There’s no denying the indescribable beauty of the Grand Canyon. After all, it’s one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Even still, the constant influx of tourists makes it difficult to really connect with nature during your visit. I’m happy to share that there are several lesser-known canyons in Arizona that look just like the Grand Canyon… minus the crowds. One of them is the Salt River Canyon, located between Globe and Roosevelt Lake.

The Salt River Canyon Scenic Drive features an overlook that lets you see for miles – and instead of hearing people talking, you can enjoy the sound of the river rushing through the canyon walls. If you’re curious to know more, read on to learn more about this treasure worth visiting when you’re in Arizona.

If you love the Grand Canyon but aren't a fan of the crowds, the Salt River Canyon Scenic Drive offers strikingly similar views with a small fraction of the tourism.
TripAdvisor/Gaby Motuloh
The road along one of the most impressive scenic byways in Arizona is about a 30-mile stretch of U.S. 60. The route runs alongside the Salt River between Globe and Roosevelt Lake.
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Only around 15 miles long (compared to the Grand Canyon's 277 miles), the Salt River Canyon may not seem like an attraction worth visiting - but from above, you can hardly tell the difference.
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Both canyons feature towering rock walls that rise on either side of a swiftly flowing river. If you roll down your windows, you can hear the powerful roar of the water below as you explore one of the best drives in Arizona.
TripAdvisor/salesproquo

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You will encounter several sharp curves and hairpin turns, however, they are doable as long as you go the speed limit. Plus, an added bonus of driving slow is really taking time to soak up the scenery on Salt River Canyon Drive.
TripAdvisor/Gaby Motuloh
There are several pullouts along this scenic byway in Arizona, so you can stop and take pictures or simply enjoy the beautiful nature with your own two eyes.
TripAdvisor/Gaby Motuloh
Even better, a rest stop at the bottom of the canyon boasts picnic tables just steps away from the river. Follow a path down to the waterfront for a better view of the impressive scenery.
TripAdvisor/Klara C
Topping off the experience is the old Salt River Canyon Bridge, which is open to pedestrian traffic only. Looking down to see the water rush through the canyon is truly incredible! Hence, another reminder of why this is one of the best drives in Arizona.
TripAdvisor/Cranking Chick

 

To help you plan for your adventure along the Salt River Canyon Scenic Drive, take a look at our ultimate road trip packing list. In this resource, you’ll find useful tips and ideas that’ll make your outing more memorable.

Have you already had the chance to explore Salt River Canyon Drive? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience in the following comments section. After checking out Salt River Canyon, feel free to also take a look at our coverage of little-known canyons in Arizona for suggestions on where to go next.

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More to Explore

Scenic Drives In Arizona

Marla S. | August 28, 2023

What are some of the best scenic byways in Arizona? 

In addition to Salt River Canyon Scenic Drive, here are some of the most scenic byways in Arizona that we think are worth the trip.

  • The Coronado Trail Scenic Byway: Along with forests and other natural landscapes, there are plenty of small towns on this 120-mile route to explore as well.
  • Dinétah Scenic Road: We think you'll have an amazing experience during this special drive that goes right through the Navajo Nation in Arizona.
  • Joshua Forest Scenic Road: Aside from getting to appreciate the stunning Joshua Trees along this scenic byway in Arizona, you'll also drive through the Mojave and the Sonoran deserts when you take this road trip.

 

What are some of the best drives in Arizona on back roads? 

Following is an overview of some of the best drives in Arizona on back roads:

  • Catalina Highway: In addition to zipping by an array of landscapes including cacti and mountains, this scenic drive begins in Tucson and heads up Mt. Lemmon.
  • Fredonia-Vermillion Cliffs Scenic Road: This stunning trip in the northern part of Arizona goes through the Kaibab Plateau.
  • San Francisco Peaks Scenic Road: We recommend having your camera on hand for this scenic drive in Northern Arizona that offers stunning vantage points of The Peaks.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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