Desert Foothills Scenic Drive
A beautiful stretch of Scottsdale Road showcasing iconic saguaro cacti and vast desert vistas, perfect for photography and peaceful drives.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, pleasant temps
Desert Foothills Scenic Drive
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, pleasant temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beautiful stretch of Scottsdale Road showcasing iconic saguaro cacti and vast desert vistas, perfect for photography and peaceful drives.
"It's a gorgeous stretch with views of Boulders and Black Mountain."
🚗 It's Scottsdale Rd!
The scenic drive is a stretch of Scottsdale Rd. Look for signs naming plants, not just off-road trails.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Ideal for engagement, baby, or family photos with stunning desert backdrops.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Saguaro Cactus Forests
Along Scottsdale Road
Towering saguaro cacti create an iconic Sonoran Desert panorama. Perfect for that classic Arizona photo.
Panoramic Desert Vistas
Various pull-offs
Enjoy sweeping views of rolling hills, distant mountains, and the vast desert expanse.
Plant Identification Signs
Along the drive
Informative signs identify native desert flora, adding an educational element to your journey.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand the 'Scenic Drive'
Best for Photos & Quiet Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 It's Scottsdale Rd!
The scenic drive is a stretch of Scottsdale Rd. Look for signs naming plants, not just off-road trails.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Ideal for engagement, baby, or family photos with stunning desert backdrops.
⚠️ Check for Construction
Some visitors report construction. Check local advisories before you go.
🌵 Respect the Desert
Stay on marked paths if exploring off-road. Many cacti are present; admire from a distance.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 It's Scottsdale Rd!
The scenic drive is a stretch of Scottsdale Rd. Look for signs naming plants, not just off-road trails.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Ideal for engagement, baby, or family photos with stunning desert backdrops.
⚠️ Check for Construction
Some visitors report construction. Check local advisories before you go.
🌵 Respect the Desert
Stay on marked paths if exploring off-road. Many cacti are present; admire from a distance.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a peaceful meal amidst the desert beauty. Many find it a great spot for a quiet picnic.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Desert Foothills Scenic Drive for its stunning saguaro cactus landscapes and peaceful atmosphere, making it ideal for photography and picnics. However, some confusion exists regarding the drive's identity as Scottsdale Road, and occasional construction can be a minor detractor. Off-road trails are present but require specific vehicles.
"Be advised! The Desert Foothills Scenic Drive IS SCOTTSDALE RD! And a gorgeous stretch at that. The confusion, I think along with it being a commuter road, is at the "1st Exhibit" that you can pull off to read "drive up to" signs or get out and do a walking tour of plants, there is also the beginning of some dirt roads, and like us, a bunch of reviewers thought that THAT was the scenic drive and had some "fun" off-roading it on some windy signless goes nowhere jeep trails. We did have fun, but it did not line up with what the map shows - a straight line that SAYS Scottsdale Rd up to Carefree Hwy with views of Boulders and Black Mountain. This seems pretty straightforward enough but we were not the only ones getting lost, maybe it gives the locals a little chuckle. The website states that the Scenic Drive IS a section of Scottsdale Rd, and what to expect to see, but if you're looking with the off-roads in mind it could still be a little confusing. So us dummies out here are overthinking it or not paying attention, bc what I did find was the INITIAL SIGN on Scottsdale Rd at both entry points says "Drive next 6 miles" DUH. Also, the website describes signs "exhibits" along the side of the road that name plants, which we eventually did see along Scottsdale Rd, and which there are none of on the off roads: Pictured below. At least we are not the only ones. Actually, the reviews are partially what threw me off, or should I say ON to the dirt roads. So here is my contribution to clarify. I love the history I learned trying to figure out what's what, and that the community preserved the Scottsdale roadside as best they could from development and it's maintained by volunteers. This was before the area became desirable for upscale neighborhoods, and probably directly related to it, preserving land is always valuable! The signs along the way naming plants are cool, and so were the epic views heading north. 4 stars bc they could use a little clarification."
Nerissa E
"Nice place to visit the wife and I travel all over Az. To see the Grand Canyon and more we took the the back road in Scottsdale and
Found this beautiful place we took some pictures but didn’t take The rental car on to the trail it looks very sandy and didn’t want to get lost or stuck out there but if anyone has a four wheel drive good luck with that and enjoy 😉"
Raul Heredia (rockinraul57)
"Fun free drive. Need a truck or 4x4, this is off-road and not suitable for sedan. Many large cacti, large trail area."
Maria Kryuchkova
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Desert Foothills Scenic Drive is primarily a section of Scottsdale Road, heading north from the city. Look for signs identifying native plants along the roadside. Some visitors note the entrance can be 'almost hidden.'
The drive follows Scottsdale Road north towards Carefree Highway. The 'scenic' aspect is the landscape along this stretch, not a separate, marked route.
Using GPS for Scottsdale Road will guide you along the main drive. Be aware that some off-road trails might appear on maps but are not part of the official scenic drive.
The main scenic drive along Scottsdale Road is paved and suitable for all vehicles. However, some off-road trails branching off may require a truck or 4x4.
The drive is essentially a segment of Scottsdale Road. You can enter it by heading north on Scottsdale Road from central Scottsdale.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Desert Foothills Scenic Drive is a public road and is free to access. You can drive or stop along it without any admission cost.
As it's a public road, there are no official operating hours. You can drive it at any time, though daylight hours are best for sightseeing and photography.
No tickets or reservations are needed. It's a free, open road for anyone to enjoy the desert scenery.
Yes, there are signs along the drive that identify native desert plants, offering an educational aspect to the experience.
While you can drive the road at night, it's not recommended for sightseeing as the primary appeal is the desert landscape and plant life, which are best viewed in daylight.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
The drive is renowned for its stunning saguaro cactus forests and panoramic desert vistas, making it perfect for landscape and portrait photography.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for capturing the desert's beauty.
While there aren't designated viewpoints, numerous spots along Scottsdale Road allow you to pull over safely and capture the expansive desert scenery.
Drone footage is popular for showcasing the vastness of the desert landscape. Always check local drone regulations before flying.
It's excellent for landscape, nature, and portrait photography, especially for engagement shoots or family portraits against a unique desert backdrop.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The drive itself is more about the scenery. However, there are dining options in nearby Scottsdale and Carefree. Some catering services operate in the area for events.
Yes, many visitors enjoy picnics. There are no designated picnic areas, but you can find quiet spots to pull over and enjoy your meal.
You'll find a range of restaurants in Scottsdale, from casual to upscale. For a unique experience, consider checking out the dining options in nearby Carefree.
Food delivery services might be available depending on your exact location along Scottsdale Road, but it's generally recommended to bring your own food or dine in nearby towns.
You're unlikely to find cafes directly on the scenic stretch of Scottsdale Road. It's best to stop in Scottsdale or Carefree for coffee or snacks.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't playgrounds, the drive itself is engaging for kids, especially if you point out the tall saguaro cacti and talk about desert animals. The plant identification signs can also be a fun learning experience. Remember to bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water, as desert conditions can be intense.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Drone pilots will find ample opportunity to capture breathtaking aerial views of the Sonoran Desert. The golden hour light here is particularly magical, offering dramatic shadows and warm hues. Be sure to check local regulations for drone usage and always respect the fragile desert environment.
🚗 Off-Road Enthusiasts
These trails offer a more rugged desert exploration experience. However, it's crucial to be prepared, stay on marked paths to avoid getting lost or stuck, and understand that these are separate from the paved scenic drive.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the 'Scenic Drive'
To make the most of your visit, understand that the 'drive' is about appreciating the natural beauty along the existing road. Look for the informative signs that identify various desert plants, which are a key feature mentioned by visitors. If you're interested in off-roading, be aware that these trails are separate and may require a 4x4 vehicle, and they don't necessarily align with the intended scenic route.
Key takeaway: Focus on the paved Scottsdale Road for the intended scenic experience. The off-road trails are a different adventure altogether and not the primary 'scenic drive' experience.
Photography Hotspot
Many visitors use this drive specifically for photoshoots, including engagement, family, and even baby announcements. The natural light, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, enhances the desert's colors and textures, making for truly memorable images. The presence of plant identification signs also adds an educational and visually interesting element to the landscape.
Pro-tip: While the main drive is paved, some off-road areas might offer unique perspectives, but always prioritize safety and respect for the environment. Ensure you have plenty of battery life and storage space on your camera or phone to capture the stunning scenery.
Community Insights & Tips
Many recommend it for its peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity for picnics amidst the desert beauty. It's also noted as a great place to simply clear your head and enjoy some music while taking in the views.
Be mindful of potential construction that can sometimes affect parts of the drive. Also, if you plan to explore any off-road trails, ensure you have the appropriate vehicle, like a truck or 4x4, as these areas can be sandy and challenging.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit