Coronado Trail Scenic Byway in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest

Today I drove the Coronado Trail Scenic Byway which takes you through the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. It reminded me so much of “Going to the Sun road” in Glacier Park, MT. It was a drive that leaves one on the edge of their seat and speechless. Only this beauty is located in Arizona via US191 all the way through the Rockies. I hopped on Coronado on the south end in Clifton, AZ and traveled it north to Springerville/Eagar, AZ. There were several paths and places to pull off that I couldn’t help but stop. The views of high mountain tops, desert cacti, and lush greens of the conifer forest took my breath away. I would have to sat this is now one of my new favorite places in the United States. At the start of the trip was the Morenci mine overlook where you could catch a glimpse of how mountains that have been and are being moved to produce copper. The difference in color of the rock formations was like no other part of the Rocky Mountain Range I have viewed yet to date. A ways further up 191, I was able to photo some friendly deer, who didn’t seem to be bothered by my presence. The roads constant switch back and low speeds really give you an opportunity to take all the scenery in. This seldom traveled well kept secret is truly a must see!

A Historical note…

The Coronado Byway got its name from the Spanish explorer Francisco Vasquez de Coronado’s seeking the riches of the legendary Seven Cities of Cibola, 1540. His route ran very close to this scenic byway.