Alb to Phx via I40

[WFD]

In a couple weeks we will be travelling to Phoenix from waaaay up North. Our route will take us to Albuquerque. Weather permitting(we will make that call once we get closer to Alb) our plan is to continue W on I-40...my question is would it be best to go Holbrook and Payson or take 117 in NM near Grants and 36 on to 60 through to Phx...I know that the 60 route will be a bit longer and slower, but am told that it is very scenic.
We aren't towing a trailer, since we are just going for a month(that's a whole other story that isn't important to this post).

[CHICKDOE]

they both work. from holbrook to payson the road is two lane, but in good condition. from payson to phoenix it is a great 4 lane divided hwy with some great views. the payson route is shorter. there is scenery on both. check the weather as you will be in 'the rim country' at higher elevations and weather does occasionally happen. just have a gret drive and enjoy it.

[lbrjet]

Come in via Payson and back via Show Low. Try to stop at the ranger station for a photo at the top of the rim, but beware it is easy to miss the left turn.

[CHICKDOE]

yes there are some fantastic views right off the edge of the rim. I believe the ranger station is on the south side of route 260 right at the intersection of woods lake canyon road. or turn north on the woods lake canyon road and within a couple of miles there are several viewpoints literally on the edge of the rim looking out over vast views. good idea, come in one way and return the other!

[WFD]

Thanks for the suggestions...will do just that. We will have more time on our way down so we will look for the ranger station on the way down.