Arizona’s desert landscapes are made for exploring, and one of the easiest ways to see them is from the comfort of your car. Whether you’re a snowbird looking for winter adventures, a family wanting a relaxed outing, or simply someone who loves the open road, there are plenty of scenic desert drives near San Tan Valley.
These routes show off Arizona’s wide-open skies, rugged mountains, and striking cactus-studded landscapes. The best part? Most are easy half-day or full-day trips, making them perfect if you’re staying in San Tan Valley and want to venture out without packing an overnight bag.
Best Scenic Drives Near Phoenix
San Tan Valley sits just southeast of Phoenix, which means you’re in the perfect spot to enjoy some of the best scenic drives near Phoenix. Within an hour or two, you can explore canyons, lakes, and historic towns—all without the stress of city traffic.
These drives highlight the diversity of Arizona: towering saguaros in the Sonoran Desert, rugged mountain backdrops, and winding roads that reveal hidden lakes and valleys.
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Apache Trail Drive
The Apache Trail drive (State Route 88) is one of Arizona’s most famous routes and a must-do for anyone staying in the East Valley. Starting near Apache Junction, this road winds past Canyon Lake and through the Superstition Mountains, offering incredible photo opportunities at every turn.
It’s not just about the scenery, either. Along the way, you can stop at Goldfield Ghost Town for a taste of Old West history, or at Tortilla Flat, a quirky outpost with a saloon and general store.
For snowbirds and retirees, this is a manageable but rewarding drive—plan a leisurely day, stop often, and soak in the desert views.
Arizona Desert Drives
If you want to cast a wider net, there are countless Arizona desert drives that can be reached from San Tan Valley. A few favorites include:
- US 60 to Globe – This historic route takes you through rugged desert mountains and old mining towns. The views are stunning, and Globe itself offers antique shops and restaurants worth exploring.
- State Route 79 (Pinal Pioneer Parkway) – A peaceful drive south toward Tucson with vast desert plains, dotted with giant saguaros and wide-open skies.
- Salt River Canyon Scenic Drive (US 60 past Globe) – Sometimes called the “mini Grand Canyon,” this stretch offers dramatic canyon views that rival the state’s more famous sights.
San Tan Valley Road Trips
Not every drive needs to be long. There are plenty of short San Tan Valley road trips that can be enjoyed in a few hours:
- Boyce Thompson Arboretum – Just 45 minutes away, this drive takes you through desert hills before arriving at Arizona’s largest botanical garden.
- Fountain Hills – A short trip north delivers you to the town famous for its world-class fountain and art-lined streets.
- Downtown Gilbert – For a blend of shopping, dining, and people-watching, Gilbert makes for an easy afternoon road trip.
These drives are simple, accessible, and perfect for casual outings.
Easy Scenic Drives for Seniors in San Tan Valley
Many snowbirds and retirees visiting the area prefer routes that are both beautiful and comfortable. Luckily, there are plenty of easy scenic drives for seniors in San Tan Valley.
- Queen Creek to Florence – A short loop that passes through farmland, desert plains, and historic Florence.
- San Tan Mountain Regional Park Loop – While not a highway drive, circling around the park offers great mountain views and opportunities to stop for birdwatching or short hikes.
- Gilbert to Mesa via backroads – A relaxed route with plenty of cafes and markets to stop at along the way.
These drives avoid steep grades and winding mountain roads, making them enjoyable for those who prefer a gentler outing.
Winter Scenic Drives in Arizona
For snowbirds spending the season in San Tan Valley, nothing beats a winter scenic drive in Arizona. The weather is mild, the skies are clear, and the desert is at its most inviting.
Some of the best winter drives include:
- Sedona – About 2.5 hours away, the red rock views are worth the trip. Snow sometimes dusts the cliffs in winter, creating unforgettable scenery.
- Tucson via SR 79 – Drive through desert plains with stops in Casa Grande and Florence before reaching Tucson’s cultural attractions.
- Superstition Mountains Loop – Explore the area east of San Tan Valley, with stops at trailheads, lakes, and historic towns.
Snowbird Driving Routes Near San Tan Valley
Many seasonal visitors create their own snowbird driving routes near San Tan Valley, combining short scenic drives with day-long adventures. A sample snowbird-friendly week might include:
- Monday: A short loop through San Tan Mountain Park and a picnic stop.
- Wednesday: Drive the Apache Trail, with lunch at Tortilla Flat.
- Friday: A trip to Sedona for red rock sightseeing and dinner.
Mixing short and long drives makes it easy to enjoy the outdoors while staying comfortable.
Vacation Rentals Near Scenic Drives
After a day on the road, it’s nice to return to a home base that’s relaxing and convenient. Many visitors book vacation rentals near scenic drives in San Tan Valley, giving them easy access to highways while still enjoying the peace of a residential community.
If you’re planning to focus on road trips, look for rentals close to US 60 or State Route 79. That way, you’ll be perfectly positioned for both short scenic loops and longer Arizona adventures.
For snowbirds especially, it’s worth finding a place with a patio, garage parking, and cozy living spaces to unwind after each outing.
Conclusion
Exploring the desert by car is one of the simplest—and most rewarding—ways to see Arizona. From the famous Apache Trail drive to quiet farmland loops, there are endless opportunities for scenic desert drives near San Tan Valley.
Whether you’re after dramatic canyon views, casual half-day trips, or easy scenic drives for seniors in San Tan Valley, you’ll find routes that match your pace and style.
Pair your adventures with the comfort of a vacation rental near scenic drives in San Tan Valley, and you’ll have the perfect base for road trips. With so many options, the only question is: where will you drive first?
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