Desert Foothills Scenic Drive

Desert Foothills Scenic Drive
Scottsdale, AZ
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The Desert Foothills Scenic Drive showcases desert plants and connects Scottsdale, Arizona with the desert communities of Carefree and Cave Creek.  The Scenic Drive makes it easy for visitors to learn the names of cacti, trees and other plants that thrive in this uniquely beautiful area.

Desert Foothills Scenic Drive
The Scenic Drive (maroon) is the northern-most part of Scottsdale Road extending from Happy Valley Road northward to Carefree Highway, a distance of six miles.

The Scenic Drive is easily accessed from downtown Scottsdale by taking Scottsdale Road north.   The exhibit area is on the east side of Scottsdale Road about 1/4 mile south of Jomax Road.

Pima Road loop drive
Another view is two miles east of Scottsdale along North Pima Road.  The Pima loop drive begins at Happy Valley Road and extends northward to Cave Creek Road, then west to Tom Darlington Drive (Scottsdale Road in Carefree).  Go south on Tom Darlington and you will connect with Scottsdale Road.

We suggest taking Scottsdale Road outbound on your trip and Pima Road for the return.   By driving the Desert Foothills Scenic Drive first you will have a chance to learn the names of the various plants that you will see on your trip.

Pinnacle Peak loop drive
To take the Pinnacle Peak loop drive go east on Dynamite Road from either Scottsdale Road or Pima Road.  Go south on Alma School Parkway to Happy Valley Road. Take Happy Valley Road west to Pima Road.

The night lights of the Valley of the Sun are best seen while you are heading west (downhill) on Happy Valley Road.

The length of this drive is 7 1/2 miles from the intersection of Pima and Dynamite Roads to the intersection of Pima and Happy Valley Roads.

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