Take This Road To Nowhere In Arizona To Get Away From It All

In the society we live in today, stress comes all too easily. In no time, you can find yourself worried about everything: work, relationships, traffic, bills. One of the best ways to combat that stress? Temporarily removing yourself from environmental stressors and spending some time alone to reflect on what’s going on in your life is pretty nice. Some people do this through journaling, going for a run, or, in some cases, going out for a good drive. Taking a lunch break from life to do something enjoyable by yourself for yourself can actually be restorative to your physical and mental health. So why not pair a long drive with some beautiful scenery like what you'll find along State Route 89A? It's easily one of the best scenic drives in Arizona - and you'll see why immediately!

For your convenience, check out these driving directions on Google Maps. The directions start just south of Flagstaff and will lead you through the Verde Valley down to the outskirts of Prescott Valley and Prescott. So, let's check out a few of the landscape highlights you'll encounter on this drive to put you in a calmer state of mind. Don't forget to take a moment to pull over to admire the view! It's well-known as one of the most scenic places in Arizona for lot of reasons, and you're about to learn why!

Oak Creek Vista is one of many overlooks that shows off the area's beauty.

The road dramatically winds through Oak Creek Canyon and stunning ponderosa pine forest. It's an especially pretty sight when covered with fresh snow.

You'll soon move into the red-rock territory of Sedona. This area is stunning and definitely worth a stop if you need some time to think.

The threshold between Sedona and the Verde Valley lies here, as does total relaxation and mental restoration. The beauty of State Route 89A is something you don't just find anywhere.

A few miles in, this is what you'll see in the mirror: a dramatic change in the landscape.

Drive through towns like Cottonwood and Jerome. The overlook in Jerome is one of the most scenic places in Arizona, as you'll be able to see all the way to Sedona from there.

And then, you'll drive into the flatter landscapes near Prescott. You can drive into Prescott via SR 89, or turn around to embrace life with a newfound insight.

Want ideas for more of the best scenic drives in Arizona? Check out our article from June, These 9 Beautiful Byways In Arizona Are Perfect For A Scenic Drive.