Pinal Pioneer Parkway: Scenic Back Road In Arizona

There are many ways to get from Point A to Point B. The most convenient option is, of course, the freeway. However, if you’re like me, you crave driving roads that aren’t so, well, boring. I love a good scenic drive and if you’re traveling between Phoenix and Tucson anytime soon, how about getting off the I-10 and onto the Pinal Pioneer Parkway instead? If you haven’t taken this scenic back road in Arizona yet, consider it for your next road trip.

If you've traveled between Phoenix and Tucson, chances are you've driven along the I-10 between the two cities. I find highway driving quite boring and monotonous so when I find a scenic byway to take me to my destination, I tend to take that instead.

So, here's a scenic byway that will take you off the I-10 through small towns and beautiful desert scenery instead -- the Pinal Pioneer Parkway! Are you ready for this adventure?

Also known as State Route 79, the Pinal Pioneer Parkway is a 58-mile stretch of road between the towns of Florence and Oracle. If you're starting in Florence, there's not much to see in the first few miles. But be patient! It'll start to get really scenic after driving a few miles.

The desert landscape is quite beautiful as you travel this byway. And there are several points of interest as well as historic sites along the way.

For one, there's the Tom Mix Memorial right along the road. You can stop here, take a look at this landmark, and maybe have a picnic.

McFarland State Historic Park is another place that's worth a stop. This was the first state park in Arizona and it offers a museum where you can learn the history of the area.

Before you continue on your journey, you must stop at the Saint Anthony's Greek Orthodox Monastery. Located in Florence, this is a stunning hidden gem that was built in the 1950s. When you stop here, take a stroll on the grounds and a self-guided tour of the buildings.

Scenic byways take you through towns and past points of interest you never would have seen had you stayed on the freeway. So, I highly suggest you get off the freeway and take the scenic route, like the Pinal Pioneer Parkway between Phoenix and Tucson!

Have you ever taken the Pinal Pioneer Parkway? What’s your favorite scenic back road in Arizona? Let us know! For a little more information and reviews, visit the Pinal Pioneer Parkway page on AllTrails. If you feel like stopping to take a hike or two along this scenic drive, download the AllTrails+ app to find the closest trails.

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Get Off The Freeway And Onto This Scenic Back Road Between Phoenix And Tucson, Arizona

Melissa Mahoney

Author

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