---
id: "50186"
name: Sky Island Scenic Byway
distance: "27.2"
duration: Plan for three to six hours to drive, including backtracking.
description: Start your journey among giant saguaro cacti of the Sonoran desert and climb to shady conifer forests at nearly 9,000 feet, passing biological diversity equivalent to a drive from Mexico to Canada in just 27 miles. Enjoy spectacular views and recreational opportunities from hiking and camping to picnicking and skiing.
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websites:
  - url: https://nsbfoundation.com/nb/sky-island-parkway-national-scenic-byway-catalina-highway/
    name: National Scenic Byway Association
  - url: https://www.thearmchairexplorer.com/arizona/sky_island_parkway.php
    name: The Armchair Explorer
attractions:
  - url: https://aztrail.org/
    name: Arizona Trail Association
  - url: https://www.fs.usda.gov/coronado/
    name: Coronado National Forest
designations:
  - National Scenic Byway
  - National Forest Scenic Byway
  - Arizona State Scenic Byway
states:
  - AZ
ll:
  - -110.74527699999999
  - 32.304001000000085
bounds:
  - - -110.76049799999993
    - 32.304001000000085
  - - -110.68756100000002
    - 32.44815100000011

---

Start your journey among giant saguaro cacti of the Sonoran desert and climb to shady conifer forests at nearly 9,000 feet, passing biological diversity equivalent to a drive from Mexico to Canada in just 27 miles. Enjoy spectacular views and recreational opportunities from hiking and camping to picnicking and skiing.