Getting Around Arizona

Part of our Arizona guide.

Three scenic drives in Arizona offer distinct ways to experience the state’s landscapes, from a mountain ascent to a wildlife safari and a canyon rim route.

Sky Island Drive: A Thrilling Ride On Mount Lemmon

Sky Island Drive on Mount Lemmon climbs nearly 6,000 feet in elevation from the desert floor to pine forests in about two hours. The route passes through multiple climate zones, with saguaro cacti at the base and pine trees at the summit. Overlooks reveal the surrounding valleys. Pack a picnic and bring your camera for the rock formations and diverse wildlife.

Wild Encounters Await At Bearizona's Drive-Through Safari

Bearizona's drive-through safari in Williams, Arizona, lets you see bears, wolves, bison, and other wildlife from your car. The three-mile route winds through natural habitats where animals roam freely. You can watch bears amble across the road or spot a wolf pack in action without leaving your vehicle. The park also includes a walk-through area with smaller animals. It is open daily, and tickets are purchased at the gate.

Scenic Wonders Of Desert View Drive Grand Canyon

Desert View Drive runs 25 miles along the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, with pullouts at several viewpoints. Each stop offers a different perspective of the canyon’s layers and the Colorado River below. The drive ends at Desert View Watchtower, a historic stone structure built in 1932 that provides panoramic views. Along the way you can see the Canyon’s geological history in the rock walls. For those interested in the region’s more remote attractions, the area is rich with canyon secrets and caves in Arizona that reward further exploration.