Arizona offers so much beauty and nature to experience. If you ride a motorcycle you’ve seen it first hand. Our state offers gorgeous routes to take. Late summer to early fall is the perfect time of year to enjoy the ride.
Below are a few motorcycle rides (car rides if you prefer) that are near and dear to our hearts at Phoenix on the Cheap. Check out them all at your own pace when you can.
Phoenix to Globe
From Phoenix, take US 60 east toward Mesa, then keep on riding until you reach the town of Globe. The freedom of the highway doesn’t necessarily end. Visit all the antique stores once you are in town for a unique trip.
Globe to the White Mountains
The weather changes at night, so be prepared. The temps fall fast as the switchback road starts to twist through Salt River Canyon.
Pinetop and Show Low offer outdoor entertainment and tons of local history. But there is plenty to see in the area, so stay awhile.
Flagstaff to Sedona
The scenery is breathtaking along this Highway 89A ride– colorful hues of red and brown rock with the painted desert. Be sure to look for Slide Rock State Park’s natural waterslides. Drive slow as it can get busy on the weekends, so take it easy and soak in the glory of the sights.
Wickenburg to Prescott
Start out in Wickenburg, which gives you a peek into Western history. Head north along Highway 89 through the Prescott National Forest to Prescott itself, and stop at its famous Whiskey Row in downtown. If there is time, check out the Sharlot Hall Museum.
Prescott to Jerome
Continue east on Highway 89A to legendary Jerome, known as the “Largest Ghost Town in America.” Learn about the disastrous fires of the 1890s, part of the strange history that helped shape this little town.
The views from Jerome are picture-perfect. Take a moment to browse the shops which include handmade pottery, jewelry, and collectibles.
Jerome to Wickenburg
The slowest route back but the most beautiful is through the switchbacks, elevation changes, and stunning views along Highway 89A.
More of Arizona’s Western Scene – a ride through Tucson
Tucson to Old Tucson Studios
From Tucson, head west to arrive back in the Old West at the movie-making landmark, Old Tucson Studios.
The ride out along Gates Pass Road will take you across the hills and there it is, the native wildlife. And once you are there the reenactments of the Old West will entertain you with the gunfights and scenes of times past.
Mount Lemmon to Saguaro National Park.
Have lunch in Tucson and get back on the road for a trip north into the Santa Catalina Mountains. Its a big climb, up 6,000-plus feet in elevation along the Catalina Highway to the top of Mt. Lemmon, home of the Mt. Lemmon SkyCenter and Ski Valley.
Be sure to save time to go down the mountain to Saguaro National Park on the east side of Tucson. Ride on Cactus Forest Drive for its beautiful scenery.
Whichever route you choose, make it memorable. Take photos, meet other bikers, and enjoy the ride.
While you’re out and about, try these destinations closer to home.