Posted in Arizona June 22, 2020 by

Stretching 500 Miles, U.S. Route 191 Offers One Of The Sweetest And Most Scenic Drives In Arizona

Scenic drives are pretty much around every corner here in Arizona, and we have another one for your bucket list: US-191 runs for nearly 500 miles in the Grand Canyon State, showcasing quaint small towns, winding mountain roads, and the wide-open desert landscape we all know and love.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Spanning over 1,600 miles in total, U.S. Route 191 stretches all the way from southern Arizona to the Canada-US border.
Wikimedia Commons/TheFriendlyFiend
It was designated in 1926, and is one of the longest three-digit routes in the country.
The Arizona portion of the highway measures just under 500 miles, beginning in Cochise County at the intersection with Arizona State Route 80 (SR-80) and Historic U.S. Route 80 (Historic US-80) near Douglas.
Wikimedia Commons/Daniel Schwen
Eventually, you'll cross the Gila River via Guthrie Bridge.
Wikimedia Commons/JERRYE & ROY KLOTZ MD
This beautiful, historic structure underwent a replacement in 2008-2009, but it's still just as timeless as ever.
The stretch between Springerville and Morenci is a National Scenic Byway, given the name "Coronado Trail" because it approximates the path taken by Francisco Vásquez de Coronado between 1540 and 1542.
Wikimedia Commons/Wars
This treacherous mountain road is the primary point of access to the iconic Canyon de Chelly National Monument, traversing the Navajo Nation before entering Utah.
Small towns like Witch Well, with a population of just over 4,000 permanent residents, remind us of how truly charming Arizona can be.
Wikimedia Commons/Šarūnas Burdulis
Known as "one of America's last frontiers," this little piece of the Old West has remained virtually unchanged since pioneer days.
Nothing quite compares to wide open desert roads.
Wikimedia Commons/Andreas F. Borchert
This town is called Beautiful Valley, and we couldn't agree with the name more.
With mountaintops veiled by wispy clouds, the scenery on this route never ceases to amaze.
Wikimedia Commons/Ken Lund
You'll remember these views for many years to come!

Have you ever driven on U.S. 191 in Arizona? If so, what’s your favorite sight along the way? Let us know, and check out our previous article for more scenic drives with epic windshield views: These 9 Beautiful Byways In Arizona Are Perfect For A Scenic Drive.

Address: US-191, Pearce, AZ, USA