The shortest and most scenic route from Phoenix to Alburquerque is through St. Johns, which is surrounded by tourist and visitor destinations.  Within an hour's drive are the Apache, Zuni and Navajo reservations, archeological sites, the Petrified Forest National Park, and recreational activities at Lyman Lake State Park including boating, water skiing, fishing and camping.  Less than an hour's drive south of St. Johns is the Apache Sitgreaves National Forest which contains primitive areas, rivers, lakes, and streams.  It is ideal for backpacking and hiking and is popular for hinting and fishing.

Of particular interest in the area are the prehistoric dwellings, petroglyph trails and archaeological programs for excavation opportunities.  The area also boasts numerous prehistoric sites open to the public; self-guided and/or guided tours are available at Rattlesnake Ruins, Raven Site and Casa Malpais. 

The Petrified Forest National Park, about 43 miles northwest of St. Johns, contains the largest and most spectacular forest of petrified logs on earth.  Adjacent to the Petrified Forest is the famous Painted Desert.  The Blue Hills about three miles north of St. Johns, have interesting formations (or layers) of blue, red and white painted desert clay.  Agate beds and dinosaur teeth have been found in the vicinity.