Prescott, Arizona: Your Destination Along the Grand Canyon 
Scenic Circle Drive 

Prescott, AZ - The Grand Canyon isn't Arizona's only scenic 
treasure. Most people who visit Arizona spend some time at 
the Grand Canyon. The most common route for getting there 
is to fly into Phoenix, then take I-17 all the way to Flagstaff 
and either go through Williams via I-40 to Highway 64 or 
take Highway 180 from Flagstaff. This route may be the 
most direct, but for those who want to see more of Arizona's 
scenic wonders, an alternate route via the Grand Canyon 
Scenic Circle is just the ticket.  

Start in Phoenix and take Highway 89 through Wickenburg 
to Prescott (69 miles). This drive offers some breathtaking 
views of Arizona's farming and ranching country as the road 
takes you thousands of feet up into the mountains and pines 
of the Prescott National Forest.  

When you reach Prescott spend a few days exploring 
Arizona's first Territorial Capital. A historic walking tour of 
downtown Prescott will take you on a journey through time. 
Shopping, dining and entertainment are plentiful along 
Whiskey Row in downtown Prescott. Three museums, 
Sharlot Hall Museum, Phippen Museum, and Smoki 
Museum, boast informative exhibits on Arizona's territorial 
history and native cultures. 

Over 450 miles of recreational trails wind through the 
Prescott National Forest offering 
enjoyment for hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders. 
Be sure to pack your golf clubs because Prescott has five 
public courses to choose from. Stay in one of Prescott's 
historic hotels, inns or bed and breakfasts. 

After you've explored Prescott continue your journey to the 
Grand Canyon via Highway 89-A. This route will take you on 
Arizona's most scenic drive, as rated by Fodor's Travel 
Guide. The winding road will take you up Mingus Mountain 
to Arizona's newest ghost town, Jerome. From there, 
continue to Sedona and its majestic red rocks. A scenic drive 
through Oak Creek Canyon will take you to Flagstaff where 
you can continue to the Grand Canyon via Highway 180, or 
pass through Williams via I-40 to Highway 60. Your 
return trip to Phoenix can be via I-17. 

Your Arizona experience will be complete when you take the 
time to see some of our other scenic wonders. For driving 
maps of the Grand Canyon Scenic Circle contact the 
Prescott Chamber of Commerce at 1-800-266-7534.