Most Scenic Road Trips in Phoenix, United States

1. Salt River Canyon Scenic Drive

A breathtaking journey along the Salt River canyon, offering panoramic views of the cliffs and river below.

Scenic Vistas: Exceptional landscapes with steep canyon walls, lush greenery, and the Salt River flowing below.
Adventure Opportunities: Hiking trails, fishing spots, and chances to spot local wildlife like eagles and bears.
Historical Significance: Passing by the remnants of old pioneer cabins and mining sites from the early settlement days.

An adventure-filled route passing through Superstition Mountains, featuring Canyon Lake, Tortilla Flat, and Apache Wash.

Scenic Beauty: Stunning vistas of the Superstition Wilderness, rock formations, and Canyon Lake.
Local Flavor: Stopping at the historic town of Tortilla Flat for food and souvenirs.
Recreational Activities: Boating, fishing, and camping opportunities at Canyon Lake.

A scenic drive through Phoenix's desert landscape with mountain views and easy access to local attractions.

Scenic Vistas: Desert landscapes, mountain ranges, and city skyline views.
Convenience: Close proximity to popular destinations like Scottsdale, Tempe, and the Phoenix Zoo.
Nightlife: Easy access to various dining, entertainment, and nightlife options along the route.

A picturesque drive around the Red Mountains, showcasing beautiful red rock formations and desert landscapes.

Scenic Vistas: Stunning red rock formations, diverse plant life, and panoramic mountain views.
Hiking Opportunities: Access to several hiking trails like the Red Mountain Multi-Use Trail and Government Canyon Loop.
Photography Spots: Plenty of scenic pull-offs for capturing memorable photos of the breathtaking landscape.

A tranquil drive through a desert oasis filled with unique cacti and other native flora.

Scenic Beauty: Desert gardens showcasing over 50,000 plants, including rare and endangered species.
Educational Opportunities: Informative signs, guided tours, and workshops to learn about desert ecosystems.
Wildlife Sightings: Possible encounters with local wildlife like javelinas, rabbits, and various bird species.

A leisurely drive through the charming town of Carefree, with views of surrounding mountain ranges and beautiful homes.

Scenic Vistas: Mountain ranges, rolling desert landscapes, and unique architectural designs.
Local Artwork: Outdoor sculptures and art installations throughout the town of Carefree.
Shopping & Dining: Casual cafes, boutique shops, and art galleries in Carefree's quaint downtown area.

A step back in time at this old mining town with historic buildings, museums, and scenic mountain views.

Historical Significance: A well-preserved ghost town showcasing the era of Arizona's gold rush.
Scenic Vistas: Stunning views of Superstition Mountains and the surrounding desert landscape.
Recreational Activities: Riding the Goldfield Train, exploring historic mines, and panning for gold.

A scenic drive through Phoenix's diverse mountain ranges with numerous hiking trails and wildlife sightings.

Scenic Vistas: Stunning views of the city skyline, desert landscapes, and five different mountain ranges.
Hiking Opportunities: Access to over 160 miles of hiking trails throughout the Phoenix Mountains Preserve.
Wildlife Sightings: Possible encounters with local wildlife like javelinas, bobcats, and various bird species.

A protected desert wilderness featuring unique geological formations, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes.

Scenic Beauty: Jaw-dropping landscapes with sand dunes, rocky outcroppings, and desert flora.
Educational Opportunities: Guided tours, informative signs, and brochures about the Sonoran Desert ecosystem.
Wildlife Sightings: Possible encounters with unique desert wildlife like javelinas, roadrunners, and rattlesnakes.

A picturesque drive around Lake Pleasant with beautiful views of the lake and surrounding desert landscapes.

Scenic Vistas: Stunning vistas of Lake Pleasant, the desert landscape, and nearby mountain ranges.
Recreational Activities: Boating, fishing, camping, and hiking opportunities at Lake Pleasant Regional Park.
Wildlife Sightings: Possible encounters with local wildlife like desert bighorn sheep, coyotes, and various bird species.

A scenic drive through a desert wilderness with access to hiking trails, horseback riding, and beautiful vistas.

Scenic Vistas: Desert landscapes, rocky outcroppings, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Hiking Opportunities: Access to several hiking trails within the park, including the Spur Cross Trail.
Recreational Activities: Horseback riding, picnicking, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

A scenic drive to a natural limestone bridge, offering breathtaking views and hiking trails.

Scenic Beauty: Stunning vistas of the limestone bridge, canyon, and surrounding wilderness.
Hiking Opportunities: Trails leading to the bottom of the canyon and behind the natural bridge.
Geological Wonders: Observing the massive limestone bridge, one of the largest of its kind in the world.

A scenic drive to a desert oasis with hiking trails, wildlife sightings, and historic mining ruins.

Scenic Beauty: Desert landscapes, rocky outcroppings, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Hiking Opportunities: Access to several hiking trails within the park, including the Superstition Mountains Trail.
Historical Significance: Exploring old mining camps and ruins from the gold rush era.

A scenic drive through the Verde Valley wine country with vineyard tours, tastings, and stunning landscapes.

Scenic Beauty: Rolling hills, vineyards, and picturesque countryside views.
Tasting Opportunities: Wine tastings at various vineyards along the trail.
Local Flavor: Visiting charming towns, art galleries, and local shops in the Verde Valley region.

A scenic section of the Arizona National Scenic Trail, featuring desert landscapes, mountain views, and wildlife sightings.

Scenic Beauty: Desert landscapes, rocky outcroppings, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Hiking Opportunities: Access to a section of the Arizona National Scenic Trail with scenic vistas and wildlife sightings.
Wildlife Sightings: Possible encounters with local wildlife like javelinas, coyotes, and various bird species.