Interstate 17, Major interstate highway in Maricopa County and Yavapai County, United States.
Interstate 17 is a four-lane divided highway that cuts through central Arizona, running from the Phoenix metropolitan area northward toward Flagstaff. The route passes through varying terrain including desert, mountains, and forested regions.
Construction of the highway began in the 1960s as part of the interstate system, connecting previously isolated communities across Arizona. The project opened access to northern regions and mining areas that were difficult to reach before.
The highway serves as a central route for both local residents and tourists accessing Native American archaeological sites, ranches, and national forests in Arizona.
The highway has rest areas and service stations positioned at regular intervals along its length. Drivers should be aware that mountain sections can be challenging, especially during winter, so checking weather conditions before traveling is wise.
The drive from Phoenix to Flagstaff covers roughly 5000 feet of elevation gain, creating visible shifts from desert to mountain landscape. This dramatic climb allows drivers to experience multiple climate zones and ecosystems in a single trip.
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