Stargazing At Sunset Crater
Stargazing At Sunset Crater

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Enjoy the stunning dark skies of Flagstaff, Arizona and it's surrounding parks, like Sunset Crater National Monument.

An Alternative Route Down Arizona’s Route 66

Hit the open road and discover the best of Arizona’s Route 66 on a motorcycle. From iconic landmarks to scenic detours, this 5-day itinerary offers a thrilling, alternative way to experience America’s most famous highway. Whether you’re riding through desert landscapes or stopping at quirky roadside attractions, this journey is the ultimate adventure for road trip enthusiasts.
Prepared By:

Sydney Rasmussen

Adventurer & Creator

Five Days Cruisin’ Down Route 66

Start / End

Holbrook, Arizona / Oatman, Arizona

States Covered
Miles / Kilometers

320 / 515

Suggested Days

5+ Days

#ThisIsMyRoute

Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey along Arizona’s stretch of Route 66, where adventure meets history. This alternative Route 66 experience invites travelers to explore by motorcycle, taking in the breathtaking desert landscapes, iconic landmarks, and quirky roadside stops. Enjoy the ride through historic towns like Holbrook, Winslow, and Flagstaff, each offering unique stops along the way. With the option to take scenic detours through stunning natural wonders like Grand Canyon West and Meteor Crater, this journey offers the perfect blend of excitement, history, and unforgettable landscapes.

Preparation

Before hitting the road, ensure you’re fully prepared for your Route 66 adventure. For the motorcycle tour, check your bike’s condition and pack essentials like sunscreen, water, and a jacket for cooler evenings. Route 66 can be remote, so make sure you have a good map or GPS app to guide you along the way, and plan for fuel stops in advance. Whether you choose the standard Route 66 path or opt for scenic detours like Grand Canyon West, prepare for some winding roads and stunning vistas. Don’t forget to bring your sense of adventure!

Five Days Exploring Arizona’s Route 66

DAY 1: Holbrook to Winslow

The Arizona stretch of Route 66 is rich in history, offering travelers a chance to step back in time. Begin your journey in Holbrook, where the iconic Wigwam Motel provides a unique stay in tepee-shaped rooms—a true Route 66 experience. From Holbrook, head west to Petrified Forest National Park, where ancient trees turned to stone stand as a testament to the area’s natural history.

Further down the road, Winslow hosts a classic stop with Standin’ on the Corner Park, a nod to the Eagles’ song “Take It Easy,” while La Posada Hotel gives a glimpse into the luxurious past of Route 66. This beautifully restored Fred Harvey railroad hotel is perfect for a meal or an overnight stay, featuring fine dining in the Turquoise Room. Winslow’s charm and La Posada’s hospitality create an unforgettable experience, setting the stage for the rest of your Route 66 adventure.

DAY 2: Winslow to Flagstaff

From Winslow, continue your ride westward toward Flagstaff, a charming town nestled among the ponderosa pines. The route takes you through some of the most scenic stretches of the Arizona desert, with rugged mountains and expansive landscapes. Along the way, make sure to stop at Meteor Crater Natural Landmark, one of the best-preserved meteor impact sites in the world. This awe-inspiring landmark offers a visitor center with exhibits about the history and science behind the impact that shaped this massive crater.

Afterward, continue your journey to Flagstaff, known for its cool climate and historic significance. Flagstaff is a great place to rest, with its vibrant downtown area and local attractions. Explore the Riordan Mansion State Historic Park to admire its Arts and Crafts architecture or unwind at one of the town’s legendary breweries. Flagstaff’s charm makes it the perfect stop before heading further along Route 66.

DAY 3: Flagstaff to Seligman

Today’s ride takes you through the high desert to Seligman, the heart of Route 66 nostalgia. Before leaving Flagstaff, consider a detour north through Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument and Wupatki National Monument, where volcanic landscapes and ancient Native American ruins become a window into the area’s past. Back on the highway, stop in Ash Fork, a small town known for its rich railroad history and charming Route 66 museum. Take a moment to explore local sights before continuing your journey.

Seligman’s retro charm makes it the perfect place to stretch your legs and enjoy a classic diner experience. While in town, stop by Seligman Grocery Market for Route 66 memorabilia and enjoy the quirky atmosphere that has made this town a must-see along the Mother Road.

DAY 4: Seligman to Kingman

For this leg of the journey, take your time and enjoy the breathtaking views at Grand Canyon West, located off the beaten path of Route 66. While it’s a bit of a detour, it’s well worth it for those who want to spend an extra day taking in the awe-inspiring beauty of the Grand Canyon. Here, you can explore the famous Skywalk, a glass bridge that extends over the canyon edge, showing off stunning views of the Colorado River below. The Hualapai Ranch offers a variety of activities, from horseback riding to whitewater rafting, and the Eagle Point lookout, one of the most scenic spots along the canyon’s rim.

After soaking in the grandeur of Grand Canyon West, head toward Kingman, a charming town rich in Route 66 history. Once in Kingman, make sure to stop at the Drive Through Route 66 Sign for the perfect photo op before exploring the Route 66 Museum, which provides a fascinating look at the history of the highway and the people who traveled it. The “Powerhouse,” as it’s also known, is home to a unique collection of electric vehicles throughout history, as well as a handful of EV charging stations on site for those who need a recharge. It’s the perfect way to reflect on the journey and learn more about the past, present, and future of Route 66 before continuing on to your next stop.

DAY 5: Kingman to Oatman & Beyond!

For the final leg of your journey, head toward Oatman, a historic gold-mining town that feels like stepping back in time. The ride from Kingman to Oatman offers scenic views of the Arizona desert, with winding roads and rugged landscapes. Take a break at the iconic Cool Springs Station before heading the rest of the way into Oatman. As you approach town, keep an eye out for the wild burros that roam freely through the streets, adding to the town’s charm and creating the perfect photo opportunity.

Oatman, once a bustling gold-mining town, has preserved its rustic atmosphere, with wooden boardwalks and historic buildings lining the streets. Take some time to explore the old mining sites and learn about the town’s gold rush history. The Oatman Hotel, dating back to 1902, is a great spot to relax and enjoy a meal while soaking in the nostalgic vibe of the Old West and planning your next adventure along this historic highway.

No matter where you venture in Arizona, Williams will always be ready to welcome you back home at the end of an exciting day of exploring.