When it comes to off-roading adventures, the United States offers an incredible array of options. While renowned destinations like Moab, Utah, often steal the spotlight, we're here to uncover the off-road treasures of Arizona.
Allow Magnum Truck Gear to be your guide to the diverse landscapes of the place we’re proud to call home. Whether you’re a seasoned pro plotting your next expedition or a newbie seeking your first thrill there's a trail out here to satisfy every off-road enthusiast and their 4x4 ride of choice. We’ll take you from Sedona’s Red Rock Paradise to Table Mesa's extreme terrain providing details on terrain type and difficulty, so you know what to expect.
Sedona, Arizona - Red Rock Paradise:
Located in the heart of northern Arizona, Sedona is famous for its mesmerizing red rock formations and offers a variety of off-roading experiences. Most trails in Sedona do not require permits so there is no need to worry about paperwork.
Schnebly Hill Road (Easy): A relatively easy trail with spectacular vistas, making it suitable for beginners.
Broken Arrow Trail (Intermediate): This trail takes you through iconic red rock formations, offering stunning views. It can be compared to the "Fins and Things" trail in Moab, Utah, known for its challenging terrain and scenic beauty.
Soldier Pass Trail (Intermediate): Known for the picturesque Devil's Kitchen sinkhole, this trail offers a mix of rocky terrain and scenic beauty.
Crown King, Arizona - A Historic Off-Road Adventure:
Crown King is a historic mining town nestled within the majestic Bradshaw Mountains. Here, you'll encounter steep and rocky ascents that will test the mettle of even the most experienced rock crawlers. The breathtaking views that await those who heed the call and conquer these trails make the journey just as rewarding as the destination. It's important to note, though, that to access some of the more challenging trails, you'll need a state trust land permit.
Backway to Crown King Trail (Intermediate to Hard): This trail is a steep and rugged ascent into the mountains, suitable for intermediate to advanced off-roaders. It can be compared to the world-renowned "Rubicon Trail" in South Lake Tahoe, California, known for its similarly challenging terrain and breathtaking views. This is considered a “Jeeping” or for our Ford Bronco friends, a 'bucking' trail! Hold onto your hats because this ride is going to be a wild one, and we strongly recommend arriving at Crown King with your trusty 4WD companion.
Cleator Road (Easy): Cleator Road is an easy, scenic route leading to the historic town of Cleator, perfect for beginners. It offers a more relaxed experience compared to the "Crown King Trail".
Four Peaks, Tonto National Forest, Arizona:
Tonto National Forest, with its lush foliage and towering Ponderosa pine trees create a stunning backdrop and offers a rich tapestry of off-roading adventures. The terrain here is as diverse as the landscape itself, featuring rocky climbs, sandy washes, and enchanting water crossings that add to the allure of this natural playground making it a local favorite and crazy busy on the weekends.
Four Peaks is also home to the picturesque Lake Roosevelt, a tranquil oasis that beckons those seeking respite from the scorching heat. Notably, you'll discover sections in this area that aren't overly technical, welcoming full-size rigs such as Ford Super Duty trucks, Chevy Suburban’s, Rams, and heck even minivans to partake in the fun.
Rolls OHV Area (Intermediate to Hard): This area provides challenging rock crawling and steep climbs, reminiscent of the "Metal Masher" trail in Moab.
El Oso OHV Area (Easy to Intermediate): El Oso offers a mix of trails suitable for a range of skill levels.
Apache Trail, Arizona - A Scenic Off-Road Route:
The Apache Trail, a historic 42-mile route that winds through the Superstition Mountains, promises an unforgettable adventure. This scenic road takes you on a captivating journey, passing by ghost towns, gold mines, and serene lakes.
As you embark on this scenic drive, we highly recommend taking your time and making stops along the way. One particularly inviting spot is Apache Lake, where you can set up camp and soak in the tranquil surroundings. Keep your eyes on the left side of the canyon, and you might spot the distinctive silhouette of the Sleeping Soldier, a natural marvel that adds to this one-of-a-kind experience.
Apache Trail Scenic Drive (Easy): This is a mostly paved scenic route but offers breathtaking views of the Superstition Mountains, like the scenic portions of Moab's "Arches National Park" route.
Table Mesa Recreation Area, New River, Arizona:
Situated just north of Phoenix, Table Mesa Recreation Area is a popular spot for off-roading, offering a range of trails that vary in difficulty. It is essential to have an Arizona State Trust Land Recreation Permit to access this area. For beginners, there are easy, relatively flat trails that allow for a leisurely off-roading experience. There are intermediate trails that combine a bit of challenge with scenic desert views.
Crapshoot Trail (Hard): Crapshoot Trail in Table Mesa offers a thrilling off-roading experience, known for its mix of rugged terrain, loose gravel, and sandy washes.
New River Trail via West Table Mesa Road (Intermediate): This trail is characterized by a moderately steep grade, providing a bit of an elevation change to keep things interesting. The combination of rocky obstacles and natural beauty makes it a popular choice among local off-roaders.
Arizona is a gem for off-roading enthusiasts, offering a wide range of off-road parks and trails that showcase the state's natural beauty and diverse terrain. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced off-roader, you'll find trails that match your skill level and provide thrilling experiences. So, pack your gear, add what you’re missing to the cart, hit the Arizona trails, and let the off-roading adventures begin!