Exploring Southern Arizona's Countryside: 10 Unseen Scenic Drives to Discover Tucked away in southern Arizona's rolling hills and vast deserts lies a treasure trove of hidden scenic drives waiting to be discovered.

Exploring Southern Arizona's Countryside: 10 Unseen Scenic Drives to Discover

Tucked away in southern Arizona's rolling hills and vast deserts lies a treasure trove of hidden scenic drives waiting to be discovered. Green Valley, with its picturesque countryside and rich natural beauty, offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. In this article, we'll guide you through 10 unseen scenic drives that will take your breath away.

Drive #1: The Empire Ranch Loop

• A 5-mile loop that winds through the rolling hills and grasslands surrounding the historic Empire Ranch
• 
• Keep an eye out for wildlife such as deer, coyotes, and even the occasional mountain lion
• Visit the Empire Ranch, a working cattle ranch that dates back to the late 1800s

Drive #2: The Santa Cruz Canyon Scenic Byway

• A scenic drive along the Santa Cruz River, offering stunning views of the surrounding canyon walls and lush vegetation
• 
• Take in the breathtaking vistas from the many pull-outs and overlooks along the route
• Be sure to stop at the Tubac Presidio State Historic Park, a 13-acre park featuring a reconstructed 18th-century Spanish presidio

Drive #3: The Sonoita Creek Preserve Loop

• A gentle 2-mile loop that meanders through the riparian areas surrounding Sonoita Creek
• 
• Look for a variety of bird species, including sandpipers, herons, and kingfishers
• Visit the Sonoita Creek Preserve, which offers a peaceful retreat from the desert heat

Drive #4: The Patagonia-Sonoita Creek Scenic Byway

• A scenic drive that winds through the rolling hills and grasslands surrounding Patagonia Lake
• 
• Take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys
• Visit the Patagonia-Sonoita Creek Scenic Byway Visitor Center for information on local attractions and activities

Drive #5: The Arizona Trail Scenic Byway

• A 12-mile loop that follows the Arizona Trail, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding desert landscapes
• 
• Look for a variety of cacti species, including saguaro, palo verde, and ocotillo
• Visit the Arizona Trail Association website for information on local hiking trails and scenic drives

Drive #6: The Madera Canyon Scenic Byway

• A 7-mile loop that winds through the lush forests surrounding Madera Canyon
• 
• Take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys
• Visit the Madera Canyon Recreation Area for information on local hiking trails and scenic drives

Drive #7: The Cienega Creek Preserve Loop

• A 2-mile loop that meanders through the riparian areas surrounding Cienega Creek
• 
• Look for a variety of bird species, including sandpipers, herons, and kingfishers
• Visit the Cienega Creek Preserve, which offers a peaceful retreat from the desert heat

Drive #8: The BLM Scenic Byway

• A 10-mile loop that winds through the rolling hills and grasslands surrounding the BLM land
• 
• Take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys
• Visit the BLM website for information on local hiking trails and scenic drives

Drive #9: The Green Valley Scenic Byway

• A 5-mile loop that winds through the rolling hills and grasslands surrounding Green Valley
• 
• Look for a variety of cacti species, including saguaro, palo verde, and ocotillo
• Visit the Green Valley Visitor Center for information on local attractions and activities

Drive #10: The Pima Mine Road Scenic Byway

• A 12-mile loop that winds through the rolling hills and grasslands surrounding the Pima Mine
• 
• Take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys
• Visit the Pima Mine Road Scenic Byway Visitor Center for information on local attractions and activities

Practical Information

• Hours: Check with individual locations for hours of operation
• Fees: Some locations may have fees or require permits; check with individual locations for information
• Location Hints: Many of the scenic drives listed above can be accessed from Green Valley, but be sure to check maps and GPS for specific directions