Sunset Point: A Scenic Oasis on I-17

Sunset Point Rest Area, located off Interstate 17 between Black Canyon City and Cordes Junction, is more than just a place to stretch your legs; it's a destination in itself. Perched on the edge of Black Mesa, about 40 miles north of Phoenix, this rest area provides a sweeping vista of the Bradshaw Mountains to the west and the expansive valley below.Opened in 1970, Sunset Point quickly gained recognition, earning the title of “Outstanding Safety Rest Area with Sanitary and Other Facilities” by the Federal Highway Administration in 1971. Today, it continues to be one of Arizona's most visited rest stops, serving over a million visitors annually.Sunset Point offers a range of amenities for travelers. Clean restrooms, vending machines, picnic areas, and ramadas provide comfort and convenience. The rest area also features family restrooms, wheelchair-accessible facilities, and pet areas, ensuring all visitors are accommodated. Informational posters and a sundial center honoring highway construction workers add an enriching touch to the experience. The sundial memorial pays tribute to Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) employees who have died while serving the state.Recent renovations, completed in 2023, have further enhanced the rest area. These upgrades include renovated restrooms, improved signage, sidewalks, lighting, and landscaping. The original restroom building, closed in 2010, was also renovated and reopened, increasing capacity and accessibility.