Page to Show Low Road Trip: Desert Secrets & Scenic Highways

The route from Page (3,600 ft) to Show Low (6,300 ft) traverses the edge of the Colorado Plateau, dropping into the Painted Desert and climbing back onto the Mogollon Rim. The drive covers roughly 200 miles via US-89 and AZ-77, with a driving time of about 3.5 to 4 hours without stops. Surprisingly, the highway crosses the edge of the Navajo Nation and passes through the town of Winslow, made famous by the Eagles' song.

An obscure fact: the road crosses the Little Colorado River at an ancient crossing used by Indigenous peoples for centuries. The river's turquoise hue, caused by dissolved copper minerals, is visible from the bridge on US-89. This is a crucial detail for photographers seeking the best stops between Page and Show Low.

If you're wondering how long to drive Page to Show Low, plan for at least 4 to 5 hours with stops, or extend to a full day to explore side attractions. Many travelers ask: is it worth driving Page to Show Low? Absolutely — the diversity of landscapes, from vermillion cliffs to pine forests, makes this a top Arizona road trip.

For tips on finding hidden gems, see this guide on how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Driving Hazards

• Wildlife: deer and elk are common on AZ-77 near Heber and Show Low, especially at dawn/dusk.
• Weather: winter brings snow and ice on the Mogollon Rim; summer monsoon causes sudden downpours and flash flooding.
• Road construction: seasonal repairs on US-89 between Page and Tuba City may cause delays.

Family-Friendly Stops

• Winslow: Homolovi State Park (ancestral Puebloan ruins) and the park with the Eagles statue.
• Holbrook: the Wigwam Motel (historic teepee-shaped rooms) is a quirky photo stop.
• Show Low: Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area offers fishing, hiking, and a playground.

Pet-Friendly Framework

Most rest areas allow leashed pets. The large rest area south of Tuba City (mile 287) has a grassy area. In Show Low, the city park on Deuce of Clubs has a designated dog park. Note: Petrified Forest National Park allows pets only on paved trails.

Geological Highlights

The drive descends from Page's sandstone mesas to the Painted Desert's badlands. Around mile marker 320 on US-89, the view opens to the Echo Cliffs, a 1,000-foot escarpment. As you approach Tuba City, the landscape flattens into sagebrush plains.

• Echo Cliffs overlook: pullout at mile 320 offers panoramic views of the cliffs and the Navajo reservation.
• Little Colorado River Gorge: turnoff at the bridge (just south of the US-89/64 junction) leads to a scenic overlook of the deep gorge.
• Painted Desert: near Holbrook, the Petrified Forest National Park (entrance fee) showcases colorful badlands and petrified logs.

Navajo Nation Culture

The route passes through the Navajo Nation, where local vendors sell handmade jewelry and fry bread. In Tuba City, the Explore Navajo Interactive Museum offers exhibits on Navajo history. The local trading post (Tuba City Trading Post) has authentic rugs and pottery.

In Winslow, the Historic La Posada hotel and its Turquoise Room restaurant celebrate the railroad era. The Standin' on the Corner Park pays homage to the Eagles song, with a statue and mural.

Fuel stations are sparse between Page and Tuba City, then again between Tuba City and Winslow. Fill up in Page before departure. In Tuba City, there are three gas stations near the junction with US-160. Winslow has multiple options, including a Shell on the main drag. From Winslow to Show Low, fuel is available in Holbrook (about 25 miles east off AZ-77) and in Heber (about 40 miles south of Holbrook).

• Fuel stops: Page (multiple), Tuba City (3 stations), Winslow (several), Holbrook (I-40 corridor), Heber (small station).
• Food options: Page offers fast food and cafes; Tuba City has Navajo taco stands and a Subway; Winslow has classic diners like The Historic La Posada; Show Low has chain restaurants and local BBQ.
• Road quality: US-89 is well-maintained two-lane highway; AZ-77 from Holbrook to Show Low is also good, but watch for livestock on open range.