the Sky Island Scenic Byway unfolds gradually revealing a changing world with every mile gained in elevation. It begins at Babad Do’ag Vista where the vast Sonoran Desert stretches endlessly below and the scale of the mountain ahead becomes clear. From here, the road climbs steadily into Molino Canyon where desert scrub gives way to oak and juniper and the sound of running water introduces a cooler, more sheltered landscape. As the ascent continues, Thimble Peak Vista offers dramatic views of rugged rock formations and distant ridgelines, a reminder of the geological forces that shaped this mountain range.
Farther along, Windy Point Vista opens to wide, sweeping views and a noticeable drop in temperature signaling the transition from desert to high country. The air grows crisper as you reach San Pedro Vista, one of the most expansive overlooks on the drive where the desert floor stretches far below and the sense of elevation becomes unmistakable. Continuing upward, the forest thickens near the Palisades Visitor Center where tall pines, interpretive displays, and shaded picnic areas mark a shift into a cooler, more alpine environment.
Beyond this point, the road winds into Summerhaven, a small mountain village tucked among the trees. Here, the pace naturally slows—inviting a walk through the village, a stop for coffee, or simply a moment to sit and take in the mountain air.
The final stretch leads to Mount Lemmon Ski Valley where alpine terrain and open skies complete the journey. By the time you reach the summit, the transition from desert to forest feels almost transformational—a reminder that this drive is not just a change in elevation but a gradual immersion into an entirely different world, best experienced at an unhurried pace.
Every stop along the Sky Island Scenic Byway is a reminder that slow travel transforms a drive into an experience. Move deliberately, pause frequently, and let the landscape guide your attention. From desert heat to alpine serenity, from the hum of creeks to the whisper of pine needles, each mile offers a deeper connection to the mountains and to the act of mindful travel itself.
Hiking and camping: Experiencing the Sky Islands on foot and under the stars
Hike, camp, and let the mountains speak
One of the most rewarding ways to experience the Sky Island Scenic Byway is to step off the road and onto the trail. Hiking here offers an intimate way to understand the dramatic ecological shifts that occur with every gain in elevation. Trails like the Babad Do’ag Trail provide sweeping desert views and a strong sense of place while the Molino Basin Trail follows gentler terrain through oak woodlands and seasonal waterways inviting a slower, more contemplative pace. As the road climbs, the Bug Spring Trail traces the mountain’s lower slopes where the air grows cooler and the open woodland carries the sounds of wind and birdsong instead of traffic. Each trail reveals a different layer of the mountain’s character rewarding those willing to explore on foot.
Camping along the Sky Island Scenic Byway extends this experience beyond daylight hours. Molino Basin Campground offers a quieter, lower-elevation setting where desert and woodland meet while Gordon Hirabayashi Campground provides shaded sites near riparian areas and trail access. Farther up the mountain, General Hitchcock and Rose Canyon campgrounds sit among tall pines and cooler temperatures ideal for summer escapes and stargazing. Whitetail Campground perched at higher elevation offers a more remote feel while Spencer Canyon Campground provides a peaceful forest setting for those seeking solitude.
Camping here allows the rhythm of the mountain to set the pace—cool mornings, warm afternoons and evenings filled with the sounds of wind in the trees and distant wildlife. Whether hiking a short trail or settling in for a night beneath the stars, these moments on the mountain deepen the connection to the land and embody the essence of slow travel: staying long enough to truly experience where you are.
The Sky Island Scenic Byway rewards those who move through it slowly. This is not a road meant to be rushed or conquered but one meant to be experienced mile by mile with time to step out of the car, follow a trail, or simply sit and observe. Hiking short sections of trail, lingering at scenic pullouts, and allowing space for unplanned moments all deepen the journey. The true richness of this drive reveals itself not in how far you go but in how closely you pay attention.
One of those moments unfolded at the Palisades Visitor Center perched at roughly 7,850 feet. While exploring the area, I encountered a white-nosed coati—a raccoon-like mammal with a long, expressive ringed tail—moving confidently through the forest. Often seen in small bands, this solitary individual was a reminder of the biodiversity that thrives in these sky islands. Coatis range from southeastern Arizona all the way through Central America and into South America, yet seeing one here in the cool mountain air felt like a quiet gift of the slow pace I had chosen. It was a moment that would have been easy to miss had I rushed through.
Opportunities like this are woven throughout the drive. Short hikes reveal hidden pockets of life. Pullouts become places to observe birds, watch shifting light, or simply listen to the wind moving through the pines. Camping in the surrounding national forest extends the experience even further allowing the day to stretch into evening and morning when wildlife is most active and the mountains are at their most peaceful.
This is what slow travel looks like along the Sky Island Scenic Byway: not a checklist of stops, but a gradual unfolding of place. By giving the road your time—by walking a little farther, waiting a little longer, and looking a little closer—you gain something far richer than a destination. You gain a deeper connection to the land itself, shaped by elevation, ecology, and the quiet rhythms of the mountain.
Traveling the Sky Island Scenic Byway reminds us that the true reward of the journey isn’t found in how quickly we arrive but in how deeply we pay attention along the way. As writer Eddie Cantor once observed, “Slow down and enjoy life. It’s not only the scenery you miss by going too fast—you miss the sense of where you’re going and why.” Nowhere does that sentiment feel more true than on this mountain road where every curve reveals a new layer of landscape and meaning.
Moving slowly allows the land to speak. At a quiet overlook, in the shade of a pine, or beside a trail where wildlife still moves freely, the mountains offer their own language. As Rachel Carson so beautifully wrote, “Take time to listen to the voices of the earth and what they mean…the majestic voice of thunder, the winds, the sound of flowing streams. And the voices of living things.”Along the Sky Island Scenic Byway those voices are everywhere—wind moving through the high forests, birds calling across canyons, and the subtle rustle of life just beyond the trail.
This is the gift of slow travel: the chance to move beyond seeing and into truly noticing. Whether pausing to watch a coati pass through the trees, hiking a quiet stretch of trail, or simply sitting with the view as the light changes, the journey becomes less about the destination and more about connection. In slowing down, the mountains reveal not only their beauty but their wisdom—inviting us to listen, to learn, and to travel with intention.
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Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in February 2026. Information reflects what was accurate at the time of writing. For topics that may change quickly, please verify current details before planning. To ensure honesty and avoid bias, this website features no ads, no sponsored content, and no affiliate links—just straightforward information for fellow travelers.
Tucson is a unique city where the natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert blends seamlessly with the vibrant charm of the Wild West. It is renowned for its sunny climate, diverse desert landscapes, and rich cultural heritage rooted in its Southwestern history.
Tucson, Arizona, is a captivating blend of rugged desert landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant outdoor adventures making it a must-visit destination in the American Southwest. Nestled against the backdrop of the Santa Catalina Mountains and home to the iconic Saguaro National Park, this UNESCO City of Gastronomy offers everything from hiking scenic trails and cycling quirky landmarks like the Rattlesnake Bridge to immersing yourself in the Wild West at Old Tucson theme park.
In October with mild 80°F days and post-monsoon greenery, it’s an ideal time to explore treasures like the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, savor Sonoran cuisine on Historic Fourth Avenue, or camp under starry skies at Catalina State Park’s RV-friendly sites. Tucson’s unique mix of natural splendor and frontier spirit promises an unforgettable escape for adventurers and culture seekers alike.
Straddling Tucson’s east and west sides, Saguaro National Park is a 92,000-acre shrine to the Sonoran Desert’s majesty split into the Tucson Mountain District (West) and Rincon Mountain District (East). The park’s namesake saguaro cacti soaring up to 40 feet and living over 150 years create a surreal landscape dotted with javelinas, roadrunners, and vibrant sunsets.
The West District’s Bajada Loop Drive (6 miles, gravel) offers stunning vistas in 30-45 minutes while the East’s Cactus Forest Loop Drive (8 miles, paved) suits cyclists and drivers alike. Whether hiking the short Desert Discovery Nature Trail (0.5 miles, paved) or soaking in ancient petroglyphs at Signal Hill, the park blends accessibility with raw wilderness making it a must-visit near Tucson’s Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum.
For adventurers, Saguaro’s 165+ miles of trails cater to all levels from the family-friendly Freeman Homestead Trail (1 mile, East) to the strenuous Tanque Verde Ridge Trail (6-20 miles, East) with sweeping ridge views.
A rich blend of Native American, Spanish, Mexican, and American frontier cultures
Located in Southern Arizona, Tucson was founded on August 20, 1775—an event celebrated annually at Tucson’s birthday party, La Fiesta de San Agustín. But people had long before feeling something special here and made it their home. In fact, the area we call Tucson is one of the oldest continually inhabited areas in North America.
Hohokam Indians lived and farmed here for 4,000 years before Spanish missionaries and soldiers arrived in the late 1600s and established local landmarks such as the Presidio San Agustín del Tucson and the Mission San Xavier del Bac—the two most iconic and historic structures in the region. “The Old Pueblo,” as the adobe-walled Presidio became known, remains one of Tucson’s nicknames to this day.
Following its independence from Spain, it fell under Mexico’s rule in 1821 until the U.S. bought all of Arizona south of the Gila River from Mexico as part of the Gadsden Purchase on June 8, 1854 and Tucson officially became a part of the United States of America. During what is commonly referred to as the “Old West” era (1860 to 1880) Tucson was the battleground of many clashes between cattle ranchers, settlers, miners, and the Apache Indians.
Situated within the Sonoran Desert and surrounded by mountain ranges
Tucson is situated in the eastern portion of Pima County, Arizona in one of the lushest valleys found in the Sonoran Desert. Surrounded by five unique mountain ranges, opportunities for outdoor exploration are endless. A quick drive along the Catalina Highway-Sky Island National Scenic Byway can take you from the lower elevations of the valley floor to the summit of Mt. Lemmon at 9,157 feet. In roughly an hour this scenic drive traverses seven of the world’s nine life zones—the span of ecosystems you’d see driving from Mexico to Canada.
The city is bordered on all sides by protected natural areas: Coronado National Forest, Catalina State Park, Ironwood Forest National Monument, and Saguaro National Parks East and West (the best places to see the giant saguaro cactus native only to Southern Arizona and Native Mexico).
Because of the variety of terrain and proximity to protected areas and parks Tucson is widely considered one of the world’s best destinations for activities such as hiking, cycling, rock climbing, horseback riding, and just about anything else you would want to do outdoors.
Desert beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventure
Unlike Saguaro’s reputation, Tucson, Arizona, has much to see and do. Deemed the “soul of the Sonoran Desert,” its rich heritage is embedded in many city features and attractions—from cultural and historical sites to restaurants that boast “America’s best Mexican food.”
While there are many options for activities and fun things to do, some quintessential Tucson experiences will make your trip more memorable than others.
Explore the desert oasis: Sabino Canyon Recreation Area
Hiking, biking, swimming, and narrated shuttle tours
Tucked at the base of the Santa Catalina Mountains on Tucson’s northeast edge, Sabino Canyon Recreation Area is a stunning urban escape within Coronado National Forest blending rugged desert canyons, seasonal waterfalls, and diverse wildlife into one of the city’s top outdoor gems. Spanning 37 miles of trails and roads, it’s perfect for hiking, biking, or a narrated tram ride—especially now with hints of fall colors.
Access it at 5700 N Sabino Canyon Rd, about 14 miles from downtown—plan for crowds on weekends.
Tucked at the base of the Santa Catalina Mountains just 9 miles north of Tucson, Catalina State Park spans 5,500 acres of desert splendor offering a Wild West escape with RV camping as a standout feature. The park’s 120 electric/water hookup sites (30/50 amp) cater to RVs up to 40 feet complete with modern restrooms, hot showers, and a dump station making it a top pick for overnighters.
Explore 120 miles of trails like the 0.8-mile Romero Ruins Trail to Hohokam relics or the strenuous 14.4-mile Romero Canyon Trail to seasonal pools. Cyclists love the 8-mile 50K Loop and guided horseback rides weave through saguaro-studded vistas teeming with bobcats and 170+ bird species.
Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum: A living desert showcase
Combines a zoo, botanical garden, natural history museum, and art gallery
Nestled near Saguaro National Park West, the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum (2021 N Kinney Rd, Tucson) is a 98-acre celebration of the Sonoran Desert blending zoo, botanical garden, aquarium, and museum into an immersive outdoor experience. Explore 2 miles of trails showcasing 230 animal species—like mountain lions, javelinas, and hummingbirds—and 1,200+ plant types including cacti.
Highlights include the Raptor Free Flight (October-February) where hawks soar overhead and interactive stingray touch pools. With 85 percent of the museum outdoors, fall’s cooler temps enhance visits to paved, ADA-accessible paths while evening Cool Summer Nights (June-Aug) or upcoming BooFest (October) add unique vibes.
Shop & dine on the Historic Fourth Avenue
A vibrant and eclectic district
Nestled between downtown Tucson and the University of Arizona, Historic Fourth Avenue (often called “4th Ave”) is a vibrant, walkable mile-long stretch of funky boutiques, vintage shops, and casual eateries that embodies the city’s “keep it weird” spirit. With over 140 locally owned businesses—many women-owned and community-focused—this district blends historic charm (dating back to the 1916 underpass construction) with modern flair including colorful murals and love lock sculptures.
It’s a Bohemian spot surrounded by historical landmarks and neighborhoods:
West University Historic District (north): Next to the western campus of the University of Arizona, it is known for its historical houses
Historic Train Depot/Southern Arizona Transportation Museum (south): An interactive museum showcasing the abundant railroad era of Tucson
Iron Horse Expansion Historic District (east): An artistic neighborhood with a shared history with the train depot
Warehouse Arts District (west): An art space that was once the former distribution center of Tucson in the early 20th century
Tucson’s UNESCO City of Gastronomy: A culinary desert oasis
Native ingredients such as chiltepins, cholla buds, tepary beans, prickly pear syrup, mesquite flour, and White Sonoran wheat
In 2015, Tucson, Arizona, earned the prestigious designation as the first UNESCO City of Gastronomy in the United States, a nod to its 4,000-year culinary heritage rooted in Native American, Mexican, and Sonoran Desert influences. This vibrant food scene celebrated for its innovation and sustainability complements Tucson’s natural attractions like Saguaro National Park and Catalina State Park making it a must-explore for foodies.
Tucson’s gastronomy shines through its use of indigenous ingredients like tepary beans, mesquite flour, and prickly pear paired with a rich Mexican-American culinary tradition. The city’s 350+ sunny days fuel year-round farmers’ markets like the Santa Cruz River Farmers’ Market (Thursdays, 3-6 pm) showcasing local produce. Over 50 restaurants, many on Fourth Avenue, serve Sonoran-style dishes—think chimichangas (invented here) and carne asada tacos—while food festivals like the Tucson Tamale & Heritage Festival (fall) highlight diversity.
See cool art on the Tucson Loop Trail
Integration of art with nature
In Tucson, art is an adventure. The city is home to a 137-mile open-space gallery, the Tucson Loop Trail (for car-free cycling). It features 63 artworks and sculptures by various artists. The scenic route also showcases the city’s quaint neighborhoods and desert landscapes including green parks and dry riverbeds or washes.
Start at Rillito for the mural bonanza then loop south to Santa Cruz (20-mile round trip). Use the tucsonloop.org interactive map for real-time updates. The 12-mile Rillito River Park section boasts more than three dozen pieces including labyrinths and memorials. Access is from St. Philip’s Plaza or Campbell Ave.
Saddle up for the Wild West at Old Tucson Theme Park
Immersive Wild West experience
Step back into the dusty streets of the 1880s at Old Tucson, Arizona’s iconic Wild West entertainment park and historic movie studio nestled between Saguaro National Park West and Tucson Mountain Park just 15 minutes west of downtown Tucson (201 S Kinney Rd). Built in 1939 as a film set for classics like Gunfight at the O.K. Corral, Rio Bravo, and Tombstone, it opened as a theme park in 1960 and has hosted over 400 productions featuring legends like John Wayne, Clint Eastwood, and Elvis Presley (check out his non-singing Western Charro! filmed here in 1969).
Today, it’s a family-friendly haven for immersive Wild West adventures complete with stunt shows, shoot-outs, and period sets—though note that the original studio burned down in 1995 and the rebuilt version keeps the spirit alive with modern twists.
Walk or cycle along the Rattlesnake Bridge
Walk through the body of the snake with its distinctive scales and visible ribs
Tucked into Tucson’s eastside urban-desert fringe, the Rattlesnake Bridge (aka Diamondback Bridge or Snake Bridge) is a 280-foot-long pedestrian and cyclist marvel spanning Broadway Boulevard at the Barraza Aviation Parkway—connecting Iron Horse Park to the Aviation Bikeway.
Completed in 2002 and designed by artist Simon Donovan, this functional public art installation mimics a massive western diamondback rattlesnake complete with a gaping mouth entrance, segmented belly mesh, and a 30-foot rattling tail that once startled passersby with hidden speakers (though those are now silent due to maintenance cuts). It’s a quirky highlight on the Aviation Bikeway (part of Tucson’s 150+ miles of bike paths) and a quick detour from The Loop blending whimsy with safety for crossing the busy six-lane road.
The bridge isn’t just a crossing—it’s an immersive snake “tunnel” where you enter through shiny steel fangs, traverse a ribbed, painted body (in authentic diamondback hues of tan, brown, and diamond patterns), and exit via the coiled tail. It’s wide (12 feet) and gently curved for views with chain-link sides for safety and breeze—perfect for families, commuters, or photo ops.
Spring and fall provide the ideal balance of weather, scenery, and events
The best time to visit Tucson is October to April when mild weather (60-85°F) and vibrant events make it ideal for outdoor adventures and cultural immersion. Spring (March-April) stands out for wildflower blooms in Saguaro National Park and Catalina with highs of 70-80°F and lows around 50°F perfect for hiking trails like Romero Ruins or biking the Rattlesnake Bridge.
Fall (October-November) offers similar temps, post-monsoon greenery, and festivals like the All Souls Procession (early November). Winter (December-February) brings cooler 60-70°F days, ideal for RV camping under starry skies. Summer (May-September) hits 90-100°F+, best for indoor attractions like the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum or early morning Sabino Canyon tram rides though monsoon rains (July-August) can spark waterfalls. Avoid peak heat if hiking; otherwise, Tucson’s 350 sunny days a year ensure year-round appeal—spring and fall edge out for comfort and vibrancy.
Tucson: A Desert Gem for All Seasons
A captivating desert destination no matter when you visit
Tucson’s blend of natural wonders and cultural riches makes it a year-round destination but the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum encapsulates its essence best offering a vibrant window into the Sonoran Desert’s wildlife and flora. Whether you’re hiking Catalina State Park’s trails, cycling the quirky Rattlesnake Bridge, or stepping into the Wild West at Old Tucson, the city’s diverse attractions shine brightest from October to April with mild 60-85°F weather ideal for outdoor adventures.
Fall’s gentle arrival enhances visits from RV camping under starry skies to savoring Sonoran tacos on Historic Fourth Avenue. With its unique mix of desert beauty, history, and quirky charm, Tucson invites exploration—pair the museum with a sunset at Saguaro National Park for an unforgettable finale to your desert journey.
Please note: This article was first published October 2025. Articles apply to the date they were written. Please refer to current information for quickly changing subjects.
Worth Pondering…
Tucson had opened my eyes to the world and given me… a taste for the sensory extravagance of red hot chiles and five-alarm sunsets.
Arizona offers a variety of breathtaking scenic drives that showcase the state’s diverse landscapes. Despite what HGTV suggests, the Grand Canyon State offers numerous routes that are must-see drives for any road trip enthusiast.
A new HGTV list purports to feature the 25 best road trips but not a single Arizona scenic drive was included. The list runs the gamut, highlighting several California, Florida, and Colorado roads but also featuring less known options in New Mexico, South Dakota, and Montana.
“As for the destination, these fan-favorite routes are packed with must-dos,” the HGTV article says. “But more importantly, these popular drives (and detours) feature sights you’d miss if you took the most direct route.”
Not to dump on the Midwest, but a Kansas road trip made the list for its “views of flat prairie.” Yet, Arizona’s roads with stunning red rock formations, unexpectedly pastoral or high mountain views, and otherworldly desert drives didn’t make the list.
The route winds through stunning red sandstone formations
Roadway: State Route 179
Length: 8 miles
Points of interest: Bell Rock, Courthouse Butte, Cathedral Rock, Chapel of the Holy Cross
The Red Rock All-American Road, also known as State Route 179, is a 7.5-mile scenic byway in Arizona recognized as an All-American Road by the Federal Highway Administration for its exceptional natural, recreational, and scenic qualities. It serves as the gateway to Sedona’s famous Red Rock Country.
The route winds through stunning red rock formations such as Bell Rock, Cathedral Rock, and Courthouse Butte, passing through the Village of Oak Creek and continuing into Sedona within the Coconino National Forest. The byway offers numerous scenic pullouts for photography, hiking and biking opportunities including trails of varying difficulty levels. Notable stops along the route include the Chapel of the Holy Cross, an architecturally remarkable chapel built into the red rock buttes, and Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village, a charming arts and shopping area on the banks of Oak Creek
The Apache Trail, officially Arizona State Route 88, is a 42-mile scenic drive through the Superstition Mountains and Tonto National Forest linking Apache Junction with Roosevelt Lake. Named after the Apache Indians who used it as a migratory path for over 1,000 years, it was built in 1903-1905 as a supply road for the construction of Roosevelt Dam.
The trail starts paved from Apache Junction to just past Tortilla Flat (milepost 220) then becomes a winding, mostly unpaved road with steep cliffs, sharp curves, and minimal safety barriers making it unsuitable for RVs. It passes stunning desert landscapes including saguaro forests, Canyon Lake, Apache Lake, and Roosevelt Lake, as well as historic sites like Goldfield Ghost Town, Lost Dutchman State Park, and Tonto National Monument. The stretch from Fish Creek Hill to Apache Lake is particularly scenic but challenging with a 1,500-foot descent over three miles.
A 5-mile section from Fish Creek Vista (milepost 222) to near Reavis Trailhead Road (milepost 227) was closed from 2019 to 2024 due to damage from the Woodbury Fire and flooding but has reopened after a $4 million interim repair by the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT). While ADOT recommends high-clearance 4×4 vehicles, recent reports indicate the graded dirt road is manageable for most passenger cars if driven cautiously.
The Sky Island Parkway National Scenic Byway, also known as the Catalina Highway, is a 27.2-mile scenic route that begins on the east side of Tucson and climbs through the Coronado National Forest to the summit area of Mount Lemmon in the Santa Catalina Mountains.
This byway is renowned for its dramatic elevation gain of over 6,000 feet, starting among giant saguaro cacti in the Sonoran Desert and ascending to shady conifer forests near 9,000 feet allowing travelers to experience a remarkable variety of ecosystems and climates—akin to driving from Mexico to Canada in just 27 miles. The route offers spectacular vistas including overlooks like Babad Do’ag Vista, Aspen Vista, and Windy Point Vista where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the desert and the “sky islands” which are isolated mountain ranges rising from the desert floor.
The byway provides numerous recreational opportunities such as hiking, camping, mountain biking, horseback riding, and in winter, alpine skiing at the Mount Lemmon Ski Valley, the southernmost ski area in the continental US.
The Jerome-Clarkdale-Cottonwood Historic Road is a 10-mile scenic byway along Arizona State Route 89A that connects three historic towns rich in mining and cultural history.
Starting in Jerome, visitors can explore the Jerome Historic District and the Jerome State Historical Park’s Douglas Mansion which highlights the area’s copper mining past. Jerome is known for its arts and crafts scene and dramatic switchbacks on the road descending from the town offering expansive views of the Verde Valley.
Traveling onward to Clarkdale, the route passes the Tuzigoot National Monument, an ancient Sinagua pueblo overlooking the Verde River and the Verde Canyon Railroad, a scenic train ride through the surrounding countryside. Clarkdale itself was a master-planned town built to support the copper mining operations in Jerome and retains a historic downtown area.
The road continues to Old Town Cottonwood, known for its historic district, boutiques, antique shops, and Dead Horse Ranch State Park.
The Arizona Department of Transportation also maintains a list of scenic roads. Here are nine other uniquely Arizona offerings:
1. Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Drive (US Route 89A)
The drive features towering red rock cliffs, lush oak canopies, and eventually tall Ponderosa pines as you ascend
Location: Sedona to Flagstaff
Highlights: This 14-mile route winds through a lush canyon with red rock cliffs, oak-lined streams, and switchbacks. Slide Rock State Park is a must-stop for natural water slides.
Distance: ~14 miles
Tips: Fall for vibrant foliage. Parking at Slide Rock fills fast
2. Vermilion Cliffs Scenic Highway (US Route 89A)
A low-traffic drive through some of Arizona’s most dramatic and less-visited landscapes
Location: Marble Canyon to Jacob Lake
Highlights: This 80-mile drive showcases the Vermilion Cliffs’ vibrant hues, Navajo Bridge over the Colorado River, and access to Lee’s Ferry. The road climbs to Kaibab Plateau forests.
Distance: ~80 miles
Tips: Remote; limited services. Ideal for accessing North Rim Grand Canyon
3. Coronado Trail Scenic Byway (US Route 191)
The route follows the path taken by Spanish explorer Francisco Vasquez de Coronado in 1540
Location: From Springerville to Clifton in eastern Arizona
Highlights: Known as the “Devil’s Highway,” this 123-mile route descends through the White Mountains offers alpine forests, meadows, and the dramatic Mogollon Rim. Expect 460 curves, minimal traffic, and views of Blue Vista.
A rewarding drive for nature lovers, birdwatchers, wine enthusiasts
Location: Loop from Patagonia to Sonoita, southeast of Tucson
Highlights: This 30-mile drive winds through rolling grasslands, vineyards, and oak-studded hills. Patagonia Lake State Park and Sonoita’s wineries are key stops. Views of the Santa Rita Mountains are stunning.
Distance: ~30 miles
Tips: Spring for wildflowers. Visit Patagonia for birdwatching
The drive features steep climbs and descents with many curves and switchbacks
Location: Between Globe and Show Low
Highlights: This 40-mile stretch descends into the dramatic Salt River Canyon often called the “Mini Grand Canyon.” Expect rugged cliffs, river views, and desert flora. The Apache Gold Casino and pullouts offer great photo stops.
Distance: ~40 miles
Tips: Steep grades; drive cautiously. Best in spring or fall for mild weather.
6. North Rim Parkway (State Route 67)
Scenic drive that connects Jacob Lake to the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park
Location: From Jacob Lake to the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park
Highlights: This 44-mile drive passes through Kaibab National Forest’s meadows and aspen groves, leading to the quieter North Rim. Viewpoints like Point Imperial and Cape Royal offer epic canyon vistas.
Distance: ~44 miles
Tips: Open mid-May to mid-October due to snow. Park entry fee required.
7. Gila-Pinal Scenic Road (State Route 77)
The route showcases a blend of desert, mountain, and riparian ecosystems
Location: From Globe to Winkelman, southeast of Phoenix
Highlights: This 35-mile route winds through the Tonto National Forest, with views of the Pinal Mountains, saguaro cacti, and the Gila River Valley. The historic mining town of Globe offers a charming stop.
Distance: ~35 miles
Tips: Spring for wildflowers. Limited services; fuel up in Globe.
8. Black Hills Backcountry Byway (State Route 87 to Bush Highway)
Scenic, historic, and moderately rugged drive
Location: From Payson to the Salt River, near Phoenix
Highlights: This 60-mile drive descends from pine-covered Mogollon Rim to the Sonoran Desert. Highlights include Tonto Natural Bridge State Park and the Salt River’s sparkling waters. Saguaro Lake is a great stop for boating or picnics.
Distance: ~60 miles
Tips: Best in spring or fall. Watch for wildlife; narrow sections require caution.
9. Desert View Drive (South Rim, Grand Canyon)
The drive hugs the South Rim and includes 9 named viewpoints
Highlights: This 25-mile drive along the South Rim offers jaw-dropping Grand Canyon vistas at points like Mather Point, Yavapai Point, and Desert View Watchtower. Sunset views are spectacular.
Distance: ~25 miles
Tips: Park entry fee required. Crowded in summer; arrive early.
10. Swift Trail (State Route 366)
A mountain road that climbs from the desert floor to Mount Graham reaching elevations around 9,000 feet
Location: Near Safford, ascending Mount Graham in the Pinaleño Mountains
Highlights: This 36-mile road climbs from desert scrub to pine forests, offering panoramic views of the Gila Valley. Highlights include Wet Canyon Bridge and heliograph lookout towers. The upper section is unpaved.
Distance: ~36 miles
Tips: High-clearance vehicles for upper parts. Closed in winter above 7,400 feet.
To my mind these live oak-dotted hills fat with side oats grama, these pine-clad mesas spangled with flowers, these lazy trout streams burbling along under great sycamores and cottonwoods, come near to being the cream of creation.
These scenic Arizona mountain road trip itineraries like the Apache Trail and the Catalina Highway offer breathtaking views of stunning mountainous terrain and imposing peaks along the way
Home to the top visitor attraction in the US (Grand Canyon) Arizona is consistently a traveler’s favorite. With many beautiful hikes in Arizona along with iconic cities like Phoenix and Tucson, adventurous towns like Sedona with its sacred vortex spots, it’s no wonder the state drew in over 40 million visitors a year.
A fantastic way to see more of Arizona in one go, is an RV road trip. Heck, even a lot of the best stops on the iconic Route 66 are in Arizona! The basis of many unforgettable road trip ideas in the U.S., Arizona’s landscape diversity makes it worth exploring on wheels.
From arid deserts to towering red rocks and glistening lakes like the amazing Lake Powell as well as the majestic Superstitions and Catalina Mountains, the state boasts awe-inspiring samples of Mother Nature’s finest work. The latter, however, might sometimes get overlooked; the cacti-decorated landscapes, mighty red rocks, and gorgeous desert towns of Arizona tend to get all the attention, after all, and Arizona certainly doesn’t lack desert road trips, either.
From those in the Grand Canyon area, Saguaro National Park, and the Petrified Forest to peaks that serve as backdrops for a multitude of ghost towns, there are a lot of stunning mountains in Arizona to see on a road trip. Be it the Apache Trail showing off the Superstition Mountains or the Red Rock Scenic Byway’s vistas of Sedona and Red Rock Country, choosing any one of these scenic Arizona road trips with mountains en route is a choice for the bucket list.
Drive 39 miles to witness the stunning beauty of the Superstition Mountains and Tonto National Forest
The Apache Trail (Arizona State Route 88) is a 39-mile scenic byway starts in Apache Junction and ends at Theodore Roosevelt Dam. The historic trail offers amazing views of craggy gorges, arid landscapes, and dazzling lakes as it winds through the Superstition Mountains and Tonto National Forest.
Major picturesque locations along this stretch include Goldfield Ghost Town, Canyon Lake, Apache Lake, and Tortilla Flat. Some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the entire West are on this route, making it one of the most scenic road trips in Arizona.
Note: Sections of Apache Trail are closed pending further notice. The Forest Service states the section between milepost 220 and milepost 229 is indefinitely closed.
Drive 24 miles to see red-rock deserts, rainbow-colored sandstone cliffs, and unique rock formations
The Sedona-Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Road was designated by the Arizona Department of Transportation on August 24, 1984. This route follows US 89A through the scenic canyon made popular in the 1920s when it was discovered by Hollywood. This scenic road offers a rare opportunity to study a variety of elements within a short distance.
The road traverses seven major plant communities as a result of elevation changes, temperature variation, and precipitation. It begins near the town of Sedona and runs in a northerly direction through Oak Creek Canyon to the top of the Mogollon Rim traveling areas rich with geologic formations similar to the Grand Canyon.
Roadway: Arizona State Route 89A
Driving distance: 14.5 miles
Approximate driving time: Take about an hour to fully enjoy this road
Scenic attractions: Oak Creek Vista, Grasshopper Point, West Fork Oak Creek Trail, Slide Rock State Park
One of the most beautiful drives in Arizona is the Joshua Forest Parkway also known as Scenic Route 93
The Joshua Forest Scenic Road was designated on April 20, 1992 by the Arizona Department of Transportation. Along the route is the backdrop of rugged mountain ranges, the Hualapai Mountains and Aquarius Cliffs. The road winds through granite formations and by many creeks and rivers.
The main sources of water in the area are the Big Sandy River, Burro Creek, and Santa Maria River. The road then goes through a large boulder field. From the Santa Maria River the road enters the Joshua Forest Parkway which is lined with Joshua trees.
Roadway: US 93
Driving distance: 54 miles
Approximate driving time: Allow about an hour, more if you want to stop along the way
Scenic attractions: Hassayampa River Preserve, Desert Caballeros Western Museum, Historic Wickenburg, Wikieup Trading Post
A 10-mile route on State Highway 89A that connects three historic towns in Arizona
The Jerome, Clarkdale, Cottonwood Historic Road was designated on May 13, 1992 by the Arizona Department of Transportation. The Tuzigoot National Monument which can be seen over looking the Verde River from the road was the site of a Sinagua village between 1125 and 1400. Prior to the Sinagua, the Hohokam was known to live in the area.
Several of the towns along the road are on the National Register of Historic sites including Jerome and Clarkdale. The distinct combination of visual patterns in the historic sites, riparian vegetation, mines, ancient Indian dwellings and the Black Hills/Mingus Mountain make this drive a memorable experience.
Roadway: Arizona State Route 89A
Driving distance: 10 miles
Approximate driving time: Take about an hour to fully enjoy this road
Red Rock Scenic Byway is an eight mile road that winds through Sedona’s Red Rock Country. Travelers are amazed by the high desert’s power, diversity, and sense of intimacy with nature. Inhabited for thousands of years, the stunning red rocks are alive with a timeless spirit that captivates and inspires.
Roadway: Arizona State Route 179
Driving distance: 8 miles
Approximate driving time: Take 20 minutes to drive but allow several hours to include all activities along the byway
Scenic attractions: Bell Rock/Courthouse Butte/Spaceship Rock, Cathedral Rock, Chapel of the Holy Cross
This scenic road consists of two roads in the Navajo Nation from Chinle east to the New Mexico border and from Lupton north through Window Rock to the New Mexico border. Ancient ruins, museums, and other attractions are found along the way.
Drive 27 miles to enjoy the breathtaking scenery of Mount Lemmon and the Santa Catalina Mountains
The Catalina Highway often known as the Sky Island Scenic Byway and Mount Lemmon Highway runs from Tucson to the southernmost ski field in the US, Mount Lemmon Ski Valley. Start your journey among giant saguaro cacti of the Sonoran desert and climb to shady conifer forests at nearly 9,000 feet passing biological diversity equivalent to a drive from Mexico to Canada in just 27 miles. Enjoy spectacular views and recreational opportunities from hiking and camping to picnicking and skiing.
Roadway: Arizona Forest Highway 39
Driving distance: 27 miles
Approximate driving time: Plan for three to six hours to drive, including backtracking.
Drive 87 miles and enjoy amazing views of Salt River Canyon and imposing peaks
This classic Arizona scenic drive beginning in Globe and ending in Show Low is well worth taking because of the amazing landscape and the exhilarating thrills it offers with its winding, steep stretch. Plus, in addition to mountain scenery the journey is considered one of the many scenic canyon road trips in Arizona as it heads to the striking Salt River Canyon.
Starting at the intersection of US Routes 60 and 70 in Globe, this scenic mountain Arizona road trip route takes US Route 60 northeast across undulating terrain. Later on, it drops into the magnificent Salt River Canyon, which provides sweeping vistas of rocky outcrops, meandering rivers, and vibrant rock formations.
The canyon, one of the most incredible places in Arizona is about 40 miles from Globe where there are many other scenic stops in route such as the ghost town of Seneca. In Salt River Canyon Wilderness Area, a pair of bridges—a modern vehicle bridge and a historic pedestrian bridge—span the river and look awe-striking. Of course, there are many more canyons in Arizona besides the Grand Canyon and Salt River Canyon for those hoping for more adventures.
Roadway: Arizona Forest Highway 39
Driving distance: 87 miles
Approximate driving time: approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
Scenic attractions: Globe, Salt River Wilderness, Salt River Canyon Rest Area, Seneca, Show Low
Drive 86 miles to experience the amazing scenery of lush woodland forests and ancient red rock formations
With views of both old red rock formations and lush woodland trees, the Fredonia-Vermillion Cliffs Scenic Highway or US-89A is one of Arizona’s most scenic mountain road trips. This 85.5-mile road trip begins in Fredonia on the Utah-Arizona border and ends in Bitter Springs, Arizona.
The meandering route is among Arizona’s most scenic road trips with iconic, beautiful landmarks offering a swift transition from dry scrubby shrubs to oak and aspen trees and revealing the state’s natural beauty along the way.
The drive without pauses takes around 1.5 hours although breaks are necessary to appreciate the grandeur of man-made marvels like the Navajo Bridge that spans the Colorado River and natural wonders such as the Vermillion Cliffs, Pasture Canyon Lookout, and Marble Canyon.
Roadway: US Highway 89A
Driving distance: 85 miles
Approximate driving time: approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
To my mind these live oak-dotted hills fat with side oats grama, these pine-clad mesas spangled with flowers, these lazy trout streams burbling along under great sycamores and cottonwoods, come near to being the cream of creation.
Arizona offers an abundance of scenic byways perfect for road trips allowing travelers to experience the state’s diverse landscapes and natural beauty
Located in the Southwest, Arizona, also known as the Grand Canyon State, is a perfect destination for travelers who want to soak up beautiful scenery. It has an open and vast landmass and enjoys an arid climate in most parts of the state. Since it is among the four corners of the country, it shares its borders with Utah, California, Nevada, New Mexico, and Mexico.
The Grand Canyon is the state’s most visited and most popular attraction. But the state has plenty of other things that can be as fun and entertaining. It is filled with mountains, plateaus, rivers, mesa, national parks, national forests, state parks, and museums.
An RV road trip is one of the best ways to explore the state. Here are 10 scenic byways in Arizona that are perfect for a road trip.
Experience the iconic Mother Road in Arizona from the Colorado River through Oatman, Kingman, and Petrified Forest to exit 23 on I-40
Historic Route 66 is the Mother Road of America. It has been used in TV shows, songs, and novels and is considered America’s most famous historic highway. The section that goes through Arizona is quite impressive.
There are several attractions along the way including Oatman, Jack Rabbit Trading Post, and Petrified Forest National Park. The road enters Arizona at the Colorado River to Oatman and Kingman and its terminus is exit 23 on Interstate 40.
Distance: 358 miles
Best time to go: Late spring, early summer, and early fall
The Apache Trail is a 39-mile scenic byway with historic roots dating back to the Wild West era in Arizona
Arizona has so many scenic byways and the Apache Trail is not only stunning but also historic. It follows an old stagecoach trail near Phoenix into the Superstition Mountains. It is a drivable trail but sections are unpaved and not suitable for larger vehicles. Apache Trail is one of the best Arizona road trips with majestic mountain views.
While damage from the Woodbury Fire and floods in 2019 which triggered a massive landslide still blocks part of the route, the Arizona Department of Transportation this year repaired the Apache Trail up to Fish Creek Vista turning an already scenic road into a day trip with a panoramic payoff.
Drive through forests up Mount Lemmon near Tucson stopping to hike and take in beautiful views
Climbing to over 9,000 feet with a nearly 7,000-foot elevation change in a mere 24 miles, the Catalina Highway (also called the Mount Lemmon Highway and Sky Island Scenic Byway) is a brilliant ascent with countless curves, numerous vistas, and three major switchbacks. The best news is since there’s only one paved road up this mountain when you reach the top, you’ll have no choice but to turn around and let gravity assist in your descent.
Most of the road passes through Coronado National Forest and travelers can camp and hike in many areas. With every turn, passengers get to see beautiful rock formations. Stop at Windy Point, The Forest Service Ranger, and Mount Lemmon for incredible hiking.
Another brilliant bit of rapidly rising mountain two-lane is AZ-89A from Prescott Valley to Cottonwood. You’ll climb over 2,000 feet on this 31-mile stretch of tight bends and switchbacks through the Mingus Mountain area.
Those wanting to obey the multitude of 15, 20, and 25 mph curve signs (certainly you among them) have plenty of scenic turn-offs. Go on a weekday. Tourists own this road on weekends as the old mining town of Jerome is quite the destination and 89A is the one road there.
Red Rock Scenic Byway winds through Sedona’s Red Rock Country, often called a “museum without walls”
The fifteen-mile stretch of State Route 179 from Interstate 17 (Exit 298) is the primary route that millions of tourists use to visit Sedona, a premier world destination. Visitors winding their way along this route are treated to one of the more incredible scenic drives in America.
The Red Rock Scenic Byway is a tourist attraction onto itself. Many will claim that the natural beauty along this winding road is unparalleled anywhere else in the nation.
Sweeping vistas of rocky outcrops, meandering rivers, and vibrant rock formations
In the middle of the 32,000 acres that are the Salt River Canyon Wilderness, State Route 60 is a narrow ribbon buckling through the harsh terrain. By starting in Apache Junction you’ll traverse the 1,200-foot-long Queen Creek Tunnel cutting through the mountain at a 6 percent upward +grade.
Next you’ll climb 4,000 feet via tight bends, S-curves, and the three consecutive switchbacks plunging into the canyon. The first half of this trip twists through the Tonto National Forest with views of the Superstition Mountains—the second half winds through the more brutal terrain of the Fort Apache Reservation where you’ll chase the Salt River for a while. Here, the canyon dictates the road. There shouldn’t be a lot of traffic, so it’s good for a scenic drive.
Spend time exploring Boyce Thompson Arboretum, Superior, Miami-Globe, and Besh Ba Gowah Archaeological Park before continuing onto San Carlos Reservation with stops at Apache Gold Casino and RV Park and Peridot Mesa, a broad hump of land often ablaze with poppy fields starting in late February and carrying on through March.
Traverse varied terrain of the Santa Cruz River Basin which is great for birding and wildlife
The Patagonia-Sonoita byway is perfect for travelers seeking a beautiful drive across the desert. Taking visitors across varied terrain this route offers many opportunities to watch birds and wildlife that call the Santa Cruz River Basin home. Some of the spots travelers don’t want to miss include Patagonia Lake State Park and the Creek Sanctuary.
Drive 82 miles to experience the amazing scenery of lush woodland forests and ancient red rock formations
This byway follows State Route 89A as it splits from State Route 89 at Bitter Springs, heads north before turning and taking a southwesterly direction. To the north of Marble Canyon is the Vermillion Cliffs National Monument with its layers of red rock displaying clear stratifications and Lees Ferry Historic Site with river rafting opportunities.
Visit the Navajo Historic Bridge and Interpretive Center as you cross the Colorado River. The House Rock Valley is to the south. Continue on State Route 89A as you travel through a portion of the Kaibab National Forest and arrive at Fredonia.
A 10-mile route on State Highway 89A that connects three historic towns in Arizona
The Jerome, Clarkdale, Cottonwood Historic Road was designated on May 13, 1992 by the Arizona Department of Transportation. The Tuzigoot National Monument which can be seen over looking the Verde River from the road was the site of a Sinagua village between 1125 and 1400. Prior to the Sinagua, the Hohokam was known to live in the area.
Several of the towns along the road are on the National Register of Historic sites including Jerome and Clarkdale. The distinct combination of visual patterns in the historic sites, riparian vegetation, mines, ancient Indian dwellings and the Black Hills/Mingus Mountain make this drive a memorable experience.
Drive 24 miles to see red-rock deserts, rainbow-colored sandstone cliffs, and unique rock formations
The Sedona-Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Road was designated by the Arizona Department of Transportation on August 24, 1984. This route follows US 89A through the scenic canyon made popular in the 1920s when it was discovered by Hollywood. This scenic road offers a rare opportunity to study a variety of elements within a short distance.
The road traverses seven major plant communities as a result of elevation changes, temperature variation, and precipitation. It begins near the town of Sedona and runs in a northerly direction through Oak Creek Canyon to the top of the Mogollon Rim traveling areas rich with geologic formations similar to the Grand Canyon.
To my mind these live oak-dotted hills fat with side oats grama, these pine-clad mesas spangled with flowers, these lazy trout streams burbling along under great sycamores and cottonwoods, come near to being the cream of creation.
The Coronado National Forest spans sixteen scattered mountain ranges or sky islands rising dramatically from the desert floor supporting plant communities as biologically diverse as those encountered on a trip from Mexico to Canada
Explore the diverse landscapes of Coronado National Forest spanning deserts to mountains with endless hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Located in the heart of the Southwest, the Coronado National Forest offers a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational activities that beckon adventurers and nature lovers alike.
From the sprawling deserts dotted with saguaros to the lofty peaks shrouded in pines, this forest spans a variety of ecosystems each offering its own distinct charm and adventure opportunities.
Whether you’re drawn to the challenge of its rugged trails, the tranquility of its remote camping sites, or the thrill of spotting wildlife in their natural habitat, Coronado National Forest is a haven of outdoor exploration. With endless hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing opportunities it embodies the spirit of adventure and the beauty of the American Southwest.
Diverse landscapes: Coronado National Forest is distinguished by its remarkable variety of landscapes encompassing everything from arid deserts with iconic saguaro cacti to lush, high-elevation forests blanketed in pines, firs, and aspens. This diversity not only creates a visually stunning mosaic of habitats but also supports a wide range of recreational activities.
Visitors can experience the dramatic shifts in ecosystem within a single day’s journey making the forest a unique destination for those interested in the natural world’s complexity and beauty.
Sky Islands: The concept of sky islands is central to the character of Coronado National Forest. These are isolated mountain ranges that rise abruptly from the surrounding desert plains creating elevated havens for diverse species and ecosystems.
The sky islands of Coronado are biodiversity hotspots offering refuge for species that would otherwise face geographic isolation. These unique formations contribute to the forest’s status as a place of significant ecological interest providing critical habitats for a variety of plants and animals and offering spectacular views and hiking opportunities for visitors.
Rich biodiversity: The forest is a living showcase of biodiversity thanks to its varied climates and elevations. It hosts an impressive array of flora and fauna adapted to life in its distinct zones.
This includes over a thousand plant species from the desert’s agave and cactus to the high mountains’ conifers and deciduous trees and hundreds of animal species including rare and endangered ones. The rich biodiversity not only makes the forest a critical area for conservation efforts but also a fascinating place for nature observation and study.
Cultural heritage: Coronado National Forest is steeped in cultural history reflecting centuries of habitation by Native American tribes, Spanish explorers, and American settlers. The landscape is dotted with archaeological sites, historic mining towns, and remnants of old homesteads telling the stories of those who lived and worked in the area. These sites offer a glimpse into the human history intertwined with the forest’s natural history enriching the visitor experience with a sense of continuity and connection to the past.
Recreational opportunities: With its diverse environments, the forest caters to a wide range of outdoor activities making it a premier destination for recreation in the American Southwest. Hiking, camping, bird watching, and mountain biking are just a few of the activities that draw people to Coronado National Forest. The availability of such a variety of recreational opportunities combined with the scenic beauty of the area underscores the forest’s role as a place of leisure, adventure, and connection with nature.
Coronado National Forest’s history is a rich tapestry woven from the threads of natural evolution, indigenous habitation, exploration, and conservation efforts. Established in 1902, the forest was named in honor of Francisco Vásquez de Coronado, a Spanish explorer who in the 1540s led a significant expedition in search of the mythical Seven Cities of Gold traversing much of the area that today comprises the forest.
This historical designation reflects the forest’s deep connections to both the natural world and the human narratives that have unfolded across its landscapes. Over centuries, it has been home to diverse indigenous peoples whose stewardship of the land has left a lasting imprint on the forest’s ecology and cultural heritage. Their knowledge and practices have contributed to the rich biodiversity and ecological complexity that the forest is known for today.
In the early 20th century, the United States government recognized the need to preserve and protect the unique environments within Coronado National Forest marking the beginning of its formal conservation. The enactment of the Forest Reserve Act of 1891 laid the groundwork for the establishment of national forests including Coronado to conserve water resources, provide timber, and ensuring the sustainable use of the land.
Over the years, the forest has seen various conservation efforts including fire management practices, wildlife protection initiatives, and habitat restoration projects, all aimed at preserving its natural beauty and ecological integrity for future generations. Today, Coronado National Forest stands as a testament to the ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship, recreation, and the preservation of America’s natural and cultural history.
The Coronado National Forest is celebrated for its unique ecosystem characterized by the remarkable sky islands—mountain ranges that rise dramatically from the surrounding desert lowlands creating isolated habitats with a diversity of life that is rare. This phenomenon results in a mosaic of ecological zones where desert flora and fauna coexist near alpine forests within a relatively short distance.
These sky islands act as refuges for species by offering cooler, wetter conditions compared to the surrounding desert facilitating a high degree of biodiversity. The varying elevations and climates within the forest support an array of ecosystems from arid deserts dotted with cacti to lush pine and fir forests at higher altitudes.
This diversity not only makes Coronado a hotspot for scientists studying ecology and conservation but also turns it into a unique destination for nature enthusiasts eager to experience the stark beauty and rich biodiversity of the American Southwest.
Straddling southeastern Arizona and into the southwestern part of New Mexico, Coronado National Forest covers an expansive area marked by its stunning sky islands and desert landscapes. The forest’s boundaries encompass a significant portion of the Madrean Archipelago with elevations ranging from 3,000 to 10,000 feet. Its location offers not only a dramatic backdrop for outdoor activities but also serves as a critical habitat for a myriad of species.
Here’s a list of access points for exploring Coronado National Forest’s sky islands:
Santa Catalina Mountains: From Tucson, take the Catalina Highway off Tanque Verde Road. Follow signs to Mount Lemmon. The scenic byway offers direct access to hiking trails, campgrounds, and ski areas in the Santa Catalina Mountains.
Huachuca Mountains: From Sierra Vista, access the Huachuca Mountains via AZ-90 S. Turn onto Coronado National Memorial Road to explore the southern sections or use Ramsey Canyon Road for northern access points.
Chiricahua Mountains: From Willcox, take AZ-186 E towards the Chiricahua National Monument. Continue on to Pinery Canyon Road for access to Chiricahua Wilderness Area and various trailheads.
Pinaleno Mountains (Mt. Graham): From Safford, take US-191 S/US-70 W. Turn onto AZ-366 (Swift Trail) leading up to Mt. Graham for high elevation hiking and camping.
Vegetation and plant species in Coronado National Forest
Saguaro Cactus: Emblematic of the Sonoran Desert, the towering saguaro cacti (Carnegiea gigantea) are not just iconic landscape features but vital habitats for birds like the Gila woodpecker and provide moisture for many desert dwellers.
Ponderosa Pine: Dominating the higher elevations, the ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa) form extensive forests offering shade and cooler temperatures significantly altering the environment from the desert below.
Douglas Fir: Found in the cooler, moist areas of the highest elevations, Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) contribute to the forest’s diversity providing habitat for numerous wildlife species and contributing to the forest’s complex ecosystem.
Ocotillo: A desert plant, the ocotillo (Fouquieria splendens) known for its long, spiny stems and vibrant red flowers thrives in the arid lower elevations of the forest adding bursts of color to the landscape after rainfall.
Manzanita: With its distinctive red bark and green leaves, manzanita (Arctostaphylos) bushes are common in the chaparral and woodland areas providing food and shelter for wildlife.
Alligator Juniper: Recognizable by its thick, checkered bark resembling alligator skin, the alligator juniper (Juniperus deppeana) is found in various elevations offering berries that are an important food source for birds and mammals.
Mexican Blue Oak: A resilient species adapted to dry, rocky soils, the Mexican blue oak (Quercus oblongifolia) add to the forest’s arboreal diversity showcasing the adaptability of plant life in varying climates and elevations.
Riparian vegetation: Along streams and rivers, riparian zones flourish with a variety of plant species including willows (Salix) and cottonwoods (Populus) creating lush corridors of greenery that contrast with the surrounding arid landscapes. These areas are crucial for ecosystem health supporting a wide range of species and stabilizing stream banks.
Mexican Spotted Owl: Listed as a threatened species, the Mexican spotted owl (Strix occidentalis lucida) prefers the dense canopy of old-growth forests. Its presence indicates healthy forest ecosystems and serves as a key species for conservation efforts within the forest.
Javelina: Also known as the collared peccary, javelinas (Pecari tajacu) are commonly found in both desert and riparian areas. These social animals travel in herds and are well-adapted to the arid conditions of the Southwest.
Gila Monster: One of the only venomous lizards in the United States, the Gila monster (Heloderma suspectum) is often found in desert scrub and woodland areas. Its bright colors warn predators of its venomous bite, a rare but fascinating sight for visitors.
Coati: Belonging to the raccoon family, coatis (Nasua narica) are curious and adaptable creatures. They are often seen in groups, foraging through various forest layers from ground level to treetops particularly in the forest’s southern regions.
Elk: Introduced to the region, elk (Cervus canadensis) have thrived in the higher elevations where meadows and open forests provide ample grazing. Their bugles echo through the forest in the fall, a haunting sound of the wild.
Black Bear: As the only bear species present in the area, black bears (Ursus americanus) are a symbol of wilderness in Coronado National Forest. They inhabit various forested environments adapting their diet and behavior to the changing seasons.
Peregrine Falcon: The world’s fastest bird, the peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus) can be spotted in the sky islands diving for prey at incredible speeds. Its presence signifies the health of the forest’s avian populations and the success of conservation efforts.
Arizona Treefrog: The state amphibian of Arizona, the small Arizona treefrog (Hyla wrightorum) is often found near water sources in wooded areas. Its distinctive call fills the night air during the rainy season contributing to the forest’s biodiversity.
Chiricahua Leopard Frog: Found in aquatic habitats within the forest, the Chiricahua Leopard frog (Lithobates chiricahuensis) is of particular conservation concern. Efforts to preserve its dwindling populations are crucial for maintaining ecological balance in wetland areas.
Sky Islands Scenic Byway (Catalina Highway): This scenic drive winds its way from the desert floor up to the cool heights of Mount Lemmon offering breathtaking views of the desert below and access to numerous hiking trails, picnic areas, and campgrounds. The dramatic change in vegetation and climate along the drive showcases the unique ecological concept of sky islands making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the Coronado National Forest.
Sabino Canyon: Located in the Santa Catalina Mountains, Sabino Canyon is a natural desert oasis fed by spring waters and seasonal rains. Visitors can explore this stunning landscape through a network of hiking trails or enjoy a narrated tram ride which offers insights into the canyon’s natural and cultural history. Its accessibility and beauty make it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Chiricahua National Monument: Often referred to as the Wonderland of Rocks, this area within the Coronado National Forest is famous for its extensive rock formations and spires that have been sculpted over millions of years by volcanic activity and erosion. Hiking trails meander through the fantastical landscape providing opportunities for photography, bird watching, and immersing oneself in the tranquility of nature.
Madera Canyon: A renowned birdwatching hotspot, Madera Canyon is nestled in the Santa Rita Mountains. It offers a range of trails that cater to all levels of hikers from leisurely walks to challenging hikes. The diverse habitats within the canyon support an impressive variety of bird species making it a globally recognized destination for birders.
Mt. Graham International Observatory: Situated atop Mt. Graham in the Pinaleno Mountains, the observatory is one of the world’s leading astronomical observatories. While access to the observatory itself is limited, the drive up Mt. Graham provides stunning views and the chance to experience the rich biodiversity of the sky islands from desert scrub to alpine forests.
Ramsey Canyon Preserve: Managed by The Nature Conservancy, Ramsey Canyon is known for its exceptional biodiversity. The preserve is home to a variety of wildlife including hummingbirds and offers a peaceful retreat into nature with its gentle trails and riparian habitat. The cooler, moist conditions in the canyon support a lush array of plant life contrasting sharply with the surrounding desert.
Coronado Cave: Offering a more adventurous attraction, Coronado Cave is a hidden gem that allows visitors to explore beneath the earth’s surface. The cave is accessible via a short hike and provides a glimpse into the geological history of the area. No special permits or equipment are required for entry but visitors should bring flashlights and wear sturdy shoes.
Recreational Activities in Coronado National Forest
Hiking: With hundreds of miles of trails crisscrossing its diverse landscapes, hiking is one of the most popular activities in Coronado National Forest. Trails range from easy, family-friendly walks to challenging backcountry treks that lead to high peaks, deep canyons, and secluded spots. The forest’s extensive trail system allows visitors to explore the unique ecosystems of the sky islands encounter wildlife and enjoy panoramic views.
Camping: Coronado National Forest offers a wide range of camping experiences from developed campgrounds with amenities to primitive backcountry sites. Camping allows visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the forest whether setting up a tent under a canopy of stars in the desert or beside a bubbling stream in a mountain meadow. It’s an opportunity to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and connect with nature.
Bird watching: The forest’s diverse habitats are a haven for birdwatchers hosting an impressive array of bird species including rare and migratory birds. Areas like Madera Canyon and Ramsey Canyon are renowned for their birding opportunities offering the chance to spot hummingbirds, warblers, and even elusive species like the Elegant Trogon. The varied elevations create unique environments that support a rich biodiversity making Coronado National Forest a premier destination for bird enthusiasts.
Mountain biking: For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the forest’s network of trails also caters to mountain bikers. Ranging from gentle rides through rolling hills to challenging routes with steep climbs and descents, the trails offer something for riders of all skill levels. Mountain biking in Coronado National Forest provides a unique way to cover more ground and experience the stunning landscapes from a different perspective.
Picnicking: With numerous picnic areas scattered throughout its expanse, the forest is a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch amidst nature’s beauty. Many picnic sites offer tables, grills, and access to trails making it easy to enjoy a meal with family and friends followed by an exploration of the surrounding area. It’s a simple yet delightful way to appreciate the forest’s natural splendor.
Wildlife viewing: The varied ecosystems within Coronado National Forest support a wealth of wildlife offering ample opportunities for viewing. From observing javelinas and deer in their natural habitats to spotting black bears or the elusive mountain lion from a safe distance, wildlife viewing is a rewarding activity for nature lovers. The forest’s sky islands are particularly rich in biodiversity providing habitats for many species that are unique to the region.
Astronomy: Thanks to its remote locations and high elevations, the forest offers some of the best stargazing opportunities in the Southwest. The clear, dark skies away from city lights are ideal for observing stars, planets and meteor showers.
Mt. Graham International Observatory although with limited public access, underscores the area’s significance for astronomical observation. Amateur astronomers and casual stargazers alike can find numerous spots within the forest to marvel at the night sky.
Facilities and amenities in Coronado National Forest
Campgrounds: The forest boasts a range of campgrounds from developed sites with modern amenities such as restrooms, picnic tables, and fire rings to primitive areas for those seeking a more rugged outdoor experience. Campgrounds are situated in various environments across the forest allowing visitors to choose their preferred setting whether it’s under the towering pines of high-elevation forests or in the expansive landscapes of the desert.
Picnic areas: Scattered throughout the forest are numerous picnic areas, many of which are located near trailheads, scenic overlooks, or alongside streams and rivers. These areas are equipped with tables and in some cases grills making them perfect spots for families and groups to enjoy meals with a view. Picnic areas serve as convenient starting points for a day of exploration or a peaceful break during outdoor adventures.
Trails: Coronado National Forest features an extensive network of trails catering to all levels of outdoor enthusiasts from easy walks to challenging hikes. Trails are well-marked and offer access to the forest’s diverse landscapes including scenic vistas, riparian zones, and unique geological formations. Informational signage along some trails enhances the educational experience providing insights into the area’s ecology, geology, and history.
Visitor centers: The visitor centers in Coronado National Forest are invaluable resources for guests. Staffed by knowledgeable personnel these centers offer maps, brochures, and information on the forest’s flora, fauna, and recreational opportunities. They can also provide updates on trail conditions, weather forecasts, and safety tips making them a must-visit for those planning to explore the forest.
Observation sites: For those interested in photography, bird watching, or simply enjoying panoramic views, the forest offers several observation sites and overlooks. These spots are strategically located to showcase the forest’s stunning landscapes and biodiversity hotspots providing visitors with unforgettable views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and sometimes even wildlife.
Restrooms and sanitation facilities: Developed areas within the forest including many campgrounds and picnic areas are equipped with restrooms and sanitation facilities. These amenities vary from flush toilets in some of the more developed sites to vault toilets in remote areas ensuring that visitors have access to basic comforts while enjoying the natural environment.
Informational signage: Throughout Coronado National Forest, informational signage plays a crucial role in enhancing visitor experience and education. These signs offer insights into the local ecology, historical facts, trail guides, and safety information helping visitors to navigate the forest safely while learning about their natural surroundings.
Tips and advice for visiting Coronado National Forest
Check weather and road conditions: The forest spans a wide range of elevations leading to varied weather conditions. Before your visit, check the forecast for the specific area you plan to explore. Additionally, road conditions can change especially in higher elevations or after weather events, so verify accessibility, particularly if planning to visit more remote areas.
Respect wildlife: The diverse habitats in Coronado National Forest are home to a variety of wildlife. While observing animals in their natural setting can be a highlight of your visit, it’s important to maintain a safe distance, not feed wildlife, and store food properly to avoid attracting animals to campgrounds and picnic areas.
Leave no trace: Preserving the natural beauty and integrity of the forest is a collective responsibility. Follow Leave No Trace principles by packing out all trash, staying on designated trails to prevent erosion, and camping in established sites or areas where camping is permitted to minimize impact.
Stay prepared: Whether you’re going for a short hike or a multi-day backpacking trip, it’s crucial to be prepared. Bring sufficient water, sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and layers of clothing to adapt to changing conditions. A map, compass or GPS, and a basic first aid kit are also essential even on well-marked trails.
Fire safety: Be aware of current fire restrictions which can vary throughout the year based on conditions. If campfires are allowed use established fire rings, keep fires manageable, and ensure they are completely extinguished before leaving. Portable cooking stoves are a good alternative and often permitted even when fires are not.
Plan your activities: With so much to see and do, it’s helpful to plan your activities in advance. Consider the length and difficulty of trails, availability of camping sites, and any permits or fees required for certain areas. Visitor centers can be a great resource for recommendations and updates.
Respect cultural sites: Coronado National Forest is rich in cultural history with many archaeological sites and historical landmarks. Respect these areas by not disturbing artifacts or structures and learn about the history and cultures that have shaped the region.
Wilderness safety: If venturing into wilderness areas, understand the challenges and responsibilities. These areas are managed to be minimally impacted by humans meaning fewer amenities and signs. Familiarize yourself with wilderness ethics and be prepared for self-sufficiency and navigation in more remote settings.
Stay informed: Regulations and available amenities can change. Visit the official Coronado National Forest website or contact local ranger stations for the most current information regarding closures, permits, and conditions.
Recommendation
For those seeking an immersive nature experience, Coronado National Forest offers an unparalleled diversity of landscapes and activities. Whether it’s hiking through a desert canyon, camping under a canopy of stars in a high elevation forest, or exploring historic sites, there’s something for every outdoor enthusiast.
Conclusion
Coronado National Forest stands as a testament to the beauty and diversity of the American Southwest. With its unique ecosystems, rich history, and plethora of recreational opportunities, it offers an invaluable resource for conservation, education, and enjoyment.
Coronado National Forest is more than just a destination; it’s a vibrant, living landscape that invites exploration, reflection, and connection. Whether you’re drawn to its towering peaks, deep canyons, or the stories etched into its land, a visit to this majestic forest is a journey through the heart of nature’s diversity.
Here are a few more articles to help you explore the area:
There are a lot of places to visit in Arizona—from admiring the Grand Canyon to experiencing cultural tourist attractions throughout its desert landscape
Arizona’s landscapes are nothing short of stunning. Towering buttes meet hills covered with saguaro cacti. The otherworldly landscape that often feels better suited for Mars than our planet is grounded by what has become Arizona’s other great draw: the proof of human history found in the sites and settlements of Ancestral Puebloans. These archaeological sites which include cliff dwellings, sandstone homes, and petroglyphs dot the state offering a reminder of the people who came before.
With a deep human history and a stunning natural landscape, there is plenty to explore in Arizona, including cities, national parks and monuments, and outdoor attractions. This guide is split into specific sections as Arizona has many different types of places to visit.
So let’s get started.
Best cities to visit in Arizona
Arizona isn’t all desert and canyons; the state has numerous cities that deserve visiting. The following cities are some of the best places to visit in Arizona.
Phoenix is the sunny state capital of Arizona. Located in central Arizona, Phoenix is surrounded by mountains and desert landscapes. Its location seems unlikely for a city with skyscrapers and luxury hotels shooting up from what (before 1881) was once sand and dust. However, its incongruous allure is all part of Phoenix’s charm.
Phoenix is the best place to visit in Arizona for a big-city experience. The city is bursting with creativity and attractions including more art galleries than you could see in a whole week.
Phoenix is also home to the Musical Instrument Museum, Natural History Museum, Phoenix Bat Cave, and Desert Botanical Garden.
Tucson is another Arizona destination worth repeat visits with history, culture, and outdoor activities galore. Plus, its food game is beyond your wildest expectations. Tucson is a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. Tucson gave us the Sonoran dog—a bacon-wrapped street dog forged in nearby Sonora and packed into a bun filled with burrito toppings.
Home to the University of Arizona, the city nurtures a vibrant downtown arts scene with the contemporary Tucson Museum of Art forming the backbone of a flourishing community of painters, glass-blowers, and jewelers. When the heat drops at night, that same downtown comes alive with bars, breweries, and upscale restaurants embracing the uniquely Tucson convergence of Mexican and Arizona influences, a dose of green chiles, open-faced quesadillas (cheese crisps), and those exquisite hot dogs
View a great variety of plants and animals of the Sonoran Desert at the Arizona-Sonoran Desert Museum. Two miles of paths lead through 21 acres of displays. Live demonstrations and tours daily.
A desert oasis, Sabino Canyon Recreation Area is a hiker’s paradise. Tucked in a canyon in the Santa Catalina Mountains in the Coronado Forest, it is easily accessible from Tucson. Ride the narrated shuttle bus and you can get off and back on at any of the stops for a picnic, hike, or a walk back.
One of the top places to visit, San Xavier del Bac is a Spanish Catholic Mission. This national historic landmark was founded in 1692 and welcomes more than 200,000 visitors per year. The church is considered the finest Spanish Colonial architecture in the United States.
If Phoenix is best for a big-city feel, Cottonwood is best for the opposite. Part river town, part wine trail, and part historic hub: Cottonwood offers a fun and lively scene that sets it apart from the arid desert to the south and the soaring mountains to the north.
Although it might be best known as a gateway to the nearby red rocks of Sedona, Cottonwood has plenty of charms of its own. They start with the quaint Old Town district and branch out to the banks of the lushly green Verde River and the nearby historic towns of Clarkdale and Jerome.
Any visit to Cottonwood should start with a stop in the Historic Old Town, a district that dates back to the early 1900s when it was a center for the area’s mining and smelter industry. Today, many of the buildings feature the rock and brick architecture of the 1920s and ’30s. Old Town antique stores, wine-tasting venues, six galleries, and three hotels!
Best National Parks to visit in Arizona
What would a trip to Arizona be without visiting a national park? Arizona’s national parks are renowned for their incredible attractions including the famous Grand Canyon.
You can explore the hiking trails, and biking trails, take off-roading tours, or book a scenic helicopter flight—it is up to you. These are the best national parks to visit in Arizona.
The park is most known for its cacti. Indeed, in this national park, you’ll find some of the largest saguaro cacti in the U.S. Some of the cacti live up to 200 years old and grow at a very slow rate. The national park feels like an old American West movie scene and has over 90,000 acres to explore.
Valley View Overlook Trail is a short walk that should take around 20 minutes to complete while hiking to Signal Hill Petroglyphs, a must for anyone interested in ancient art and civilizations.
If Petrified Forest National Park sounds fantastic, it’s because it is. However, if you arrive expecting a lush forest full of beautiful trees, you’ll be shocked. The national park is a barren landscape full of fossils and petrified, sliced tree trunks.
The petrified wood is scattered across the national park and you can drive the length of the park in around an hour or two—stopping at whatever spot catches your eye. Some not to miss places include Rainbow Forest Museum, Painted Desert, and Crystal Forest Blue Mesa hiking trails.
Wondering how this natural phenomenon occurs? Petrification of trees takes place when trees have been buried underground without oxygen for thousands of years. Over time, the decaying wood becomes mineralized and turns into fossilized stone creating a replica of the original form, just in a different material.
For a unique natural experience, Petrified Forest National Park is one of the best places to visit in Arizona. We recommend choosing this national park for anyone intrigued by natural mysteries and wanting a memorable experience in Arizona.
The Grand Canyon! What can I say? The park is one of the best places to visit in the U.S., never mind Arizona. Visiting the Grand Canyon is at or near the top of most people’s bucket list.
South Rim and North Rim are the most popular areas to explore the Grand Canyon. The North Rim is the lesser-seen side of the Grand Canyon and is best for those who want a quieter place to experience this amazing wonder. South Rim is much busier and is packed with different hiking trails.
A popular hiking route is the Bright Angel Trail. The trail is well-maintained and relatively easy. It follows a side canyon, past cliff faces, and various switchbacks before finishing at Plateau Point. Plateau Point has stunning views of the canyon and the park’s scenery.
Of course, you can always splurge on a helicopter ride instead. Many tourists opt to view the canyon from above, which is one of the most exhilarating things to do in Arizona.
Canyon de Chelly National Monument is located in the Navajo Nation in the northeastern part of the state. For those who want to experience nature in the north, it is easily one of the best places to visit in Arizona.
Canyon de Chelly National Monument covers over 80,000 acres and is home to the Spider Rock spire. The spire is a 700-foot-high sandstone rock. Spider Rock spire gained its shape by gradual erosion over time and experts believe it was once connected to a ridge. Nowadays, it makes an unusual natural attraction and a great photograph.
You can drop by the Canyon de Chelly Visitor Center for expert local guidance on things to see and do. However, you should make sure to try a hiking trail or scenic drive.
The remote Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument is a gem tucked away in southern Arizona’s vast Sonoran Desert. Thanks to its unique crossroads locale, the monument is home to a wide range of specialized plants and animals including its namesake.
There are 28 different species of cacti in the monument ranging from the giant saguaro to the miniature pincushion. These cacti are all highly adapted to survive in the dry and unpredictable desert. They use spines for protection and shade, thick skin, and pulp to preserve water, unique pathways of photosynthesis at night, and hidden under their skin are delicate to sturdy wooden frames holding them together.
The monument’s namesake, the organ pipe cactus can live to over 150 years in age, have up to 100 arms, reach 25 feet in height, and will only produce its first flower near the age of 35.
About 27 million years ago, this Land of Standing-Up Rocks was formed when a violent volcanic eruption spewed forth thick, white-hot ash. This eruption was a thousand times greater than the 1980 eruption of Mount Saint Helen in Washington. As the ash cooled, it fused into an almost 2,000-foot-thick layer of volcanic rock known as rhyolite. The Chiricahua Mountains were created as well during this time. Over the eons, wind, water, and ice sculpted what are today the formations that makeup Chiricahua National Monument.
There are hiking trails, both short loops and longer treks that take you back down the mountain and deep into the gorges and other splendors of this spectacular place. More than 20 miles of trails wind through the park. Duck on a Rock, Totem Pole, and Big Balanced Rock are a few of the more famous formations you will see.
Best State Parks to visit in Arizona
Arizona’s 34 state parks have something for everyone from contemplative nature walks to stargazing to camping.
With the Santa Catalina Mountains beckoning in the distance and canyons and seasonal streams dotting the landscape, Catalina State Park provides a delightful respite in the Tucson area. The park is a haven for desert plants and wildlife and nearly 5,000 saguaros. The park’s 5,500 acres provide miles of equestrian, birding, hiking, and biking trails that wind through the park and into the nearby Coronado National Forest.
More than 150 species of birds call the park home. This scenic desert park also offers equestrian trails and an equestrian center provides a staging area for trail riders with plenty of trailer parking. The state park offers 120 campsites with electric and water utilities suitable for RVs of all lengths.
Since the 1840s, many have claimed to know the location of the Peralta family’s lost gold mine in the Superstition Mountains but none of these would-be fortune-seekers became more famous than the Dutchman Jacob Waltz. The German prospector purportedly hid caches of the precious metal throughout the Superstition Wilderness. Fact or fiction, Waltz’s windfall gave the park its name.
You might not find gold during your visit but other treasures include great hiking and biking trails and 138 RV camping sites (68 with electric and water) with sunset views.
Picacho rises from the desert seemingly out of nowhere, its sharp buttes like lighthouses guiding travelers home. It wasn’t always a sight for road-weary eyes, though. In 1862, Confederate and Union soldiers clashed here in the Battle of Picacho Pass, a fight marked in history as the westernmost battle of the Civil War.
These days during the spring, vibrant wildflowers carpet the ground; come winter, the challenging trails that ascend the sunny peaks draw thrill-seeking hikers.
Oak Creek runs for nearly 2 miles throughout this 286-acre state park adorning the sandstone mesas and red boulders with leafy riparian habitats. If we’re judging Sedona hiking hot spots, it doesn’t get much better than the park’s juniper-studded trails and vortex-framed vistas.
Red Rock State Park is one of the most ecologically diverse parks in Arizona which is why it makes sense that it serves as an environmental education hub. From the Visitor Center’s interactive exhibits and film presentations to guided nature walks and full moon hikes programming offers insight into Sedona’s majestic landscape.
As far as lakeside parks go, this one in western Arizona has no beach and not much shoreline hiking. But! It’s considered one of the best bass fishing lakes in the country. Anglers: Pack your gear and reserve one of the 15 full-service camping sites or cabins where the front porch makes for an ideal spot to spin yarns about the catch of the day.
South of Sonoita, the blue waters of Patagonia Lake glisten for 265 acres. Unlike the craggy escarpments that border many desert lakes here it’s all rounded corners and gentle slopes. The surrounding hills ease down to the tall grasses that line the shore. A trail meanders from the beach to Sonoita Creek which formed the lake when it was dammed.
A marina provides boat rentals: canoes, pontoons, rowboats, and paddleboats. In a former life, this land was the home of the Sobaipuri and Papago tribes, both related to the Pima Indians. Today, it’s the home away from home for campers, birders, swimmers, sunbathers, boaters, and anglers.
Best Outdoor Attractions
After exploring the best national and state parks and cities, let’s look at Arizona’s largest category—its outdoor attractions.
Arizona is perfect if you love being outdoors and experiencing natural attractions. The state is full of things to see and do outdoors including visiting Antelope Canyon and Monument Valley. Ready to be inspired? Let’s take a look.
Monument Valley is located along the Arizona-Utah border. If you want to visit easily, overnight at the Valley’s View Campground, and what a view you’ll enjoy especially at sunset. The valley is one of the most famous landscapes in the U.S. and easily one of the best places to visit in Arizona.
The valley is over 90,000 acres and is full of hiking trails and spectacular rock formations. It is most known for its towering sandstone buttes which you can experience on scenic drives or hiking trails. Don’t miss Forest Gump Point, the iconic viewpoint used in famous movies and is an important filming location in cinematic history.
The valley is a great place to cut through if you are planning an Arizona road trip. There are many things to see while driving through the valley and the scenery is perfect for memorable road tripping.
If you are heading up to the Arizona-Utah border it is well worth detouring to Lake Powell. The lake is a stunning artificial body of water situated between Monument Valley and Grand Canyon National Park. It is a beautiful place to visit in Arizona. The lake’s bright blue water and orange sandstone surroundings cut a picture-perfect scene.
The lake is fed by the Colorado River and covers over 2,000 miles of shoreline. The Rainbow Bridge National Monument is a significant attraction on the lake and the vast stone arc is the largest natural bridge in the world. It is an excellent attraction to combine with enjoying the lake itself.
Many people spend a day or two staying along the shores of the lake. You may wish to visit on a day trip or book a campsite so that you can stay overnight. Full-service sites are available.
Fascinated by ancient culture and archaeological sites of inhabitation? Montezuma Castle National Monument is the place to visit. The site is home to several cliffside dwellings, built and lived in by Indigenous People around 1100 to 1425 AD.
Sadly, access inside the dwellings has now been prohibited in an understandable attempt to protect the site from excessive damage. However, visitors can take a virtual tour inside the houses. They look incredible from the outside and you can enjoy numerous hiking trails for different views.
I mentioned the Desert Botanical Garden when discussing Phoenix. The garden is located in Papago Park in the center of Arizona’s capital city. However, the Desert Botanical Garden is worthy of a spot on our list in its own right.
Why is the Desert Botanical Garden so spectacular? The 150-acre garden has over 50,000 desert plants and is the ideal place to visit for a convenient desert experience. The botanical garden is an easy and fun alternative for those who don’t have time to visit major desert locations like Saguaro National Park.
Glen Canyon Dam is situated in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, a one million-acre reserve encompassing biking trails, hiking trails, and Lake Powell.
Planning a trip to Glen Canyon National Recreation Park to visit Lake Powell? I recommend taking a detour to visit the Glen Canyon Dam. The dam is a hydroelectric power plant and has become an iconic attraction along the Colorado River.
Visitors can take boat tours to view Glen Canyon Dam up close or even fly over the dam for a flight experience. The 710-foot infrastructure is incredible from a distance and even more impressive up close. Of course, to save a bit of money, you can always walk across Glen Canyon Dam Bridge where you’ll still have great views over the dam.
Lake Mead is another impressive artificial attraction. The lake has the highest water capacity of any U.S. reservoir and sits on the Nevada-Arizona border. If you love water activities and lakeside living, Lake Mead is one of the best places to visit in Arizona to unwind and relax.
Allow time to take a Lake Mead cruise as the contrast between desert and an oasis-like body of water is striking and best experienced from the water itself. You can also fish and boat on the lake.
If you are planning a road trip, Lake Mead is ideally located en route to Las Vegas. It is worth detouring to enjoy the lake and consider combining it with a visit to the nearby Hoover Dam.
Once the tallest dam in the world, the Hoover Dam has a nostalgic kind of power. While it no longer holds that grand title, it is still one of Arizona’s best places to visit. Visitors quickly appreciate its power and strength. It is said that the dam could withstand the force of Niagara Falls which gives you an excellent perspective on how strong it is.
You can view the Hoover Dam from afar or drop by the Hoover Dam Visitors Center to book a guided tour. Tours typically include access to the Hoover Dam tunnels, an elevator ride to the top, and special access to functional rooms throughout the building.
If you are interested in architecture or just want to see a national historic landmark up close, the dam is great to visit. It is also combined with a trip to Las Vegas as the dam sits on the Nevada-Arizona border.
Fancy indulging in a bit of history? Jerome State Historic Park is a fantastic place to visit in Jerome. The state park has a couple of acres surrounding Douglas Mansion which has been transformed into a quirky mining museum.
Visitors can wander through two floors of informative exhibits plus outdoor gardens. The museum balances general mining stories and the local town’s history. You can learn about region-specific minerals and mining processes through various mediums including cinematic videos.
The Superstition Mountains cover 160,000 acres and are full of gorgeous mountainous and desert scenes. That is not what makes this place famous, though; it is the lost gold mines.
Legends of gold have kept mining companies and independent hunters searching the mountains for years. Many hunters have hit the jackpot and found lots of riches. You can join the crowds or find non-gold-related entertainment in the mountains.
You can visit the Superstition Mountains Museum, explore the surrounding Tonto National Forest, or hike along one of the various trails. These mountains are one of the best places to visit in Arizona for adventure.
A magnet for outdoorsy types, Sedona enjoys a picturesque location at the base of Oak Creek Canyon surrounded by 1.8 million acres of national forest land. You could easily get swept away in all the activities to be enjoyed nearby from hiking and biking to rafting and fishing but the town itself is also well worth exploring. Thanks to its longstanding connection to the art world—surrealist painter Max Ernst and his wife Dorothea Tanning moved here in the 1940s—there are more than 80 galleries to explore as well as street art and performing arts centers.
More places to visit in Arizona
These destinations are special additions to my guide on the best places to visit in Arizona. Whether they are a museum or sacred tribal lands they don’t fit into the outdoor tourist attraction category. I’ve given them a category of their own.
Here is my final subsection, my special list of more places to visit in Arizona.
The Chapel of the Holy Cross is one of the most unique places to visit in Arizona and there’s no way we couldn’t add this unique church to my list.
While I’m not placing the church in the outdoor attraction category, its exterior is a beautiful sight. The church is wedged between two sandstone buttes and has large, plain glass windows that give it a modern, chic design. The Chapel of the Holy Cross is not your typical church.
You can enter the church to look around or join a service if you wish. The church is near Sedona and plenty of other attractions so it isn’t too much of a detour to make.
Arizona Sonora Desert Museum is situated on the outskirts of Tucson. However, the museum deserves a place on this list in its own right.
The museum is a bit of everything from a natural history museum to a zoo and a botanical garden. Arizona Sonora Desert Museum covers 98 acres and includes an aquarium section and live animal exhibits plus flora displays in the botanical garden section. There is also an art gallery for visitors to enjoy.
You could easily spend a whole day at the museum. The museum is a chance to experience multiple attractions at once.
Looking for a scenic drive? Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway is an incredible, relatively short scenic drive that you can enjoy from Tucson. Short enough to comfortably squeeze into a day yet long enough to provide diverse scenes and attractions, this scenic byway is a great place to drive.
Mount Lemmon Highway starts near the outskirts of Tucson.
I recommend stopping at Babad Do’ag Scenic Overlook, Molino Canyon Vista, Thimble Peak Vista, Windy Point Vista, and Geology Vista Point. There are quite literally dozens of hiking trails and trailheads along the highway as well. You can easily park up and take a detour on foot.
Allow extra time again once you reach Mount Lemmon’s peak. There is Mount Lemmon Ski Valley, Mount Lemmon Sky Observatory, and a Fire Lookout Station to visit. Mount Lemmon has a small town near the mountain top where you can grab refreshments and do some light shopping.
A relic of the Wild West that refused to become relegated to the history books, Tombstone has a legacy stretching back some 140 years. The Cochise County town started life in 1877 when prospector Ed Schieffelin arrived here in the hunt for silver. He struck lucky discovering huge reserves of the stuff—as well as large gold deposits—and the town boomed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Unlike many similar places, Tombstone didn’t become a total ghost town. Today, it’s filled with everything from saloon-style restaurants to Western boutiques, all paying homage to the days when prospectors and merchants ran riot here.
Although it may not be as well-known as big hitters like the Grand Canyon and the Petrified Forest, Watson Lake is certainly up there with Arizona’s most beautiful landscapes. This stunning natural lake situated just four miles from downtown Prescott provides a breathtaking backdrop for several outdoor pursuits including swimming, hiking, boating, and kayaking. For the best all-round tour, hike the six-mile Peavine Trail which loops around its granite boulders and follows along the route of the former Santa Fe Railway providing plenty of scenic vistas along the way.
The Grand Canyon State is packed with wonderful activities and tourist destinations. Visiting Arizona is guaranteed to be memorable and you’ll stay well entertained throughout your stay. The state has so much to offer, whether you want a typical desert experience, a quirky tourist attraction, or a cultural immersion.
Have a fantastic trip. I hope you manage to experience at least a few of these best places to visit in Arizona.
Worth Pondering…
Newcomers to Arizona are often struck by Desert Fever.
Desert Fever is caused by the spectacular natural beauty and serenity of the area.
Early symptoms include a burning desire to make plans for the next trip south.
From the coast to the desert, here are nine road trips that will have you road-tripping through America’s finest landscapes. Some are RV-friendly while others may require a smaller vehicle to navigate.
The Santa Catalinas crowned by 9,157-foot Mt. Lemmon rise in ragged ridges at the northern edge of Tucson. Explore this rugged world with a scenic drive up the Catalina Highway also known as the Sky Island Scenic Byway.
The 30-mile paved road winds up through dry desert terrain, past rocky outcroppings, pull-outs offering stunning vistas, and mid-level forests teaming with leafy oak trees. Don’t forget your jacket as temperatures can drop as much as 30-degrees from the bottom to the top of the road.
Trail of the Ancients – Utah, Colorado, and Arizona
Experience the beautiful and diverse landscapes of the Colorado Plateau on the Trail of the Ancients, a scenic route that travels through Southeastern Utah, Southwestern Colorado, and Northeastern Arizona. It connects some of the nation’s richest archaeological, cultural, and historic sites in a remote region teeming with towering sandstone formations, deep canyons, and iconic red buttes.
The adventure can begin at any point on the trail but many choose to start at the famed Four Corners Monument and then travel in a counter-clockwise circle. Along the way, you’ll see the cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde National Park and the archaeological sites of the Hovenweep National Monument.
You’ll white-knuckle it down the hairpin turns of the Moki Dugway and marvel at the sandstone monoliths and pinnacles of the Valley of the Gods. Cross the San Juan River in the tiny one-horse town of Mexican Hat, gaze in wonder at the postcard-ready views of the Monument Valley, and finally end up at the Canyon De Chelly National Monument in Northern Arizona.
This Louisiana byway reaches through three of the state’s southern parishes—St. Martin, Iberia, and St. Mary—as it winds through Bayou Teche and the Atchafalaya Basin from Morgan City to Arnaudville. Travelers can make stops along the byways 183 miles to explore inviting small towns, go kayaking in Breaux Bridge, and enjoy authentic local Cajun food.
Stretching 105 miles across Shenandoah National Park, Skyline Drive offers 75 overlooks, picnic areas, and trails. Warm spring weather brings purple and yellow violets, masses of pink azaleas, and white dogwood flowers.
If you’re making a day trip of it, pick one of the 30-mile stretches such as Front Royal to Thornton Gap where you can stop at the Dickey Ridge Visitor Center.
Hiking enthusiasts can head to Mary’s Rock for 360-degree views or enjoy a more leisurely lookout by driving to Pinnacles Overlook perched at 3,320 feet. The area offers numerous wineries such as Little Washington Winery and Quievremont Vineyard and Winery where you can enjoy the views while nibbling on cheese and sipping wine.
Starting near the City of Green River, Utah Route 24 creates a grand loop through the south-central slickrock desert and ends up back on I-70 to the west near Aurora. A section of this meandering drive between Loa and Hanksville turns the spotlight on Capitol Reef National Park. Here the scenic drive follows the Fremont River, an oasis in a parched environment.
The 378 square mile Capitol Reef Park can be viewed as a northern extension of the huge Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument, covering an additional 1.7 million acres. Capitol Reef is a sightseers and hikers’ paradise with deep red monoliths, sculpted spires, graceful arches, mesmerizing canyon mazes, and the imposing Waterpocket Fold.
Various side roads and unimproved roads have the tendency to turn this scenic drive into a weeklong adventure. With historic structures and plenty of grand views, this route earns plenty of raves from those who have gone before. Miles from any large city, this is a true off-the-beaten-path experience.
The Texas Hill Country, located west of Austin and north of San Antonio, features a landscape dotted with lush rolling green hills, spring-fed rivers, and charming small towns.
Thanks to Lady Bird Johnson who led a campaign to beautify American cities, vast swaths of bluebonnets were planted across Texas Hill Country and now their bright blue blooms signify the advent of the spring season.
While there are countless nature trails, first-timers should start in Austin and take U.S. 290 west to Johnson City’s lovely Wildflower Loop. Then hightail it along U.S. 281 N to the town of Burnet which is widely known as the official bluebonnet capital of Texas.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is split in two by a single major two-lane roadway that crosses through the heart of the park and over its highest mountain gap.
This scenic drive is known as the Newfound Gap Road or US Highway 441. The roadway follows rivers, climbs steep slopes, and offers incredible views.
In the spring months, this route is awash with color as the wildflowers come alive and the trees begin to sport their bright green new leaves. A must-see are the rare Purple Catawba rhododendrons found only at high elevations that reach their peak of bloom along this well-known drive by early June.
I’ve put together my favorite itineraries to make it easy for you to explore your own backyard—wherever your backyard may be.
Traveling from Prescott to Jerome, you start a mile high, finish a mile high, and climb a mountain in the middle. This route rises from the expanse of the Prescott Valley abruptly to the heavily vegetated Black Hills. In Yeager Canyon, the road is visually and physically enclosed by the vegetation and canyon walls.
Descending from the top of Mingus Mountain to the Verde Valley there are spectacular views of the Mogollon Rim, San Francisco Peaks, and the red sandstone cliffs of the red rocks. This scenic road makes a smooth transition into the history of the mining area as it meets the Jerome, Clarkdale, Cottonwood Historic Road.
This Utah Scenic Byway traverses a high altitude (6,000 feet) sage plain before plunging into Indian Creek Canyon on its way to Canyonlands National Park. Along the way it passes the Dugout Ranch, one of the oldest operating cattle ranches in southeast Utah. The byway accesses Newspaper Rock BLM Recreation Site and cuts through the Canyon Rims BLM Recreation Area, a vast landscape of desert and low elevation mountain terrain with hiking and four wheeling opportunities.
Beginning at the junction of US Highway 191, 14 miles north of Monticello, the paved Byway travels west across the sage plain and descends the switchbacks into Indian Creek Canyon. It follows the canyon until the landscape opens out into a broad valley at which point the Byway accesses a county road which leads to the Abajo Mountains and Beef Basin within the larger Canyon Rims Recreation Area. The byway terminates at the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park.
No matter what season you visit, Tucson has a lot to offer
While Phoenix may offer a more metropolitan nightlife experience, Tucson can definitely hold its own when it comes to outdoor adventures and unique sights. In fact, in many ways, I prefer the relative quiet of this southwestern town over its larger cousin to the north.
Tucson is located less than two hours southeast of Phoenix and the Mexican border is roughly one hour to the south. Its proximity to Mexico has earned Tucson’s food scene major recognition—in 2015, UNESCO designated it the first “City of Gastronomy” in the United States.
The real, natural southwest captivates the imaginations of visitors fortunate enough to spend time in Tucson. Located in the Sonoran Desert, Tucson is the only place in the world the majestic saguaro cactus grows. The tall and stately cactus, stand like silent sentinels in the shadows of the five mountain ranges surrounding the Tucson valley. Tucson provides a stunning array of possibilities, satisfying culture seekers, outdoor adventurers, and fans of cowboys and cacti.
Saguaro National Park is a well-known Tucson attraction. The park is split into two by the city. The Rincon Mountain District is located to the East of Tucson and the Tucson Mountain District is located to the West. Both districts have their own visitor center, scenic drives, and hiking trail systems. In the west part, you will see plenty of the namesake cacti—the saguaro. In the east part, you will see colorful red rocks and more rugged terrain.
I highly recommend choosing several Saguaro National Park hiking trails to make the most of your time. There are both short, paved, accessible trails and day hike out in the wilderness. It all depends on what you are looking for.
The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is one of the most popular attractions in town. A world-renowned zoo, natural history museum, and botanical garden, all in one place, this is a solid introduction to plant and animal life as you’ll find in the region.
Exhibits re-create the natural landscape of the Sonoran Desert Region so realistically you find yourself eye-to-eye with mountain lions and Gila monsters. Other species found here include prairie dogs, tarantulas, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Most of this museum is outdoors, so plan accordingly. Dress comfortably and bring a hat and sunscreen.
On the northeast edge of Tucson, Sabino Canyon offers a variety of terrain including a paved path for the lighter option, or miles of rugged ground to explore. Nestled in the Santa Catalina Mountains, Sabino Canyon offers a wide range of hiking adventures for beginners and experts alike. Enjoy a relaxing stroll along the paved Sabino Canyon Trail or ride the tram along the wide, scenic path.
Sabino Canyon Tours offers a narrated, educational 45-minute, 3.8-mile tour into the foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains. The trams have nine stops along the tour with several restroom facilities and picnic grounds located near Sabino Creek. The tram turns around at Stop #9 and heads back down to the Visitor’s Center, at which point riders may remain on board and hike back down. Trams arrive on average every 30 minutes.
One of my personal favorite stops, Catalina State Park sits at the base of the Santa Catalina Mountains in northwest Tucson. Catalina is chock-full of epic mountainous backdrops, lush landscapes, towering saguaros, and trails for horses and hikers. The park is a haven for desert plants and wildlife and nearly 5,000 saguaros. If you visit in early spring, bright Mexican poppies and colorful wildflowers will greet you.
The 5,500 acres of foothills, canyons, and streams invite camping, picnicking, and bird watching—more than 150 species of birds call the park home. The park provides miles of equestrian, birding, hiking, and biking trails that wind through the park and into the Coronado National Forest at elevations near 3,000 feet.
Mount Lemmon is named after Sara Plummer Lemmon, a botanist who trekked to the 9,000-foot-plus summit with her husband in 1881. Today, it’s a great spot for outdoor adventures like hiking, camping, rock climbing, and even skiing. Yes, skiing in the Sonoran Desert.
Mount Lemmon is located in the Catalina Mountains. Follow Catalina Highway (Sky Island Scenic Byway) to explore the mountain to your heart’s content. One of the most scenic drives in southern Arizona, the paved road provides access to a fascinating land of great vistas, natural rock sculptures, cool mountain forests, and deep canyons spilling out onto broad deserts.
Tohono Chul Park
Translated from the Tohono O’odham language, Tohono Chul means “desert corner.” This 49-acre desert preserve is a leading Southwest center of desert nature, arts, and culture. This oasis in the desert provides an informative look at the region’s fascinating cultural traditions and its flora and fauna.
Plenty of cowboys can be found at Old Tucson Studios. John Wayne and Clint Eastwood are among the Hollywood legends that starred in some of the 300-plus movies and TV projects that have been filmed at Old Tucson since 1939. Today it’s a movie studio and theme park.
It’s been just over a year since Old Tucson Studios closed its doors. The famous western attraction was shuttered because of the pandemic. Now, after a long process, Pima County is getting ready to announce who will take over the lease. Be sure to check the current status before planning a visit.
Fifteen minutes south of Tucson sits an important piece of the city’s history: Mission San Xavier del Bac. This is one of the most awe-inspiring of all of the area’s attractions and is definitely worth the short drive. Mission San Xavier del Bac, also known as the White Dove of the Desert, is a magnificent building that blends Moorish, Byzantine, and late Mexican Renaissance architecture.
In 1692 Father Kino, a Jesuit missionary came to the area. Eight years later he laid the foundation for the first church. This building was named for Francis Xavier, a pioneering Christian missionary. The current church, completed in 1797, serves an active parish. Today, this site is used as both a church and a school.
A National Historic Landmark known as Complex 571-7, the Titan Missile Museum is the only remaining Titan II missile site. On one-hour guided tours you’ll descend 35 feet below ground to marvel at the intercontinental ballistic missile that in about 30 minutes could have delivered a nine-megaton nuclear warhead to a location more than 6,000 miles away.
The oldest Jesuit mission in Arizona has been preserved in Tumacácori National Historic Park. The San Cayetano del Tumacácori Mission was established in 1691 by Spanish priest Eusebio Francisco Kino. Jesuit, and later Franciscan, priests ministered to the O’odham Indians and Spanish settlers until 1848.
A self-guiding tour booklet for the Tumacácori Mission grounds can be purchased or borrowed. The walking tour of the site leads through several interlinked rooms with open doorways, and to the enclosed courtyard garden, filled by mature trees and Sonoran desert plants.
A destination for the arts, Tubac features eclectic shops and world-class galleries. Clustered in the village plaza, old adobes, Spanish courtyards, and ocotillo fences blend with a handful of newer buildings. Meandering streets are punctuated by hidden courtyards and sparkling fountains.
This village of about 1,500 people has over 100 galleries, studios, and shops, all within easy walking distance of each other. You’ll find an eclectic and high-quality selection of art and artisan works that include paintings, sculpture, pottery, metalwork, hand-painted tiles, photography, jewelry, weaving, and hand-carved wooden furniture.
Established as a Spanish presidio in 1752, Tubac was the first permanent European settlement in what later became Arizona. Those early ruins are visible in an underground exhibit at Tubac Presidio State Historic Park. Visitors also will see a museum that houses Arizona’s first printing press (demonstrations are offered), a furnished 1885 schoolhouse, and living-history exhibits.
Outdoor patio exhibits show how people lived, cooked, and worked in Spanish colonial times. The Park is home to three buildings on the National Register of Historic Places: an 1885 schoolhouse that is the third oldest in Arizona; Otero Hall, built as a community center in 1914 and now housing a collection of paintings; and a mid-20th century adobe vernacular row house.
Madera Canyon is known for exceptional and varied hiking trails. The Mount Wrightson trailhead provides access to several trails including the Super Trail and Old Baldy trail where experienced hikers can climb to higher levels. These two trails to its summit cross one another twice and make a figure eight.
Madera Canyon is a famed wildlife location, in particular for birds with over 250 recorded species. The resident birds include hummingbirds, owls, sulfur flycatchers, wood warblers, elegant trogan, wild turkeys, and quails, as well as numerous migrating birds. Other notable wildlife includes coati, black bear, raccoon, mountain lion, bighorn sheep, bobcat, and ring-tailed cat.
Tucson has preserved a flair of its American Indian and Spanish-Mexican past of a pueblo in the Sonoran Desert. The days of the Presidio de San Agustin del Tucson, the original fortress built by Spanish soldiers during the 18th century, seem not that long ago. Wandering through the recreated structure, it is easy to imagine what life was like when members of the Tohono O’odham Nation, Native American people of the Sonoran Desert, mingled there with Spanish soldiers and early Territorial Period settlers.
The neighborhood surrounding the Presidio, the Presidio Historic District, is a charming, eclectic assembly of adobe and brick buildings in Spanish-Mexican, Anglo-American, and other architectural styles of the 1920s. Many houses have been restored to their former beauty, in brilliant colors of bright green, brick red, plum-purple, and hues of blue and yellow, and their original masonry.
Worth Pondering…
Once in a lifetime, you see a place, and you know, instinctively, this is paradise.
