Best Scenic Drives Near Scottsdale, Arizona

The desert around Scottsdale offers dramatic landscapes of saguaro cacti, granite mountains, and desert valleys. Most routes are compact but offer stunning scenery. Spring (March-April) and fall (October-November) are ideal — summer temperatures exceed 110°F.

Apache Trail — 40 Miles, 2.5-3 Hours

A historic mining road connecting Apache Junction to the Theodore Roosevelt Dam. Dramatic desert scenery with saguaro forests, mountain views, and intermittent gravel sections. The road is partially unpaved but passable in regular vehicles (use caution).

Must-see: Lost Dutchman State Park, views of the Superstition Mountains, Goldfield Ghost Town, Canyon Lake.

Details: Free to drive. Allow 2.5-3 hours for the full route. Some sections are gravel and washboard — slow down and watch for dust. Best in early morning or late afternoon. Fuel up in Apache Junction before heading out — no services along the route. Spring wildflowers (February-April) are outstanding.

Beeline Highway to Payson — 90 Miles, 2.5 Hours

A scenic climb from the desert floor at Scottsdale (2,700 feet) into the mountains near Payson (5,000+ feet). Highway 87 rises through changing landscapes: cactus to piñon-juniper forest. Dramatic elevation change creates distinct vegetation zones.

Best stops: Sunflower, Arizona (small town, historical interest), views overlooking the Arizona landscape, camping areas near Payson.

Details: Free to drive. 2.5 hours one-way. Best in fall and spring; summer can have afternoon thunderstorms. Winter occasionally brings snow at higher elevations. Road is well-maintained two-lane highway with occasional passing opportunities.

Carefree Highway (Loop 101) to Cave Creek — 20 Miles, 1 Hour

A scenic loop from North Scottsdale through the small towns of Carefree and Cave Creek. Desert hills, saguaro-studded landscape, and access to desert hiking trails. Quieter alternative to main Scottsdale roads.

Best stops: Carefree town square (shops, galleries), Cave Creek (western-themed town), Desert Foothills trailheads, panoramic overlooks of North Valley.

Details: Free to drive. 1-1.5 hours for the loop with stops. Road is paved and well-maintained. Best in morning before heat peaks. Fall and spring offer comfortable temperatures.

Bush Highway Along Salt River — 25 Miles, 1.5 Hours

A scenic drive along the Salt River through the Phoenix Valley foothills. Desert riparian corridor with river views, saguaro forests, and mountain backdrops. Includes popular recreation areas (boating, fishing, camping).

Must-see: Salt River views, Power user recreation areas, desert mountain scenery, wildlife viewing opportunities (bighorn sheep, javelina).

Details: Free to drive. 1.5 hours for the scenic route. Road surfaces vary — some paved, some graded dirt. Spring (March-April) and fall (October-November) are best. Summer is extremely hot.

McDowell Mountain Regional Park Road — 15 Miles, 1 Hour

A loop through McDowell Mountain Park north of Scottsdale featuring rugged desert mountains, saguaro-studded terrain, and valley views. The park road is scenic and offers access to hiking trails and picnic areas.

Best stops: Overlook areas within the park, various trailheads, viewpoints of Scottsdale and surrounding valley.

Details: Free park access. Allow 1 hour for the scenic loop. Road is paved and well-maintained. Best in early morning or late afternoon — midday desert heat is intense. Spring and fall offer most comfortable temperatures. Sunrise from elevated viewpoints is particularly stunning.

Tips for Desert Driving Around Scottsdale

  • Summer is brutal — Avoid June-September if possible. Temperatures exceed 110°F, and road surfaces can be damaged by heat.
  • Spring and fall are ideal — March-April and October-November offer perfect driving temperatures and best visibility.
  • Carry water — Desert driving can mean long stretches without services. Always have water in the vehicle.
  • Check road conditions — Gravel and dirt roads (Apache Trail) can become impassable after rain. Call ahead if in doubt.
  • Fuel up before remote drives — Gas stations are sparse in desert areas. Fill tanks before heading to Apache Trail or Payson.
  • Sunrise and sunset are magical — Desert light is most dramatic early morning and evening.

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