From iconic desert highways to hidden mountain roads, Arizona has some of the most beautiful scenic drives in the Southwest. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a photography trip, or a full-blown Arizona road trip adventure, these scenic routes deserve a spot on your list.

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Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Drive -Sedona to Flagstaff

One of the most famous scenic drives in Arizona, Oak Creek Canyon along Highway 89A, is pure magic. This winding mountain road connects Sedona and Flagstaff, taking you from towering red rocks into cool pine forests in less than 30 miles.

Pull over at Oak Creek Vista for incredible canyon views, or stop along the creek for hiking, picnicking, and photography. Fall colors here are especially stunning.

More in Sedona: Sedona’s Most Beautiful Red Rock Drives You Need to Experience

State Route 89A: Sedona to Cottonwood

This scenic stretch between Sedona and Cottonwood is packed with classic Arizona views. Massive red rock formations tower above the roadway before slowly giving way to desert landscapes and wide-open Verde Valley views.

Once you reach Cottonwood, stroll around Old Town Cottonwood for local shops, wine tasting rooms, galleries, and restaurants. Nearby Tuzigoot National Monument is worth the stop too.

Sunset Crater and Wupatki Loop Drive

This 36-mile scenic loop near Flagstaff combines volcanic landscapes with ancient Native American history. You’ll drive past lava fields, cinder cones, wide-open desert, and centuries-old pueblo ruins.

Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument showcases one of Arizona’s youngest volcanoes, while Wupatki National Monument features remarkably preserved ancient pueblo structures surrounded by dramatic desert scenery.

Pro Tip: You will want your camera when visiting these two National Monuments. These are the places you know will probably be one in a lifetime. We love our Kodak PixPro camera when traveling. We get great pictures with it and it also has lots of video storage space.

Highway 89A: Jacob Lake to Marble Canyon

Northern Arizona doesn’t get much prettier than this drive. The route from Jacob Lake to Marble Canyon passes towering red cliffs, open desert landscapes, and incredible Colorado Plateau scenery.

The Vermilion Cliffs practically glow at sunrise and sunset. Once you reach Marble Canyon, stop at Navajo Bridge for jaw-dropping views of the Colorado River far below.

State Route 260: Camp Verde to Payson

This underrated Arizona road trip route climbs from desert terrain into the cool forests near the Mogollon Rim. Along the way, you’ll see red rock cliffs, rugged canyons, and sweeping mountain views.

Once you reach Payson, explore nearby hiking trails, Tonto National Monument, or even soak in Verde Hot Springs if you’re feeling adventurous.

Beaver Creek Road Near Rimrock

Looking for a quieter, scenic drive? Beaver Creek Road near Rimrock offers beautiful red rock scenery without the crowds.

The drive passes beneath sandstone cliffs and leads to several incredible archaeological sites, including Montezuma Castle National Monument, Montezuma Well, and the Crane Petroglyph Heritage Site.

State Route 87 (Beeline Highway)

The Beeline Highway climbs north from the Sonoran Desert toward the cooler mountain towns of Strawberry and Payson. Along the way, red rock formations, desert vistas, and forested slopes create a constantly changing landscape.

This drive is especially popular during the summer when people are escaping the Phoenix heat. While in Strawberry, hike along Fossil Creek and see the waterfalls or visit Tonto Natural Bridge State Park.

Monument Valley Scenic Drive

Few places are more iconic than Monument Valley. The 17-mile scenic dirt road through Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park takes you past massive sandstone buttes that look straight out of a western movie.

Sunrise and sunset here are unreal. The colors of the rock formations change constantly as the light shifts across the valley floor.

Highway 163: Kayenta to Monument Valley

This may be the most famous road view in America. The straight highway leading toward Monument Valley creates that classic cinematic desert highway scene you’ve probably seen in countless movies and commercials.

The closer you get, the more massive the rock formations become.

Coronado Trail Scenic Byway

If you love winding mountain roads, the Coronado Trail is one of Arizona’s most epic drives. Stretching more than 100 miles through eastern Arizona, this scenic byway features hundreds of curves, mountain forests, and remote wilderness views.

Wildlife sightings are common here, and traffic is surprisingly light.

Sky Island Scenic Byway

This drive to Mount Graham showcases Arizona’s incredible biodiversity. You’ll climb from desert terrain through several distinct ecosystems all the way into alpine forests.

At the top, visit the Mount Graham International Observatory and enjoy cooler temperatures and sweeping mountain views.

Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway (Catalina Highway)

This drive near Tucson feels like traveling across multiple states in one afternoon. Starting in the desert and climbing nearly 7,000 feet into pine forests, the scenery changes dramatically with elevation.

Windy Point Vista offers some of the best panoramic views in southern Arizona.

Joshua Forest Parkway

The route between Wickenburg and Kingman features one of the largest Joshua tree forests in the country. Thousands of these strange, spiky trees create an almost alien-looking landscape.

Honestly, the Joshua tree scenery here rivals what you’ll see in California’s Joshua Tree National Park.

Salt River Canyon Scenic Drive

Often called Arizona’s “mini Grand Canyon,” Salt River Canyon offers dramatic canyon scenery without the crowds. The steep switchbacks along U.S. Route 60 reveal colorful rock layers and sweeping canyon views.

This drive is especially beautiful during sunrise and sunset.

Jerome to Prescott Scenic Drive

This winding mountain route connects two of Arizona’s most charming historic towns. Jerome clings dramatically to the mountainside while the road over Mingus Mountain offers incredible Verde Valley views.

Hairpin turns, pine forests, and distant red rock scenery make this one of central Arizona’s most scenic drives. Add in a ghost town and it’s a perfect road trip.

Petrified Forest National Park Drive

The scenic road through Petrified Forest National Park showcases colorful Painted Desert landscapes, fossilized trees, and ancient archaeological sites.

The vibrant bands of red, purple, orange, and pink badlands almost look unreal, especially during golden hour.

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument Drives

Southern Arizona’s Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument offers some of the most beautiful desert scenery in the state. The Ajo Mountain Drive and Puerto Blanco Drive pass giant cacti, rugged mountains, and wide-open desert valleys.

This is one of the few places in the United States where organ pipe cacti grow naturally.

Patagonia to Sonoita Scenic Drive

Rolling grasslands, mountain backdrops, wineries, and historic ranchlands define this peaceful southern Arizona drive.

The area around Sonoita is Arizona wine country, so stopping at a local winery is practically mandatory. Nearby Patagonia Lake State Park is another excellent stop.

Final Thoughts

Arizona’s scenic drives are proof that sometimes the journey really is the destination. From desert highways and red rock canyons to mountain forests and remote backroads, these routes showcase just how wildly diverse Arizona truly is.

Some roads are famous. Others are hidden gems. But every single one offers incredible views, memorable stops, and that feeling of freedom that only a great road trip can give. Arizona is one of our favorite states to explore. If you need help planning a road trip, check out roadtrippers.com. They have ideas for places to stop along the way, where to eat, and places to spend the night. If you use code BTR5QTP you can save $5.

Fill up the gas tank, bring plenty of water, and don’t rush it. Arizona is best explored one scenic mile at a time. We love to share tips and information with you to help you plan your next vacation. We hope to inspire you to find your adventures, have lots of fun, and make many memories.

The post 18 Most Scenic Drives in Arizona for an Unforgettable Road Trip appeared first on scenicroutetravelers.com.

Some of the most incredible views in Sedona can be experienced right from your vehicle. Scenic highways, winding canyon roads, and quiet backroads offer nonstop views of sandstone cliffs, towering buttes, and dramatic desert landscapes that make this area one of the most beautiful destinations in Arizona.

As an Amazon affiliate, when you click on any of the links on this page and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission, at no cost to you! By using our affiliate links, you’ll find our favorite picks and support us at the same time. And we really appreciate your support!

If you’re planning a Sedona Road trip, these scenic drives belong on your list.

Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Drive

The drive between Sedona and Flagstaff along Highway 89A is easily one of the most beautiful drives in Arizona. Oak Creek Canyon feels completely different from Sedona’s desert floor, with towering canyon walls, shaded forests, and a crystal-clear creek running alongside the road.

The 28-mile drive climbs through dramatic switchbacks into cooler pine forests, offering incredible overlooks the entire way. Oak Creek Vista is one of the best stops for panoramic canyon views and photos.

During fall, this drive becomes even more spectacular when the leaves begin changing color. Summer brings a stop at Slide Rock State Park and its natural waterslide.

Pro Tip: If you’ll be there in warm weather bring your bathing suit and hit the waterslide in Slide Rock State Park.

Red Rock Scenic Byway (Highway 179)

If you only have time for one scenic drive in Sedona, make it Red Rock Scenic Byway. This stretch of Highway 179 is short but absolutely packed with iconic views.

Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Courthouse Butte dominate the landscape almost immediately after leaving town. The roundabouts along the route may slow traffic down a bit, but honestly, you’ll probably want to drive slowly anyway because the scenery is unreal.

This route is especially beautiful around sunrise and sunset when the rocks glow fiery red.

Pro Tip: Have your camera ready because you’ll want pictures of these great views. We love our Kodak PixPro camera. If you’re looking for a new camera, it takes great pictures and videos.

Schnebly Hill Road

Schnebly Hill Road offers a rougher, more adventurous side of Sedona. This dirt road climbs above the town and delivers some of the best elevated views of Sedona’s red rock country.

You’ll see sweeping views of Mitten Ridge, Munds Mountain, and the Verde Valley stretching far below. The road is rocky and wash boarded in places, so high-clearance vehicles are strongly recommended.

After rain, conditions can become rough quickly, so always check road conditions before heading out.

State Route 89A: Sedona to Cottonwood

This scenic drive from Sedona to Cottonwood gradually transitions from towering red rock cliffs into wide-open desert landscapes and Verde Valley views.

The red rock scenery is especially impressive near Dry Creek Basin, where mesas and sandstone walls rise close to the highway. As you descend toward Cottonwood, the views open dramatically.

Once you reach Cottonwood, take some time to explore Old Town Cottonwood with its local shops, wine tasting rooms, and restaurants.

Boynton Pass Road

Boynton Pass Road feels more tucked away than some of Sedona’s busier scenic drives. The road winds into a narrow valley surrounded by towering red cliffs and flat-topped mesas.

Juniper trees and pinyon pines dot the landscape while massive sandstone walls rise sharply around you. Several hiking trails and resorts are located along the route, but it still feels peaceful compared to the heart of Sedona.

This is one of the best drives if you want beautiful scenery without heavy traffic.

Dry Creek Road

Dry Creek Road heads northwest into a wide-open red rock basin filled with classic Sedona scenery. Massive formations like Chimney Rock and Capitol Butte dominate the landscape throughout the drive.

The road is fully paved and easy to drive, making it a great option for travelers looking for scenic views without steep climbs or rough terrain.

Several side roads lead to hiking trails and photography spots along the way.

Back O Beyond Road

Back O Beyond Road may be short, but the scenery is absolutely incredible. This drive takes you directly toward Cathedral Rock, one of Sedona’s most recognizable landmarks.

The massive sandstone spires rise dramatically beside the roadway, creating an almost enclosed canyon feel in places. The closer you get, the more impressive Cathedral Rock becomes.

Sunset is especially stunning here when the rocks light up deep red and orange.

Highway 179 to the Village of Oak Creek

The southern stretch of Highway 179 toward the Village of Oak Creek delivers nonstop views of Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte.

This section of road is wider and more open than many Sedona drives, allowing huge panoramic views across the valley. Because the roadway is relatively straight, it’s an easy and relaxing scenic drive for visitors who want incredible scenery without mountain curves.

While in Oak Creek do some shopping at Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village and grab a bite to eat.

Pro Tip: I really like this folding shopping bag when traveling, so if you plan on doing some shopping while visiting Sedona, you’ll want something that holds all of your treasures you purchase.

Long Canyon Road

Long Canyon Road offers a quieter, more remote feeling compared to central Sedona. Wide-open desert valleys and distant red rock formations create sweeping views in nearly every direction.

Parts of the road eventually transition to dirt, but even the paved sections offer fantastic scenery and fewer crowds. This area feels peaceful and less developed, which honestly can be a nice break from Sedona’s busier tourist areas.

Pro Tip: Take you binoculars on these drives to get great views and pics of the scenery. We love our digital binoculars from Anminto because they have 8X zoom and take great pictures.

Upper Red Rock Loop Roads

The Upper Red Rock Loop area features several smaller scenic roads winding through west Sedona. These routes offer constantly changing views of nearby cliffs, mesas, and ridges.

Traffic tends to be lighter here, making it a great area for relaxed scenic driving. You can easily combine several loop roads together for a leisurely afternoon exploring different viewpoints around Sedona.

Learn more about Sedona: Red Rocks & Vortexes: Your Ultimate Sedona Travel Guide

Tips for Driving Around Sedona

Start Early or Late

Sunrise and sunset offer the best lighting for photography and cooler temperatures for exploring.

Expect Traffic

Sedona is extremely popular, especially during spring and fall weekends. Scenic roads can get busy.

Bring Plenty of Water

Even quick scenic stops can feel hot and dry, especially during summer. We like these DYSANKY Insulated Water Bottles. They hold 64 oz. and have a bag to carry them.

Watch for Pullouts

Some of the best views are at roadside pullouts and overlooks that are easy to miss if you’re driving too fast. Watch for people pulling onto road from these pullouts.

Final Thoughts

Sedona is one of the best destinations in the Southwest for scenic driving. The red rock landscapes are incredibly accessible, and you can experience jaw-dropping views without needing a hardcore hiking itinerary.

Whether you want a quick scenic loop, a rugged backroad adventure, or a relaxing drive through towering sandstone canyons, Sedona delivers some of the most unforgettable road trip scenery in Arizona.

And honestly? Even after multiple visits, those red rocks still don’t stop looking amazing. I’m already looking forward to our next trip here.

We love sharing tips and information we learn along the way to help you plan your next vacation. We hope to inspire you to find your adventures, have lots of fun and make many memories.

The post Sedona’s Most Beautiful Red Rock Drives You Need to Experience appeared first on scenicroutetravelers.com.