10 Scenic Routes Near Fountain Hills You’ll Love
If you’re planning to explore Fountain Hills, Arizona, renting a car is the perfect way to experience the breathtaking desert landscapes and charming small-town vibes. Fountain Hills is known for its iconic fountain, but beyond that, it offers a variety of scenic routes that are best enjoyed behind the wheel.
Whether you’re seeking a thrilling drive through the desert, a peaceful cruise by the lake, or a winding mountain road, Fountain Hills has it all. Renting an exotic or luxury car adds an extra layer of excitement to your trip, turning your drive into an adventure.
With countless picturesque routes that offer stunning views of Arizona’s natural beauty, you’ll find that the journey is just as rewarding as the destination. Whether you’re a local or visiting, these scenic drives are the perfect way to make the most of your time in Fountain Hills.
You can also check- How to Choose the Right Car Rental in Fountain Hills
1. Beeline Highway (AZ SR 87) – Fountain Hills to Payson (50-Minute Drive)
Starting in Fountain Hills, Beeline Highway takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes Arizona has to offer. The route begins with the dry, expansive Sonoran Desert, full of towering saguaro cacti.
As you drive further, you’ll begin to climb the Mazatzal Mountains, where the desert transitions into lush forests filled with ponderosa and juniper pines. This road provides amazing panoramic views, making it perfect for scenic photography.
Along the way, you can explore hiking trails in the Tonto National Forest, adding a bit of adventure to your drive. Renting a comfortable car or convertible enhances this beautiful route, allowing you to fully enjoy the scenery.
2. Bush Highway (20-Minute Drive)
Bush Highway is a 15.2-mile scenic drive that runs parallel to the Salt River, leading you into the Tonto National Forest. This route is known for its impressive desert cliffs, vibrant red rock formations, and the occasional wild horse sighting—especially at sunrise or sunset.
The road also passes by Saguaro Lake, a serene spot perfect for a break. You can picnic by the water, take a hike, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
A luxury SUV or spacious vehicle makes this drive even more enjoyable, offering comfort and ample space to relax as you take in the stunning views.
3. Usery Pass Road to Bush Highway Loop (35-Minute Drive)
For a shorter, but equally breathtaking route, the Usery Pass Road to Bush Highway loop is a great choice. This drive offers a perfect combination of desert and mountain scenery, making it an ideal route for those short on time but still wanting to experience the beauty of Arizona.
The road winds through rugged desert terrain, with the distant mountains offering a stunning backdrop. Renting a car like a Porsche gives you the added bonus of a smooth, high-performance ride, enhancing the drive with top-notch comfort and handling while taking in the sights.
4. McDowell Mountain Road to Fountain Hills (15-Minute Drive)
McDowell Mountain Road offers a peaceful drive that starts in Rio Verde and winds through expansive horse estates. Along the way, you'll enjoy incredible views of the Four Peaks and the surrounding mountain range.
This road takes you straight into Fountain Hills, passing through the McDowell Mountain Regional Park, an outdoor recreation area with hiking trails and stunning desert landscapes.
With a scenic backdrop of the desert landscape, this drive is perfect for a relaxing ride. Renting an SUV or a sedan is perfect for this route, as it gives you the flexibility to stop and enjoy the sights.
5. Apache Trail (AZ SR 88) – 1 Hour Drive
The Apache Trail is a historic and adventurous route that takes you on a 42-mile journey from Apache Junction to Roosevelt Dam. Along the way, you’ll experience breathtaking views of the Superstition Mountains and canyon landscapes.
The drive includes a mix of paved and unpaved roads, giving you the opportunity for a more rugged adventure. Notable spots along the route include Canyon Lake and the quirky town of Tortilla Flat.
If you're in the mood for a bit of excitement, renting an off-road vehicle, like a Jeep or 4x4 SUV, is perfect for tackling the mixed terrain while enjoying the stunning scenery.
6. Red Rock Scenic Byway (AZ SR 179) – 2-Hour Drive
Located a bit further out, the Red Rock Scenic Byway near Sedona is well worth the drive. This 7.5-mile route takes you through Sedona’s famous red rock country, with iconic rock formations like Bell Rock and Cathedral Rock that are perfect for photography or short hikes.
The vivid colors of the rocks and the sweeping views make this drive one of the most beautiful in Arizona. Renting a Corvette convertible or a sports car makes the experience even better, letting you take in the landscape with the top down while enjoying a smooth ride.
7. Mogollon Rim Scenic Drive (2-Hour Drive)
If you’re looking to escape the desert heat, head north to the Mogollon Rim. The Rim Road (Forest Road 300) offers 43 miles of gravel road with 360-degree views of the Coconino National Forest.
It’s an ideal spot for cooler weather and outdoor activities. A luxury SUV or rugged vehicle like a Mercedes G-Wagon is perfect for this road, giving you the confidence to tackle the rougher sections while maintaining comfort on the drive.
Whether you’re just looking for a relaxing drive or a spot to take in the fresh air, this route provides an unforgettable experience.
8. Desert Foothills Scenic Drive (25-Minute Drive)
The Desert Foothills Scenic Drive is a relatively short but picturesque route located near Scottsdale. This 6.5-mile drive, which starts at the corner of Scottsdale Road and Happy Valley Road, takes you through some of the most beautiful desert landscapes in the area.
The route includes informative signs about the local vegetation, rocks, and wildlife, making it a great option for those who want to learn a bit more about Arizona’s desert ecosystem. For a relaxing, educational experience, a luxury SUV or sedan would be a comfortable choice, allowing you to enjoy the scenery in style.
9. Thompson Peak Road (10-Minute Drive)
Thompson Peak Road offers one of the best views in Fountain Hills. This route takes you up to the top of Thompson Peak, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the McDowell Mountains and the surrounding desert. The drive is peaceful and offers a great escape from the bustle of the city.
Once at the top, you'll experience a sense of calm and quiet that’s hard to find anywhere else. A comfortable sedan or SUV is ideal for this scenic drive, allowing you to take your time and fully appreciate the beauty around you.
10. Saguaro Lake and Stewart Mountain Dam Loop (35-Minute Drive)
Saguaro Lake and the Stewart Mountain Dam loop is a scenic drive that offers a variety of outdoor activities, making it perfect for nature lovers. The route provides stunning views of the Salt River and surrounding desert landscape. Along the way, you can stop for activities like kayaking, fishing, or hiking.
It’s a great day trip for those who want to enjoy both the drive and the nature around them. Renting a spacious SUV is perfect for this route, providing comfort for the whole family and room for all your gear if you plan to enjoy the outdoor activities.
Conclusion
These scenic drives offer a unique glimpse into Arizona’s diverse landscapes, ranging from vast desert vistas to lush forests, tranquil lakes, and rugged mountain views.
Renting a car in Fountain Hills gives you the freedom to explore these routes at your own pace—whether you want to stop for photos, hike spontaneously, or enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature. Beyond the breathtaking scenery, these roads allow you to discover Arizona’s wildlife, historical sites, and hidden gems that you wouldn’t find otherwise.
Whether you're looking for adventure, a relaxing drive, or a memorable family outing, these scenic routes around Fountain Hills promise an experience that will stay with you long after the trip ends. So, gas up, pick up your rental car, and embark on an unforgettable journey through Arizona’s beauty.
