When it comes to scenic drives in Arizona, it’s hard to beat a road that runs through the entire state! That’s exactly what you’ll find on U.S. Route 191, the longest highway here in State 48. It leads from the U.S./Mexico border all the way up to the Utah state line, and the views along the way are nothing short of breathtaking.

Stretching from the Utah state line all the way down to near Douglas, just north of the U.S.-Mexico border, U.S. Route 191 is the longest highway in Arizona.

Wikimedia Commons/TheFriendlyFiend The entire drive is 517 miles long - a serious road trip, but you don’t have to traverse the whole length of the road to appreciate its beauty.

A nature lover’s dream, the highway features everything from rugged mountains to dense forests to sparse desert terrain.

Wikimedia Commons/Wars It showcases all of Arizona’s unique landscapes, and you’re sure to fall in love with the state all over again.

There are two designated tourist routes within the highway: the Coronado Trail Scenic Byway and the Tse’nikani Flat Mesa Rock Scenic Road.

Wikimedia Commons/U.S. National Archives and Records Administration

Embarking on the Coronado Trail Scenic Byway takes you through the White Mountains area, with its dense forestland, sprawling meadows, intense fall foliage, and - of course - the iconic Mogollon Rim.

Wikimedia Commons/U.S. National Archives and Records Administration

On the other hand, the Tse’nikani Flat Mesa Rock Scenic Road, located on the Navajo Nation, is characterized by fiery red mesas juxtaposed with gently babbling streams.

Wikimedia Commons/Ken Lund

You will also pass a number of remarkable engineering feats, including the Guthrie Bridge spanning the Gila River.

Wikimedia Commons/JERRYE & ROY KLOTZ MD

U.S. Route 191 is one of the least-traveled federal highways, and it doesn’t cut through any major cities.

Wikimedia Commons/Šarūnas Burdulis All of the towns you’ll encounter along the way are small and charming, and they beg for you to stop and explore.

The route overlaps with many other highways, so it’s perfect for a quick - or long - detour. Or, indulge your wanderlust and just see where the road takes you!

Wikimedia Commons/Daniel Schwen

Have you ever taken a ride on U.S. Route 191? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience in the comments!

Wikimedia Commons/TheFriendlyFiend

The entire drive is 517 miles long - a serious road trip, but you don’t have to traverse the whole length of the road to appreciate its beauty.

Wikimedia Commons/Wars

It showcases all of Arizona’s unique landscapes, and you’re sure to fall in love with the state all over again.

Wikimedia Commons/U.S. National Archives and Records Administration

Wikimedia Commons/Ken Lund

Wikimedia Commons/JERRYE & ROY KLOTZ MD

Wikimedia Commons/Šarūnas Burdulis

All of the towns you’ll encounter along the way are small and charming, and they beg for you to stop and explore.

Wikimedia Commons/Daniel Schwen

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Address: U.S. 191, US-191, Safford, AZ, USA