Arizona Off-Road Trails: Our Top Picks | Wet Sounds

Let us help you find your perfect adventure, whether you are a biker, trail runner, or adventurer. We explore various Arizona off-road trails and highlight what they offer.

Those planning to enjoy the outdoors and explore off-road trails can find many activities. The options vary depending on the season. During the summer, people can enjoy high mountain or road trails. Winter is an excellent time to explore canyons and sand washes. You can find an Arizona off-road trails map and other resources to guide you through your adventure. Grab some Arizona off-road maps and explore the following list of the most exciting Arizona off-road trails.

Backway to Crown King

Image via Flickr by Coconino NF Photography

Backway to Crown King is a moderate to challenging trail that is about 26 miles long. It winds through the Bradshaw Mountains and has exceptional views, climbs, and a few challenging terrain features. Some of these elements have bypasses that explorers can alternatively use. 

Old Crown King trail terrain changes seasonally due to rain and erosion. We recommend it for people with excellent off-roading skills. Use well-maintained high-clearance vehicles that can easily maneuver through the rough road. Powersports Audio on your ATV is the perfect way to enjoy music as you explore Backway to Crown King. Be sure to visit the Cleator Bar and Yacht Club and explore the area itself off the trails.

Bloody Basin Road

Take a day to drive through this 38-mile easy road passing through the Agua Fria National Monument. The region is home to Native American ruins and old cabins owned by early settlers. Visitors can also look around for petroglyphs and experience impressive views from the area's highest point at almost 5,000 feet. 

You can also enjoy the hidden hot springs situated north of the bridge, on the west side. As you descend the bridge, the road gets rockier. Jeeps, SUVs, ATVs, and dirt bikes are suitable for the terrain. Area management also permits unlicensed vehicles.

Broken Arrow

This iconic off-road trail with red rock formations is south of Sedona. Among the best trails in Arizona, Broken Arrow is relatively short with a moderate difficulty level. A complete drive inclusive of all the sidewalks is about 4 miles, taking about two hours to cover. The trail narrows as it passes through the forest. Traffic along the trail can increase especially during the weekends. The provided pullouts are helpful when the traffic is heavy. 

Early in the morning, you can enjoy the spectacular sunrise over the Mogollon Rim cliffs. You can also experience the most challenging obstacle known as “The Steps.” This attraction and other significant rock obstacles need high-ground clearance vehicles such as Jeeps, MTBs, ATVs, and dirt bikes. You'll encounter more obstacles on the way back, but you can choose to skip them. Be cautious and polite to hikers and mountain bikers using the trail. 

Box Canyon

Box Canyon is a popular trail that follows the Hassayampa River. It provides terrific scenes to the area and offers an opportunity to splash through the desert river. Often, the water is shallow or entirely dry. 

The 3-mile trail is easy and can take about three to five hours to explore. To make it a full-day exploration, proceed to the north and connect with other area trails. You can exit through the Rincon Road or follow the scenic river bed. The sand is primarily soft and dry, but some sections are wet. For better traction of your high-clearance ATV or UTV, air down the tires or follow the existing path. UTV accessories such as Shivr cooler speakers are a great way to enjoy some music while adventuring.

El Camino del Diablo

El Camino del Diablo is a relatively easy, long, and remote trail that offers the best views of the Sonoran Desert. It passes through the Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge, and the Barry Goldwater Gunnery Range. The trail then exits at Yuma. 

Although the trail can prove to be challenging, it gets rewarding when you plan adequately. We would recommend a one- to three-day trip on the trail. Obtain necessary permits and sign the required waivers. Avoid traveling during summer due to the intense heat. 

Avoid trips during rainy seasons since the roads might become impassable. Be aware that some long sections lack cell coverage. Carry extra food, water, fuel, warm clothing for nights, and spare vehicle parts. Be sure to use high-clearance vehicles for this trail. 

Smiley Rock

Smiley Rock is a 23-mile challenging trail located west of Jerome and Cottonwood. Drive through the track in about four hours while enjoying the stunning views of Verde Valley. The Martin Canyon, bordering Woodchute Wilderness to the south, is excellent for adventure. Part of the road through the canyon is narrow and rugged, which contributes to the trail's difficult rating. Use high-clearance, modified vehicles with skid plates and proper articulation, such as Jeeps, ATVs, or dirt bikes. Various hiking and camping points along this trail are part of the Great Western Trail.

We recommend visiting Jerome, a historic city that is a notable visitor destination. It is built on a cliff and is home to gift shops, restaurants, museums, and art galleries. You can stop at Ghost Town and Gold King Mine or drive to Jerome State Historic Park along the route to Jerome. These sites require a small fee to gain access. 

Four Peaks Trail

This off-road trail in Arizona is in the Tonto National Forest, on the northern side of Four Peaks Wilderness. The 20-mile trail offers various activities. It is easy to moderate and covers 28 miles when using Highway 87 to Highway 188. As you drive through the course, you'll discover magnificent views of Lake Roosevelt and the Mazatzal Mountains. You'll also find many side trails and campsites along the route. Use Jeeps, SUVs, ATVs, and dirt bikes for this trail.

Consider the above key factors when exploring the off-road trails in Arizona. Experience the glory of nature and the thrill when you off road in Arizona.