Comments (0) BEST DRIVE TO SEE WILDFLOWERS - 2005
Florence Junction to Oracle; San Manuel to Superior
This wonderful day trip cuts through segments of spectacular cactus forest vistas interspersed with old copper-mining towns and steep mountain grades. The route is a favorite for motorcyclists and convertibles, with some choice camping and picnicking spots scattered along the way, and a couple of crusty watering holes in Florence, Oracle Junction, Mammoth, Kearney and Superior to help keep you stoked. The biggest challenge is keeping one eye on the road while gawking at the yellow, purple, orange and red wildflowers that cover the hillsides and desert floor. March through early May is the best time to see wildflowers, although the displays vary from season to season depending on the intensity and duration of winter rains.
To get there from Phoenix, take U.S. 60 east to Florence Junction, then head south on State Route 79 through Florence (which becomes Pinal Pioneer Parkway). Continue on to Oracle Junction, then go east on State Route 77 toward Mammoth, where the route turns northerly and follows the San Pedro River. Just north of Dudleyville, veer left on State Route 177 and continue to Superior and the intersection with U.S. 60.
