East Carefree Hwy, Arizona

This is a somewhat remote area with very scenic views. One of the pitfalls when driving in this area is limited cell phone reception, but this doesn't matter much because you will want to focus your attention on all of the scenery around you. There are lots of residential neighborhoods tucked far off Carefree Hwy. Many of the homes are perched on mountainsides with remote access. There are also lots of bikers/motorcyclist that enjoy traveling down Carefree Hwy and they also congregate in the nearby town of Carefree, AZ, that has lots of charming shops, art galleries and restaurants - with a real wild west feel. If you decide to venture into the city of Carefree, be sure to watch your speed, as this is a small town speed trap at its best! Carefree Hwy dead ends into North Scottsdale road, which offers a spectacular view of the Boulders, a very unique rock formation - which is also the location of the Boulders Resort and Golden Door Spa. The Boulders Resort features golfing, fine dining, shopping and much, much more. For those with some money and time on their hands, this resort may be just what you are looking for. http://www.theboulders.com/

Carefree Highway runs from the 17 all the way to Cave Creek and then to the town of Carefree. It's 55 the whole way, so you can move almost as fast as if you were cutting across the 101. There is hardly ever any traffic, and it's goes through some pretty country. As you're driving there is your usualy assortment of suburbs and strip malls, but things are pretty sparse. There are some fast food restaurants and such but they are mainly few and far between. It's worth checking out if you want a good way to get around north Phoenix without getting bogged down in the traffic on the 101.