AMERICA, ONE BEAUTIFUL ROAD AT A TIME

Sky Island Scenic Byway

Arizona
Take your time. Make a few stops. Enjoy the view.
Steep Cliffs along the Sky Island Parkway · Public Domain. · Photo credits
THE JOURNEY IS THE REASON TO GO

Let the road set the pace.

Start your journey among giant saguaro cacti of the Sonoran desert and climb to shady conifer forests at nearly 9,000 feet, passing biological diversity equivalent to a drive from Mexico to Canada in just 27 miles. Enjoy spectacular views and recreational opportunities from hiking and camping to picnicking and skiing.

The experienceNational Scenic Byway
Start with this outlineChoose a section of the named byway
The Sky Island Parkway features a daunting view of the sheer cliffs that line the highway. Road-construction cones warn drivers away from a damaged railing in this photo.
Steep Cliffs along the Sky Island Parkway
Public Domain. · Photo credits

Before you drive

Choose your stops before departure and check current road access, weather and vehicle suitability. A byway listing does not guarantee that every section or visitor facility is open.

Make it a satisfying day

Choose a realistic section, then allow time for viewpoints, a town stop and breaks. Scenic mileage rarely tells the whole story of how long an outing will take.

Match the road to your vehicle

Check the exact roads for your car, RV or motorcoach. Tunnel dimensions, turning space, grades and road surfaces can matter as much as distance.

Official route information ↗State road-condition links ↗

Route overview and designation: Federal Highway Administration, America’s Byways. Research: October 2026. This is a travel idea, not live navigation or a guarantee that the full route is open. Confirm exact roads, current conditions, parking and any attraction reservations before departure.