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Sonoita and Patagonia: AZ-83 and 82, Sonoita Grasslands, Arizona
Photo: BLMArizona · Public domain

Drives Arizona Tucson and Southern Arizona

Sonoita and Patagonia: AZ-83 and 82

Sonoita Grasslands, Arizona · Vail → Patagonia

Leisurely38 mi40 min2,600 ft climbHigh point ≈ 5,200 ftOne way
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The drive

AZ 83 rolls south from I-10 at Vail through oak-dotted hills to the high grassland and wineries around Sonoita. There AZ 82 follows Sonoita Creek down to the small town of Patagonia, with the Santa Rita Mountains in view.

The curves are gentle and traffic is light, so this is a relaxed drive more than a twisty one. AZ 82 continues south of Patagonia past Patagonia Lake to Nogales.

Along the way

  1. Vail (I-10, exit 281)
  2. Sonoita
  3. Patagonia
Elevation
2,600 ft of climbing · high point ≈ 5,200 ft
VailPatagonia
Curves
Mostly gentle curves
VailPatagonia
GentleHairpins

Good to know

  • Traffic is light, but plan stops in Sonoita and Patagonia.

Open all year, weather permitting. Roads close for snow, fire, storms and repairs: before you set off, check Arizona 511 (ADOT).

Questions about this drive

How long does AZ 83 and 82 from Vail to Patagonia take?

The drive from Vail to Patagonia is 37.6 miles and takes about 40 minutes.

Is the Sonoita drive twisty?

No. It's rated Leisurely, with mostly gentle curves.

What is Sonoita known for?

The high grassland around Sonoita is known for its wineries.

What you get in the app

Turn by turn, on this roadSpoken directions along the exact route. Carve never reroutes you onto a faster one.
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More drives near here

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Distance, time, elevation, curves and intensity are from Carve's route. Checked 2026-10-28.

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Map of Sonoita and Patagonia: AZ-83 and 82, from Vail to Patagonia