Arizona Route 66

High Desert, Low Crowds

Arizona brings on a dramatic blend of high desert landscapes, rugged mountains, and towns steeped in history. Stretching nearly 400 miles from the New Mexico border to California, this part of the Mother Road showcases everything that makes a cross-country ride unforgettable. The winding highways bring on a sense of America that feels frozen in time.

You’ll enter Arizona near Luxton, passing through a wide-open desert before climbing toward Flagstaff. Farther west, towns like Kingman, Seligman, and Williams preserve the classic Route 66 ambiance, keeping the road alive.

The ride into the Black Mountains is one of the most dangerous sections of Route 66. There you’ll find Oatman Highway and Sitgreaves Pass, a thrilling series of curves and switchbacks leading to the ghost town of Oatman, where wild burros roam freely.

Arizona’s Route 66 is also famous for its unusual stops and countless Mother Road attractions that showcase the road’s illustrious past. From desert plains to pine-lined highlands, Arizona offers the perfect mix of scenic beauty and cultural elements—truly a centerpiece of the Route 66 experience.

Standing on the Corner of Route 66

Winslow looms large in the lore of Route 66. Located in northeastern Arizona, Winslow became a key stop for people crossing the high desert. Its flat, open streets offered respite and services for those making the long journey west.

Winslow’s claim to fame is immortalized in song. The intersection at Standin’ on the Corner Park is a tribute to Eagles’ 1972 hit “Take It Easy.” Today, the park draws Route 66 fans from around the world, featuring murals, statues, and plaques commemorating Winslow’s musical and cultural legacy.