Hidden Gem

State Route 366, or Swift Trail Parkway, is a 33-mile drive from Safford up Mount Graham, ascending 7,500 feet from desert scrub to alpine forests. Ending at Riggs Flat Lake, this "sky island" route offers diverse landscapes and summer trout fishing in a serene, pine-filled setting.

Scenic Drives & Trails

AZ-366, Arizona, USA

Hidden Gem

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About the experience

Swift Trail Parkway (Arizona State Route 366) is a scenic mountain drive that takes travelers from the desert floor to the cool pine forests of Mount Graham, offering a beautiful variety of landscapes. Here’s what makes it a memorable route:

Diverse Elevation Change: The parkway climbs over 7,000 feet in elevation, transitioning from saguaro-filled desert to lush forests of pine, fir, and aspen. The dramatic change in climate and scenery makes this drive feel like a journey through different worlds.
Scenic Overlooks and Picnic Areas: Along the route, several pullouts and picnic spots offer stunning views of the valleys below and the rugged slopes of the Pinaleño Mountains. The views are especially breathtaking in autumn when the forest colors change.
Cool Escape from the Desert Heat: As the road climbs to higher elevations, temperatures drop significantly, making it a popular summer escape for those looking to beat the desert heat and enjoy a refreshing mountain retreat.
Hiking and Camping Opportunities: The drive provides access to trails and campgrounds, including the Riggs Lake Recreation Area at the top, where visitors can hike, fish, and enjoy the tranquil mountain environment.

Swift Trail Parkway is an adventure through diverse Arizona ecosystems, ideal for nature lovers and those seeking a cool, scenic escape into the mountains.