Scottsdale to Jackpot Road Trip Guide | Wayro

On this route, you'll cross the Mogollon Rim near Payson, a 2,000-foot escarpment that marks the southern edge of the Colorado Plateau. This geological feature is a dramatic transition from Sonoran Desert to pine forests.

The drive spans approximately 840 miles and usually takes 12-13 hours of pure driving time, but plan for a full day with breaks. The most efficient path is US-87 north to I-40 west, then US-93 north through Nevada.

The route passes through four distinct biomes: Sonoran Desert, pine forests, Mojave Desert, and Great Basin sagebrush. Each offers unique photography opportunities, especially at dawn and dusk.

In Arizona, the red rocks of Sedona are accessible via a short detour from I-17, but they're not directly on the route. The real highlight is the Rim's steep cliffs and cool air.

Local commerce: In Kingman, visit the Historic Route 66 Museum. In Wells, the California Trail Interpretive Center offers a glimpse of pioneer history. Jackpot itself is a small gambling town with a few casinos and motels, but its economy depends on tourism.

• Natural stops: Oak Creek Canyon, Sunset Crater, Valley of Fire State Park (near Las Vegas), Great Basin National Park (near Ely).
• UNESCO sites: None on route, but nearby Mesa Verde National Park (CO) is a day trip detour from I-40.
• Local food: Try green chili in Arizona, Basque restaurants in Elko (NV), and casino buffets in Jackpot.

For families, the route is long but manageable with stops at Arizona Science Center (Phoenix) or the Discovery Center in Kingman. Older kids enjoy the extinct volcano at Sunset Crater.

Pet-friendly: Most hotels along I-40 and US-93 allow pets, but check in advance. Rest areas are generally good for bathroom breaks, but Nevada stretches lack shade.

Fatigue management: plan to stop every 2 hours or 150 miles. Use rest areas, but also consider coffee shops in small towns like Kingman or Wells. Driving through Las Vegas at rush hour adds 30-60 minutes, so time your departure.

• Safety: watch for wildlife--elk near the Rim, bighorn sheep in Nevada. Use high beams at night but dim for oncoming traffic.
• Hidden off-route spots: ghost town of Chloride, AZ; Cathedral Gorge State Park (NV) near Panaca; the tiny town of Caliente with its railroad depot.
• Hot springs: Spencer Hot Springs (NV) near Austin is a free soaking pool, 20 miles off US-50.

The climate varies: Scottsdale's desert heat (often 100°F+ in summer) contrasts with freezing temps at the Rim and in Nevada. Always carry water and warm layers.

Fuel economy: expect to fill up every 300-350 miles, but during long stretches in Nevada, stations can be 100 miles apart. Plan fuel stops at Kingman, AZ, and Wells, NV.

Road quality is good on interstates; however, US-93 from Wickenburg to Kingman is a two-lane highway with some rough patches. Check weather before crossing the Rim in winter.

• Major highways: US-87, I-17, I-40, US-93, I-80, US-93 again.
• Rest areas: Arizona has well-maintained rest areas; Nevada's are sparse but functional.
• Cell coverage: mostly reliable on interstates, but dead zones near the Rim and in remote Nevada valleys.
• Towing/hauling: steep grades near the Rim reduce speed; use lower gears.

For planning scenic stops, use how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.