Directions

Desert Foothills Scenic Drive

The Scenic Drive (maroon) is the northern-most part of Scottsdale Road and extends 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

Pima Road (yellow) is two miles east of Scottsdale.  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 (green) 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.