Tucson area to Show-Low, best route

Just last week and this one we drove from Happy Jack down to Roosevelt Lake on 260/87/188, and then from there to Globe up to Show Low on 60. I would say 60 is easier, although the canyon is more demanding than anything on 87, for a few minutes. There are plenty of slow lanes, so you can go at a speed you are comfortable with. Let's put it this way, from Roosevelt Lake to Show Low I had the choice of going either way, and I chose 60. I think it is six of one, a half dozen of the other.

The Payson route has steeper grades than the Salt River Canyon route. I much prefer the canyon.

There are some very steep grades and tight turns going the Payson route. We drive the Salt River route with our 5er several times a year. It really isn't bad. I'm quite comfortable with it. The only time it makes me a little apprehensive is on a Sunday afternoon of a holiday weekend. The traffic can get intense.

I've seen many commercial big rigs on that route. Just make sure you stay in the right lane when you get to a passing lane to let traffic clear. Also if it backs up behind you, pull over into a turn out to let it clear. You'll be fine.

Jim - Tucson

We have done Tucson to Globe to Payson to Show Low. Not a bad way to go and only 280 miles. It is about 90 miles further than through Salt River Canyon.