Route 666? Ride Devil's Highway in Arizona

Nov 16, 2024

Running through Arizona’s White Mountains, US-191 (formerly Route 666) is a famous route for motorcyclists and road-trip fans. Known as the “Devil’s Highway,” this stretch offers a challenging drive, unique views, and a history steeped in lore. Once known as Route 666, this route combines twists, turns, and a few myths, making it a memorable drive.

The History of Route 666

Originally a spur of the iconic Route 66, Route 666 spanned multiple states, linking isolated areas of New Mexico, Arizona, Colorado, and Utah. The number 666 sparked associations with the “Devil’s Highway,” thanks to the cultural meaning attached to the number. This nickname became popular over the years, and stories of mysterious happenings along the route took root. The route also had a high rate of sign theft. 

To move away from this reputation, the route was renamed US-191 in 1992 in Arizona and decommissioned nationally in 2003. Despite this change, travelers still refer to it as Route 666, keeping its history alive for those who drive it today.

Why Devil’s Highway Draws Motorcyclists

Winding through the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, Devil’s Highway is a draw for riders and road-trippers. The road runs from Morenci to Alpine, with over 120 miles of curves, climbs, and open views.

• Challenging Drive: With over 400 curves within a 120-mile span, this route keeps you focused and offers plenty of technical riding.
• Varied Scenery: Moving from high desert into pine forests, the road passes by mountain peaks, canyons, and stretches of forested land.
• Low Traffic: With few vehicles on the road, you can enjoy a more uninterrupted experience.

Best Seasons to Visit Devil’s Highway

Weather varies along the Devil’s Highway route, with an elevation change of nearly 9,000 feet in some areas. Here’s what to expect each season:

• Late Spring and Early Fall: The ideal times to drive. Spring brings blooming flowers, while fall colors make for a vibrant backdrop.
• Summer: Summer works for higher parts of the route where it’s cooler, but southern towns like Morenci can get very hot.
• Winter: Winter travel isn’t recommended due to snow, ice, and remote stretches that lack services in the higher elevations. If you’re confused about reading the word “snow,” rest assured that southern Arizona as a whole won’t drop below 50°F during the winter. With that said- higher elevations DO get chilly, and may have unpredictable weather. 

Notable Stops Along Devil’s Highway

Although driving is the main focus, there are a few stops that make for a good break along the way:

• Hannagan Meadow Lodge: This lodge is a halfway point offering dining and lodging options. Hannagan Meadow has indoor and outdoor seating, making it a solid choice to stop and recharge.
• Alpine, Arizona: At the north end of the route, Alpine has gas stations, food, and some supplies. It’s also a convenient starting or ending point for the loop.
• Morenci Mine: Near the start of the route, Morenci Mine is a large copper mine visible from the road and offers an interesting view of Arizona’s mining history.

Want a Local to Lead You Through the Curves?

With over 400 curves and nearly 9,000 feet of elevation change, Devil's Highway rewards riders who know the road. Riders Share offers guided motorcycle tours across Arizona led by locals who've ridden these switchbacks and know when to push, when to pull off, and which stretches are worth savoring. If you're making the trip from Phoenix or Tucson and want to ride with someone who knows this route inside out, a guided tour takes the guesswork out of one of Arizona's most demanding roads.

Legends of the Haunted Highway

Route 666 is known not only for its scenery but also for strange tales and local legends:

• Phantom Hitchhikers: Travelers claim sightings of ghostly hitchhikers who vanish when approached, including a young girl in a white dress.
• Skinwalkers: Local lore tells of strange animal-like figures appearing on the road, believed to be shape-shifting skinwalkers.
• Lost Time and UFOs: Some report unusual experiences of “lost time,” as well as sightings of unexplained lights in the night sky.

These tales add a mysterious element, attracting both curious visitors and those interested in ghost stories.

Tips for Riding Devil’s Highway

With its switchbacks, elevation changes, and remote sections, Devil’s Highway requires a bit of prep.

1. Fuel Up Early: Gas stations are limited, so top off in Morenci or Alpine. Hannagan Meadow Lodge doesn’t have fuel.
2. Dress for Shifting Temperatures: Elevation changes can bring sudden drops in temperature, so pack layers. For example, if it’s around 90°F in Morenci at the base, you may experience temperatures as low as 50°F or even colder at higher elevations near Hannagan Meadow. Packing layers will keep you comfortable as temperatures shift from warm desert heat to cool mountain air.
3. Avoid Nighttime Travel: Due to visibility and wildlife crossings, driving during the day is safest.
4. Stay Alert for Wildlife: Mule deer, elk, and black bears can be seen near the road, especially in the early morning or late evening.
5. Plan Your Route: Most riders prefer going south-to-north, which allows for easier handling on steep sections near Morenci.

Directions to the Devil’s Highway 

The portion of the old Route 666, now Route 191, is roughly a 124-mile stretch that starts in Eager, Arizona and goes through Morenci. Riders can continue to ride south into New Mexico, or north up through Utah.

• Distance from Tucson, Arizona: 4.5 to 5 hours. The quickest route from Tucson would typically involve taking I-10 east to US-191 north, leading up to the scenic portions of the highway starting around Morenci and Clifton.
• Distance from Phoenix, Arizona: 5 hours. From Phoenix, the route generally involves taking US-60 east, merging onto AZ-77 south, and then US-191 north, reaching the winding roads closer to Morenci.

Rent a Motorcycle for Your Devil’s Highway Ride with Riders Share

Ready to take on the Devil’s Highway? Whether you’re looking to navigate the highway's twists near Morenci or take in the views around Alpine, Riders Share offers a convenient way to find the perfect rental motorcycle.

With rentals available across Arizona, including a larger selection in major cities like Tucson and Phoenix, Riders Share provides flexibility for travelers. Start your adventure from a location that suits your trip and choose from a range of motorcycle styles to make the most of Arizona’s legendary route.

Devil’s Highway: Arizona Route 666 is Worth the Ride

Whether you’re drawn by the road’s history, its driving challenges, or its legends, Devil’s Highway, the old route 666, in Arizona offers a road trip experience like no other. Test your skills on one of the country’s curviest routes, soak in the scenery, and, if you’re up for it, try spotting one of the ghosts rumored to haunt this legendary route.

Prepare well, check your fuel, and ride the route that many have called one of Arizona’s most interesting drives.