Coronado Panoramic Road Itinerary
The Coronado Panoramic Road is an amazing road trip that takes you through the towns of Eagar, Alpine, Springerville, and Clifton in the United States. This 216 km route is best enjoyed in the summer months, as the scenery and wildlife are at their most vibrant. The road conditions are not the best, so make sure to take extra care when driving. This road trip is suitable for all types of drivers, and can be completed within a day, so it is perfect for those wanting to explore the area on a budget. Start your adventure in Eagar and take in the stunning views of the White Mountains, before heading to Alpine for a breathtaking view of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. Then, make your way to Springerville, where you can see the majestic San Francisco Peaks, and end your journey in Clifton, a charming, small town with plenty of history. Enjoy the Coronado Panoramic Road and all it has to offer!
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number of days
216 km
route length
fair
budget
tourist
good for
on the right
traffic direction
moderate
accident level
START
Eagar
Distance 216 km
Driving time 4.2 h
Pace: modest
56.0 kWh
Airports
PHX
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Eagar, Arizona is an ideal starting point for the Coronado Panoramic Road trip. Located in the White Mountains, Eagar is a small city filled with plenty of outdoor activities and attractions to explore. Nature enthusiasts will love the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, where they can find hiking trails, mountain biking, and camping grounds. The White Mountains are also known for its scenic lakes and streams, making it a great spot for fishing and boating. The Mogollon Rim is a great spot for wildlife viewing, and for a unique experience, visitors can explore the nearby Petrified Forest National Park.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). Car rentals are available at the airport, making it easy to start the road trip. Along the Coronado Panoramic Road, visitors can visit some of the most beautiful sights in the White Mountains. These include the Greer Lakes, the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, the Fort Apache Historic Park, and the White Mountain Apache Reservation. There are also plenty of opportunities for camping, horseback riding, and other outdoor activities.
Eagar is the perfect starting point for the Coronado Panoramic Road trip, offering plenty of outdoor activities and attractions to explore. With the nearby international airport and car rental services, travelers can easily start their journey and explore the best of the White Mountains.
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Eagar
- Alpine
Distance 42 km
Driving time 0.5 h
Pace: fast
12.7 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome to the Eagar-Alpine road trip stage! This is one of the most interesting stages of your tour, as it covers a distance of 26mi and takes you less than 1 hour to complete.
If you’re starting in Eagar, make sure to visit the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, where you can take a walk and admire the beauty of the nature. When you’re done, head towards the Greer Lakes, where you can fish, swim, and explore the area.
The next stop is in Alpine, where you can visit the Fort Apache Historic Park, where you can learn about the history of the area and take a walk around the ruins of the old fort. You can also visit the Apache Cultural Center and Museum, to learn about the Apache people and their culture.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your Eagar-Alpine road trip!
Alpine - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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2
Alpine
- Clifton
Distance 173 km
Driving time 3.7 h
Pace: modest
45.0 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome to the Alpine-Clifton road trip! This 108-mile journey is an amazing opportunity to explore the beauty of the Southwest. Start your adventure in Alpine, and get ready to be amazed by the scenic road that will take you to Clifton. Along the way, you can visit some of the most interesting places in the region.
In Alpine, you can explore the Museum of the Big Bend and the Sul Ross State University Planetarium. Not far away, you can also visit the Davis Mountains State Park and the Fort Davis National Historic Site. As you continue your journey to Clifton, you can explore the breathtaking beauty of the San Solomon Springs.
Your journey should take no more than four hours, so make sure to take your time and enjoy the scenery. Don't forget to take a few stops and take some pictures. You will be able to find more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Clifton - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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Clifton
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Clifton, United States is the perfect ending point for the Coronado Panoramic Road. Located in the heart of Arizona, Clifton is a hub of outdoor activities and a great place to finish off your road trip. The town is surrounded by the Coronado National Forest and offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and camping.
The town of Clifton is home to a wide variety of attractions and activities. The Clifton Heritage Museum is a great place to learn about the history of the town and the surrounding area. The museum also features a collection of artifacts from the early settlers. Additionally, the town is home to the Clifton Historic Park and the Clifton-Morenci Mine, which are both popular tourist destinations.
Clifton is also a great place to explore the outdoors. The Coronado National Forest offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and camping. Additionally, the town is home to several hot springs and a variety of rivers, creeks, and lakes that are perfect for fishing and swimming.
If you are traveling to Clifton by air, the closest international airport is the Tucson International Airport (TUS). From there, you can rent a car and drive the rest of the way to Clifton.
Clifton, United States is the perfect ending point for your Coronado Panoramic Road trip. With a variety of attractions and activities, the town is sure to provide you with plenty of memories to take home with you.
Coronado Panoramic Road at a glance
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Start:
Eagar
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End:
Clifton
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Distance:
216 km
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Stay:
1 day
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Getting there:
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)
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When to drive:
April, May, June, July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
The Coronado Panoramic Road, weaving through the heart of the American Southwest, is a 216 km (134 miles) scenic journey that offers budget-friendly exploration through various towns in the United States. Travelers can immerse themselves in the majestic natural landscapes and delve into the rich tapestry of local history and culture.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Eagar: Nestled in the White Mountains, Eagar is a gateway to outdoor adventures and provides breathtaking views, especially of Escudilla Mountain, Arizona's third highest peak.
- Alpine: Situated at an elevation of 8,050 feet, Alpine presents captivating vistas of the expansive Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, home to a diverse wildlife population including elk and black bears.
- Springerville: Known for its proximity to the Casa Malpais Archaeological Park, Springerville offers a glimpse into ancient cultures and allows viewing of the distant San Francisco Peaks, remnants of an eroded stratovolcano.
- Clifton: A historic copper mining town with a unique charm, Clifton features the Coronado Trail, which traces the path Francisco Vásquez de Coronado traveled during his 16th-century expedition.
Best Time to Go:
The optimal time for this Road Trip is during the summer months when the region's flora and fauna are most vibrant. The weather is generally favorable for travel, with clear blue skies and comfortable temperatures enhancing the enjoyment of outdoor activities.
Potential Risks:
Travelers should be aware that Road conditions can vary, with some stretches prone to sudden weather changes or rough surfaces. It's important to exercise caution, especially on less traveled or unpaved Roads, and to be prepared for any unexpected driving conditions.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- The Coronado Panoramic Road can be conquered in a single day, but its rich history and natural beauty might tempt you to take your time and explore.
- The Road is accessible to drivers of all skill levels, but some sections may offer a more thrilling experience for those who enjoy challenging drives.
- The route is especially appealing to budget-conscious travelers, as there are numerous free or low-cost attractions, such as hiking trails, historic sites, and viewpoints.
- This Road Trip offers a chance to see some of the rarest ecosystems in the U.S., including the Blue Range Primitive Area, which is a designated wilderness area known for its untouched natural beauty.
A good choice for:
Embark on the Coronado Panoramic Road for a day filled with awe-inspiring natural beauty and an insightful peek into the region's history. This journey is a testament to the diverse landscapes and cultural richness of the American Southwest. Remember to drive safely and plan your Trip during the summer for an optimal experience.