Arizona is one of those states where the drive is part of the destination. Wide-open highways, red rock views, desert canyons, and historic towns all feel made for road trips. For first-time visitors, that’s part of the magic and sometimes part of the surprise.
Spring and early shoulder seasons are also one of the best times to visit, before the summer heat settles in and long drives become more demanding. If you’re planning to explore Arizona by car, these five scenic drives belong at the top of your list. Along the way, a few local insights can help you enjoy the views without turning a dream trip into a stressful one.
1. Red Rock Scenic Byway (Sedona)
This stretch of Highway 179 is often the first “wow” moment for visitors. Towering red rock formations line the road, and nearly every turn looks like a postcard.
The drive itself is short, but it’s busy year-round. Traffic slows quickly, especially near trailheads and scenic pull-offs. Visitors often underestimate how fast conditions change here, with sunny skies that can turn into sudden rain, and tight traffic patterns that can catch drivers off guard.
Local tip: Take your time and resist the urge to stop abruptly for photos. Use designated pull-outs and plan extra time so you’re not rushed.
2. Oak Creek Canyon
Running between Sedona and Flagstaff along State Route 89A, Oak Creek Canyon feels completely different from the desert below. Cooler temperatures, pine trees, winding curves, and steep canyon walls make this one of Arizona’s most memorable drives.
It’s also one of the most technical. Sharp turns, elevation changes, and wildlife crossings are common, especially early in the morning and around sunset.
Local tip: If you’re not used to mountain driving, slow down and stay alert. This road rewards patience more than speed.
3. Historic Route 66
Few drives capture classic American road-trip nostalgia like Route 66. In Arizona, it runs through towns like Seligman, Kingman, and Williams, each offering diners, murals, and roadside attractions that feel frozen in time.
While the scenery is relaxed, the road itself can be deceiving. Long stretches, minimal lighting at night, and high speeds outside town limits are common. Many travelers underestimate fatigue here, especially after a full day of sightseeing.
Local tip: Plan fuel stops ahead of time and avoid driving this route late at night if you’re unfamiliar with the area.
4. Apache Trail (SR 88 – Partial Access)
The Apache Trail is legendary for its dramatic desert cliffs and canyon views east of Phoenix. While portions of the road remain closed due to storm damage, the accessible sections still offer stunning scenery near Canyon Lake and Tortilla Flat.
This drive includes narrow lanes, steep drop-offs, and limited guardrails in places. It’s beautiful, but it demands attention.
Local tip: Check current road conditions before you go, and don’t attempt this drive after heavy rain or in low-visibility conditions.
5. Phoenix to the Grand Canyon (via Flagstaff)
For many first-time visitors, this is the big one. The drive takes you from desert landscapes into high-elevation forests before opening up to one of the world’s most famous views.
What surprises people most is the distance. It’s longer than it looks on a map, the weather can change quickly near Flagstaff, and services become sparse as you get closer to the park.
Local tip: Start early, bring water even in cooler months, and don’t assume cell service will always be available.
A Few Driving Tips Locals Wish Visitors Knew
Before you hit the road, a little local insight can make a big difference, especially if Arizona driving is new to you.
If you’re renting a car, know the basics.
Arizona rental car insurance laws require rental vehicles to carry minimum liability coverage, but that baseline doesn’t always cover every situation. Before leaving the lot, it’s worth confirming what your rental agreement, personal policy, or credit card actually include
Arizona roads change with the seasons.
Summer heat isn’t just uncomfortable; it’s tough on vehicles. Blowouts are common, especially on long highway drives, so check tire condition before leaving the rental lot and keep water in the car. In winter, higher elevations like Flagstaff, the Grand Canyon, and parts of Oak Creek Canyon can see snow and ice, even when Phoenix feels warm. Always check the weather and road conditions before heading north.
Distances are longer than they look.
Arizona is big, and services can be far apart. Gas stations, rest stops, and cell service aren’t guaranteed once you leave major cities. Plan fuel stops ahead of time and avoid pushing through fatigue, particularly on routes like Route 66 or the drive to the Grand Canyon.
Scenic roads can still be dangerous.
Many of Arizona’s most beautiful drives include sharp curves, steep drop-offs, wildlife crossings, and limited lighting. Roads like Oak Creek Canyon and parts of the Apache Trail require full attention, not rushed schedules.
A little preparation goes a long way here. Arizona rewards drivers who slow down, plan ahead, and respect the landscape just as much as the scenery.
Final Thoughts
Arizona’s scenic drives are unforgettable for a reason. They offer variety, beauty, and a sense of freedom that’s hard to match anywhere else. With a bit of local awareness and realistic expectations, first-time visitors can enjoy every mile for the right reasons.
Plan ahead, give yourself extra time, and let the scenery do the rest.
By Gregory O'NeillGreg is a modern-day explorer with an insatiable love for travel. His passion for adventure has led him to far-flung corners of the world, where he immerses himself in diverse cultures and experiences. Greg's zest for life is epitomized by a continuous pursuit of new horizons and captivating journeys.
