Posted in Arizona July 29, 2020 by

The 43-Mile Scenic Drive In Arizona You Will Want To Take As Soon As You Can

If you’ve lived in Arizona for any significant amount of time, chances are you’ve hiked Mogollon Rim at least once — but have you ever driven it? Rim Road is a 43-mile scenic drive that showcases all the high points of this beautiful alpine landscape.

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Rim Road (also known as Forest Road 300) is a 43-mile scenic drive perfect for a quick afternoon adventure. It begins on State Road 87 and heads west, coming to an end at State Road 260.
AllTrails/Scott Dahl
An elevation gain of over 3,000 feet means you'll enjoy awe-inspiring panoramic vistas along the entire route.
While unpaved, the road is surprisingly well-maintained. High clearance vehicles aren't required -- in fact, many have completed trip in a small sedan with no issues.
AllTrails/Rob Rose
No matter what type of car you bring, drive slow enough to appreciate the towering ponderosa pines and other gorgeous scenery.
Hiking trails of various lengths and skill levels abound, presenting an opportunity to get out and stretch your legs for a while.
AllTrails/Mogollon Rim
Scenic drives are undeniably incredible, but nothing quite compares to experiencing the Great Outdoors without a windshield obstructing your view in any way. Don't forget water and snacks, especially if you plan to embark on a longer trail.
Several lakes are easily accessible from the road, whether via a short drive or brief trek through the woods. Pictured here is Knoll Lake, widely believed to have some of the clearest, most pristine waters in Arizona.
AllTrails/Kevin Mendoza
Take an invigorating dip or perhaps bring along a kayak or canoe to enjoy a relaxing paddle before hitting the road again.
Even if you never leave the car, Rim Road offers unforgettable, panoramic scenes. There are plenty of overlooks to pull off and take in the sights within the comfort of your vehicle.
AllTrails/Scott Dahl
Vistas like this jutting canyon dotted with evergreen trees practically beg for you to snap a photo.
On foggy days, the views are more awe-inspiring than ever. Take a look at this haunting scene of low, wispy clouds rolling in from the distance.
AllTrails/Kevin Mendoza
Marvel at the eerily beautiful sight from every possible angle as you meander along the winding road.
The silhouettes of looming mountains are simply ethereal to behold. Stretching up toward the clouds, the lofty peaks command the sky everywhere you look.
AllTrails/Rob Rose
You'll also see the sprawling Tonto National Forest blanketing the grounds in all directions. Truly stunning!
One of the best parts about Rim Road is that it's completely free. You can even extend your stay overnight by camping at one of many primitive sites along the way.
AllTrails/Scott Dahl
Views like this are few and far between, so we'll just soak this up as long as we can.
Rim Road is point-to-point, so you can either head back the way you came or continue east on 260. It's a choose-your-own-adventure type of situation!
AllTrails/Rob Rose
Visit the AllTrails page for the drive to learn more.

Have you ever driven down Rim Road? If so, tell us all about the experience! Check out our previous article for more bucket list-worthy scenic drives: The 8 Best Backroads In Arizona For A Long Scenic Drive.

Address: Mogollon Rim, Arizona 85541, USA