Arizona

In the Grand Canyon State (602-230-733; www.arizonaguide.com), twenty-two scenic byways, parkways, and historic and scenic roads take visitors to a variety of natural and cultural sites off the beaten track.

In northern Arizona, two scenic roads transport you deep into the Navajo reservation. Along Kayenta-Monument Valley Scenic Road, stop at the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park on the Colorado Plateau. The park shows off some of the most striking landscapes of sandstone buttes, mesas, and spires in the entire Southwest. While driving along the Dine Tah (Among the People) Scenic Road, visitors have the opportunity to explore Navajo culture. Learn about the early basket makers and the tribal people who currently live in the area at the Canyon de Chelly National Monument.

In southern Arizona, the Patagonia-Sonoita Scenic Road leads to a number of preserves and parks that are perfect for a picnic, hike, or bird watching. Trace the paths of the Spanish priests, whose influence in southern Arizona is older than the European settlements of the East Coast. Stop at the Mission San Xavier del Bac, established in 1691, which still serves the Tohono O'odham, or "people of the desert." Tumacacori National Historical Park is the site of one of the oldest missions in the Southwest, and Tubac Presidio State Historic Park features remnants of Arizona's first European settlement. At the binational town of Nogales, on the Mexican border, you can buy traditional Mexican wares.

To find out more about what to see and do along Arizona's scenic byways, order Travel Arizona: The Scenic Byways (800-543-5432; www.arizona highways.com).