3 Quick Desert Road Trips to Take This Spring
Shake off the winter dust and hit the road—desert style.
Spring is the perfect time to explore the Desert Southwest. The wildflowers are blooming, the skies are crystal clear, and the scorching summer heat hasn’t hit yet. If you’re craving a quick getaway packed with big views, small-town charm, and a little weird magic, these three spring road trips are calling your name.
1. From Yuma to Joshua Tree: Desert Zen Meets Artistic Grit
Route: Yuma, AZ → Joshua Tree, CA
Distance: ~150 miles | 3 hours
Vibe: Surreal landscapes + retro desert towns + funky art
Leave the fields and palms of Yuma behind and head west to the otherworldly Joshua Tree. This quirky high-desert destination blends spiritual stillness with dusty-edge cool. Hike among the twisted namesake trees in Joshua Tree National Park, then grab lunch and people-watch in town.
Don’t miss:
The Cholla Cactus Garden at sunrise
Noah Purifoy Outdoor Desert Art Museum
A stop in Salton City or Bombay Beach for haunting, offbeat photo ops
Fuel up: Natural Sisters Cafe (healthy, hiker-friendly eats) or Pappy & Harriet’s (BBQ + live music in nearby Pioneertown)
2. Tucson to Bisbee: History, Art, and a Bit of Ghost Town Glam
Route: Tucson → Bisbee, AZ
Distance: ~100 miles | 2 hours
Vibe: Vintage charm + mountain views + quirky culture
This southeastern Arizona road trip is a must-do for anyone who loves history with a side of weird. Head south from Tucson to Bisbee, a funky former mining town turned creative haven tucked in the Mule Mountains. With spring temps in the 70s, it’s perfect for exploring on foot.
Don’t miss:
A stroll through Old Bisbee’s colorful staircases and art galleries
The Queen Mine Tour (go underground!)
Coffee or cocktails at the historic Copper Queen Hotel
Bonus stop: Detour to Tombstone on your way back for a Wild West fix.
Snack stop: High Desert Market & Café for fresh pastries and gourmet sandwiches
3. Red Rock Loop: Sedona’s Scenic Escape
Route: Phoenix → Sedona, AZ → Jerome
Distance: ~115 miles | 2 hours
Vibe: Red rock vibes + crystal shops + hillside ghost town
This iconic road trip brings together jaw-dropping nature, mystical energy, and a side of small-town weird. From Phoenix, head north to Sedona for vortex hikes, creekside strolls, and vibrant arts. Then make the short drive up the hill to Jerome, an old mining town turned artsy enclave.
Top spring picks:
Hike Bell Rock or Devil’s Bridge
Browse Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village
Ghost tours + wine tasting in Jerome
Pro tip: Go early to avoid Sedona traffic and snag that sunrise trailhead glow.
Ready to Roll?
Whether you're craving peace, adventure, or just something different, spring is the season for desert road magic. So pack snacks, cue the playlist, and hit the open road. The desert is calling and I think you should go!