Considered among the top scenic highways in the nation, the Coronado Trail snakes through eastern Arizona’s Blue Mountains offering spectacular views. Expect curves and mountain grades, and watch for deer, elk, or wild turkey as you navigate the 90 miles between Alpine and the mining towns of Clifton and Morenci. One guest commented “Some joker at the Department of Transportation posted a speed limit of 25mph for part of the highway. It’s a joke–you can’t go that fast!” Some visitors prefer to make a day of the leisurely drive, taking advantage of the many rest areas and pullouts along the road. This highway is lightly traveled, and is considered a challenge to cyclists.
Watch the forest change from Ponderosa Pine and Douglas Fir to Alligator Juniper, scrub oak, and mesquite. The Trail climbs to over 9,000 feet elevation 22 miles south of Alpine, so keep an eye on the weather; wind and storms can develop a might quickly in the mountains. It’s possible to encounter snow anytime between Halloween and Mother’s Day. Note: vehicles longer than 40 feet should not consider traveling through, but RV turnarounds exist up to 38 miles south of Alpine.
