To learn more about each site and how the site meets your needs, call the land agency contact number and ask questions. Here are some example questions to ask:
For Federal lands contact numbers see Call Before You Go.
On the map above, click on a numbered diamond to learn more about that OHV site. You may also scroll down to read about all sites. Or Download Locator Map with Phone Numbers (
372 KB PDF)
Important Message: There are many places to ride Off-Highway Vehicles (OHVs) in Arizona. Some sites on this page include scenic backcountry roads maintained for passenger vehicles. Many sites are not developed or maintained for high speeds, jumps, or hill climbs. If you are interested in jumps and high speed, a local “Motocross” facility may better suit your needs:
Buckeye, AZ, (623) 853-0750 Casa Grande, AZ, (602) 326-8293 Casa Grande, AZ, (520) 421-9056 Eloy, AZ, (520) 743-7727 Mammoth, AZ, (520) 487-2731 Queen Creek, AZ, (480) 926-6688 Tucson, AZ, (520) 762-8771 Wittmann, AZ, (623) 546-1206 Yuma, AZ, (928) 783-7741For Federal lands contact numbers see Call Before You Go 
.
Arizona Strip † (north of the Colorado River)
The Arizona Strip, “where the west stays wild,” is that vast region of Arizona north of the Colorado River. Much of this remote and largely unsettled area is traversed by more than 5,000 miles of dirt roads. Road conditions range from well-maintained graded roads, to high clearance two-tracks, to challenging routes that require 4-wheel drive vehicles. No services are available in this largely backcountry area, so be prepared. Motorized vehicles are generally limited to existing routes, with wilderness areas closed and National Monuments limited to designated routes. Watch for signs in these areas. High Desert to Ponderosa Pine Forest. Generally all seasons, however, avoid use in wet weather. Contact the Bureau of Land Management, Arizona Strip Field Office, (435) 688-3200. More information about the Arizona Strip
Cinder Hills OHV Area (Flagstaff)
Comprises an extensive area of deep volcanic cinders in a ponderosa pine forest, east of Highway 89 and south of Sunset Crater National Monument. Protect the privilege of riding in this designated off-highway vehicle area by respecting the boundary of Sunset Crater National Monument. Approximately 13,500 acres available for all types of motorized vehicles. Ponderosa pine forest. All seasons, occasional snow in winter. To get to the Cinder Hills OHV Area, drive northeast of Flagstaff on US 89 approximately 7 miles north of Flagstaff Mall. Turn east (right) on FR 776. Contact Coconino National Forest, Peaks Ranger District, (928) 526-0866. For more information and a map
Kendrick and Mormon Lake / Pinewood Snowmobile Trail Systems
Riding areas are available for snowmobiles on signed trails, when conditions permit. Ponderosa pine forest. Contact Coconino National Forest, Peaks Ranger District, (928) 526-0866.
Long Draw OHV Route (Mogollon Rim)
This 30-mile loop for highway-legal/licensed vehicles is located on the Mogollon Rim northeast of Payson. Start at either Long Draw North Trailhead (Chevelon Crossing) or Long Draw South Trailhead (Chevelon Lake). Trailhead includes parking, toilets and campsite facilities. Area has shared use routes open for off-highway vehicle use, including snowmobile trails. Ponderosa pine forest. Generally all seasons, however, routes may be closed due to winter snow. Contact Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, Black Mesa Ranger District, (928) 535-4481.
Munds Park
The planned Munds Park OHV trail system will link the community and visitors to a network of Forest Service system roads in the area, with three-season riding in the cool pines. Routes may be closed in winter due to snow or other weather conditions. Contact Coconino National Forest, Peaks Ranger District, (928) 526-0866.
Hayfield Draw/Bryant Park OHV Area (Cottonwood)
Eight miles west of Camp Verde, south of Highway 260, Hayfield Draw has an 80-acre cross country area limited to ATVs and trail bikes, access to more than 100 miles of designated trails, and 2 acres of beginner’s course. Facilities include toilets, ramadas, picnic areas, and parking. High Desert. Spring, fall, winter seasons. Access: I-17 North to State High 260. 8 miles North West of Camp Verde on State Highway 260. Contact Prescott National Forest, Verde Ranger District, (928) 567-4121. More information about Hayfield Draw
Alto Pit OHV Recreation Area (Prescott)
A 400-acre site that lies four miles west of Prescott on Iron Springs Road. Includes 13-acre cross country area open to ATVs and trail bikes, 8 miles of designated trails for ATVs and trail bikes, and a beginner’s course for vehicles under 90cc. Facilities include restrooms, picnic tables, firerings, loading/unloading area, and shade ramadas are available for day use. Fee area ($3/day for day use). Camping available. Group camping requires special-use permit. Ponderosa pine forest type. All seasons, occasional snow in winter. Access: From downtown Prescott, take Gurley Street west to Montezuma Street. Take Montezuma (Whiskey Row) north until it turns into Iron Springs Road. Follow Iron Springs approximately 5 miles to Alto Pit. Contact Prescott National Forest, Bradshaw Ranger District, (928) 443-8000. More information about Alto Pit OHV Recreation Area
Download Alto Pit OHV Recreation Area Map ( 362 KB PDF)
OHV Site Locator Map 
Sheridan Mountain/Smith Mesa OHV Trail System (Prescott)
This 42-mile trail bike and ATV route system is located west of Chino Valley near Camp Wood. Primitive roads are also available for full-sized vehicles. No facilities or water available. Chaparral and ponderosa pine forest type. Trails at higher elevations not accessible during winter snow conditions. A trail system brochure is available. Contact Prescott National Forest, Bradshaw and Chino Valley Ranger District, (928) 443-8000 or (928) 777-2200. More information about Sheridan Mountain/Smith Mesa OHV Trail System
Download Sheridan Mountain/Smith Mesa OHV Trail System Map ( 564 KB PDF)
OHV Site Locator Map
Hualapai Mountain OHV Trailhead (Kingman)
Access to hundreds of miles of old mining routes near Kingman. Motorized travel is limited to existing routes. Elevations range from 6,500 feet in the pines to 1,000 feet in the low desert. The facility is a fee area that offers cabins, camping and a staging area. Contact Hualapai Mountain Park, (928) 757-3859. More information about Hualapai Mountain
Standard Wash (Lake Havasu City)
Just 5 miles south of Lake Havasu City, the area offers more than 7,500 acres providing fun, challenging trails for many types of OHV opportunities and camping. Use existing routes only. Low Desert. Spring, fall, winter seasons. Contact Bureau of Land Management, Lake Havasu Field Office, (928) 505-1200.
Parker 400 Desert Race Course † (La Paz County)
This desert racing event has been around since 1972. Although the course has changed over the years, it still offers three loops of about 136 miles. The race is usually on a weekend in late January or early February. The course offers a demanding, difficult route all year long. Parts of the course require vehicles to be highway-legal/licensed. Access near Parker, Arizona in La Paz County. Low Desert. Spring, fall, winter seasons. Contact Bureau of Land Management, Lake Havasu Field Office, (928) 505-1200.
Shea Spectator/Pit Areas and Osborn Wash
Located east of Parker using Shea Road, much of the area is defined by post and cable, which are the boundaries of a race vehicle pit and spectator areas of the Parker 400 Desert Race. The braided Osborn Wash is adjacent and to the south of the Spectator Area. These locations combine to create excellent OHV riding and camping opportunities. Low Desert. Spring, fall, winter seasons. Contact Bureau of Land Management, Lake Havasu Field Office, (928) 505-1200.
Swansea Townsite (30 miles east of Parker)
Located 30 miles east of Parker, this low desert area allows all types of OHVs and passenger cars. Tour historic mining town. Includes interpretation, picnic areas, facilities, and camping. Contact Bureau of Land Management, Lake Havasu Field Office, (928) 505-1200.
Ehrenberg Sandbowl
This area is located just south of the City of Ehrenberg, off of the Ehrenberg-Cibola Levee Road of the Colorado River. Approximately 2,000 acres of sand dunes are open to vehicle travel. Facilities include a parking lot, ATV loading ramps, and universally accessible vault toilets, shade ramadas, and picnic tables. Permits are required upon entry; current fee amounts are posted at the self-service kiosk on site where daily permits are available. Annual permits may be purchased from the Oxbow Campground Host approximately 20 miles south of the Sandbowl, or at the Bureau of Land Management office in Yuma. To access Ehrenberg Sandbowl use I-10 to Ehrenberg, AZ. Take Ehrenberg exit to South Frontage Road. Go West on frontage road approximately one mile. Turn left on gravel surfaced Ehrenberg/Cibola Road. Go south 3 miles to site entrance. Contact the Bureau of Land Management, Yuma Field Office, (928) 317-3200. More information about Ehrenberg Sandbowl
Ehrenberg-Cibola OHV Routes
Area is located between the City of Ehrenberg, the City of Cibola, the Colorado River, and the Yuma Proving Ground. Vehicle travel is limited to existing routes. Vehicle travel is prohibited in the Trigo Mountain Wilderness. Obey all warning signs and call the Yuma Proving Ground at (928) 328-2720 for access information. The Cibola National Wildlife Refuge is at the south part of the area. Obey signs and call the Refuge at (928) 857-3253 for information. Low Desert. Spring, fall, winter seasons. For maps and information contact the Bureau of Land Management, Yuma Field Office, (928) 317-3200 or email yfoweb_az(at)blm.gov.
La Posa OHV Routes (Quartzsite)
Area is located near Quartzsite, Arizona at the intersection of Highway 95 and Interstate 10. Yuma Proving Ground (928) 328-2720 on the southwest and the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge & Wilderness (928) 783-7861 on the southeast (call for access info). Vehicle travel is limited to existing routes, and prohibited in Wilderness areas. Obey all warning signs. Low Desert. Spring, fall, winter seasons. Contact the Bureau of Land Management, Yuma Field Office, (928) 317-3200 or email yfoweb_az(at)blm.gov.
Harquahala Mountain Summit Road Backcountry Byway
Rugged 3,000-foot and 10.5 mile climb to historic 1920 Smithsonian Solar Observatory. Site includes picnic areas, restrooms, access to historic hiking trail and primitive camping. Vehicle travel allowed only on existing routes. Sonoran Desert; hot in summer with thunderstorms, and wash outs on road. Contact Bureau of Land Management, Hassayampa Field Office, (623) 580-5500.
Yuma East OHV Routes
Area is located in Yuma and Maricopa Counties between Interstates 10 and 8, with the Yuma Proving Ground (928-328-2720) and Kofa National Wildlife Refuge (928-783-7861) to the west (call for access information). The area encompasses a large portion of the Arizona Game and Fish Department's Hunting Unit 41. Vehicle travel is limited to existing routes. No vehicle travel in Wilderness Areas. Obey all warning signs. Low desert. Spring, fall, winter seasons. Contact the Bureau of Land Management, Yuma Field Office, (928) 317-3200 or email yfoweb_az(at)blm.gov.
Hieroglyphic Mountains Area/ Boulders Staging Area † (Wickenburg)
Numerous OHV routes that traverse the country between Lake Pleasant (east), Wickenburg (west), and Prescott National Forest (north). Vehicle travel allowed only on existing routes. Boulders Staging Area, off Highway 74, between mileposts 11 and 12 offers access, camping and restroom. Area is a mix of private, state and public land, so comply with signs, carry a map, and do not trespass. Ride SLOW in staging area to reduce dust and for safety. Excess dust can site closure so please follow rules to help keep this site open. Low Desert. Spring, fall, winter seasons. Access Guide for this area is available from Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Contact BLM, Hassayampa Field Office, (623) 580-5500. This site is subject to closure on days when a high pollution advisory for dust (known as PM10) has been issued. Before heading out, please check to see if an advisory for PM10 has been issued at azdeq.gov/ensemble.pdf .
Download Hieroglyphic Mountains Area Map ( 386 KB PDF)
OHV Site Locator Map
Granite Mountain – No Vehicles Allowed – Restrictions Due to Dust Laws, City of Scottsdale Ordinance #3776
The Granite Mountain area is State Trust Land located within the City of Scottsdale boundaries. Motorized vehicle use is now prohibited. The site is still open to non-motorized use, however, staging (parking) on unpaved surfaces is prohibited.
State air quality legislation passed in 2007 (SB 1552) required cities to adopt specific dust control measures because a portion of Maricopa County and Pinal County exceeded federal air quality control standards for particulate matter less than 10 microns (PM-10). This is a public health and safety issue. The City of Scottsdale this spring adopted Ordinance No. 3776, which amends Scottsdale Revised Code Section 19-14. The ordinance states that motorized vehicles may be operated only on surfaces treated to control dust.
The City of Scottsdale is mandated to begin enforcement of Ordinance No. 3776 immediately. The Granite Mountain area does not meet current requirements for dust control. Riders will be subject to citation. Police will also be educating OHV riders and urging them to find other areas open to OHV use in anticipation of full enforcement of Scottsdale’s new ordinances.
To learn more about the Scottsdale ordinances, call the Scottsdale Environmental Hotline at 480-312-7899 or visit the Scottsdale website
OHV Site Locator Map Phoenix & Maricopa County OHV Rules
Rolls OHV Area
This 27,000-acre area is one hour from Phoenix, east of the Beeline Highway, north of Saguaro Lake, and south of the Four Peaks Road. Vehicle travel allowed only on existing routes. Low Desert. Spring, fall, winter seasons. Contact Tonto National Forest, Mesa Ranger District, (480) 610-3300. This site is subject to closure on days when a high pollution advisory for dust (known as PM10) has been issued. Before heading out, please check to see if an advisory for PM10 has been issued at azdeq.gov/ensemble.pdf .
Bulldog Canyon OHV Area (Saguaro Lake)
Located one hour from Phoenix, with access from the City of Mesa at Usery Pass Road, off of the Bush Highway. Vehicle travel allowed only on routes designated as open by brown fiberglass vertical markers. All routes other than FR10, 12, 1356, 3512, 3556, and 3554 are closed to motorized travel. Use of Bulldog OHV area requires a permit. Low Desert. All seasons. Get online directions to Bulldog area access locations Contact Tonto National Forest, Mesa Ranger District for a required permit (480) 610-3300. This site is subject to closure on days when a high pollution advisory for dust (known as PM10) has been issued. Before heading out, please check to see if an advisory for PM10 has been issued at azdeq.gov/ensemble.pdf .
Download Bulldog Canyon OHV Area Map ( 3.4 MB PDF)
OHV Site Locator Map
Desert Wells †
This site is available for recreational use, thanks to the collaborative efforts of volunteers and land management agencies. Over 180 miles of trails located one hour east of Phoenix, near Apache Junction (US Route 60 and State Route 79). This site requires an Arizona State Land Department (ASLD) recreation permit to ride. Vehicle travel is allowed only on existing signed routes. Grazing allotments for four different cattle ranches within this area; please stay out of cattle water tanks (which look like dirt mounds) and respect the closed gates and grazing areas. There are NO hillclimbs in this area. Area is relatively flat with some rolling trails. Excess dust can site closure so please follow rules to help keep this site open. Do not ride near the fence along the road. Help pick up trash. No target shooting. Low Desert. Spring, fall, winter seasons. Contact ASLD (602) 364-2753 to purchase a permit or learn about permits online. Contact AZ Game and Fish Department for an access guide at (602) 942-3000 or download online guide at Arizona Game & Fish Department website. This site is subject to closure on days when a high pollution advisory for dust (known as PM10) has been issued. Before heading out, please check to see if an advisory for PM10 has been issued at azdeq.gov/ensemble.pdf .
Mescal Mountains OHV Area (Kearny)
Near Kearny, area good for beginners and allows for all types of off-highway vehicles. Elevation from 2000 to 2400 feet. Use limited to existing routes which are on Bureau of Land Management managed land. Includes staging area, picnic and camping areas and restrooms. Low Desert. Contact Town of Kearny, (520) 363-5547. This site is subject to closure on days when a high pollution advisory for dust (known as PM10) has been issued. Before heading out, please check to see if an advisory for PM10 has been issued at azdeq.gov/ensemble.pdf .
Sunrise to Big Lake Snowmobile Route
When snow closes roads on the National Forests, this route remains open for snowmobile use. Facilities include toilets, and trailhead parking accommodates trailers. The route traverses beautiful mountains and meadows through forests of pine, spruce, and fir. Contact Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, Springerville Ranger District, (928) 333-4372.
Saffel Canyon Trail (Eagar)
Saffel Canyon Trail, near Eagar, includes some of the most spectacular views in the White Mountains. The trail begins at an elevation of 7600 feet and climbs to 9400 feet at Pat Knoll. Distance is 25 miles (round trip). Difficulty level is moderate. The trail goes through 3 distinct vegetation zones: pinyon-juniper, ponderosa pine, and mixed conifer. There is trailhead parking that accommodates trailers; trailhead has 2 picnic ramadas, restroom, and a "tot lot" where young riders can learn some basic ATV skills. Trail access near Eagar. Contact Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, Springerville Ranger District, (928) 333-4372. Map available.
Rattlesnake Gap (Greenlee County)
With more than 25 miles designated for OHVs, the Rattlesnake Gap OHV Trail is one of Greenlee County’s most popular routes. Located on the southernmost portion of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests, the area is well known by hunters, anglers, photographers, campers, and those just out for an adventurous drive. It may seem like a relaxing drive in the country at first, but can quickly turn treacherous if the weather gets rough. Some routes in the area are restricted to highway-legal/licensed vehicles. Two campgrounds with tables and fire rings have been installed in the Rattlesnake Gap area. Contact Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, Clifton Ranger District, (928) 687-1301. Download map and information here.
Download Rattlesnake Gap General Map & Rules ( 77 KB PDF)
Download Rattlesnake Gap Detailed Map & Rules ( 2 MB PDF)
OHV Site Locator Map
Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area
Located 20 miles northeast of Safford, offers rugged OHV opportunities. Motorized vehicles are restricted to designated roads. The Gila River corridor is closed to all motorized vehicles within the Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area (RNCA). High Desert. Spring, fall, winter seasons. Contact Bureau of Land Management, Safford Field Office, (928) 348-4400.
Black Hills Backcountry Byway (Safford)
The old Safford-Clifton Highway takes you back in time and offers challenging 4x4 side trips. The south entrance is 16 miles east of Safford. High Desert. Spring, fall, winter seasons. Contact Bureau of Land Management, Safford Field Office, (928) 348-4400.
Hot Well Dunes Recreation Area (Safford)
This 2,000-acre “open” dune area is located 35 miles south of Safford.
Facilities include two hot tubs, restrooms, developed and undeveloped
campsites, picnic areas and a watchable wildlife area. OHV travel is also
allowed on existing routes outside the Hot Well Dunes Recreation Area. High
Desert. Spring, fall, winter seasons. Contact Bureau of Land Management, Safford Field Office, (928) 348-4400.
Redington Pass Backcountry Touring Area (Tucson)
Located approximately 12 miles northeast of the City of Tucson or 24 miles south of San Manuel. Redington Road is the only access into this OHV recreation and natural resource area. Motorized travel is only permitted on designated routes. The secondary dirt roads found in this touring area are very rugged, and will challenge your technical driving skills. A high ground clearance 4X4 vehicle is strongly recommended. ATV and dirt bike riders find this area just as technically challenging. High desert and oak woodland area. More information and a map. For an area brochure contact the Coronado National Forest, Santa Catalina Ranger District, (520) 749-8700.
Download Redington Pass Backcountry Map ( 104 KB PDF)
OHV Site Locator Map
Pima Motorsports Park (Tucson)
Located south of Tucson, this county-operated park includes competitive and practice/beginner motorcross tracks that allows bikes only. Other riding areas include an ATV track, cross-country trail and OHV obstacle course. Offers ATV certification classes. Low desert. Park for day use only and requires a fee. Contact Pima County Parks and Recreation Department (520) 877-6000.
Santa Rita Mountain Backcountry Touring Area (Sonoita)
Just west of Highway 83 and north of Sonoita, the east side of Santa Rita Mountains offers miles of roads in high desert and oak woodland foothills. All seasons, avoid wet conditions. More information and a map. Contact Coronado National Forest, Nogales Ranger District, (520) 281-2296.
Download Santa Rita Mountain Map ( 1.1 MB PDF)
OHV Site Locator Map
South Patagonia Mountains (Sierra Vista)
Between Nogales and Sierra Vista, east of Highway 82, the Patagonia Mountain range offers many opportunities for OHV recreation. High desert scrub and oak woodland. All seasons, avoid wet conditions. Contact Coronado National Forest, Sierra Vista Ranger District, (520) 378-0311. More information.
Download South Patagonia Mountains Map ( 147 KB PDF)
OHV Site Locator Map
The Great Western Trail (GWT)
The Great Western Trail (GWT) is a long and primitive, shared-use route anticipated to run from Mexico to Canada through Arizona, Utah, Idaho, and Montana. The 800-mile Arizona Section of the GWT is nearly 50% complete and located on existing backcountry routes. North of Phoenix, the GWT traverses rugged and beautiful country on the Tonto, Prescott and Kaibab National Forests, as well as BLM lands on the Arizona Strip. Some segments require vehicles to be highway-licensed/legal. Click here for more information.
† = Crosses parcels of state trust land.
Learn more about other Arizona off-highway vehicle opportunities
Bureau of Land Management
Visitors have unique and uncommon opportunities to rediscover the splendor of the West's public lands by highway and backcountry routes. Whether you are a skilled 4-wheeled vehicle driver or you have just rented a car (and have promised to stay on the pavement!), there are many places on public lands where you can get off the beaten path and enjoy Arizona's diverse scenery, heritage, and challenges. National Back Country Byways, Scenic Drives, and Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Opportunities abound throughout the state.
USDA Forest Service OHV Information
New laws have been adopted across the Phoenix metropolitan area in response to air quality concerns. Some cities now restrict the operation of motorized vehicles on many unpaved roads and vacant lots. Check with your local law enforcement or city office to find out if your recreational use is permissible.
On days when a high pollution advisory FOR PARTICULATE MATTER has been issued by the Arizona Department for Environmental Quality (ADEQ), off-highway vehicle activities on unpaved surfaces will not be permitted in most incorporated areas of Maricopa County and some portions of other counties. ADEQ determines what days qualify as HPA days for PM-10. For more information and to sign up for text message alerts go online to www.azdeq.gov/sms.html.
Download Additional Phoenix & Maricopa County Information ( 98 KB PDF)
The Great Western Trail (GWT) is a long and primitive, shared-use route anticipated to run from Mexico to Canada through Arizona, Utah, Idaho, and Montana. The 800-mile Arizona Section of the GWT is nearly 50% complete and located on existing backcountry routes. North of Phoenix, the GWT traverses rugged and beautiful country on the Tonto, Prescott and Kaibab National Forests, as well as BLM lands on the Arizona Strip. Some segments require vehicles to be highway-licensed/legal.
The GWT provides an opportunity for the more adventurous to discover Arizona on a road less traveled. It incorporates stunning desert and canyon landscapes, plateaus, woodlands, dense forests and alpine meadows. It is a "corridor of discovery" that provides the traveler not only with a primitive, back country experience, but also with opportunities to learn about the ancient cultures, history and environments of Arizona. Existing GWT routes in Arizona have followed established roads and jeep trails with very little new construction.
The GWT is “work in progress”. The GWT concept is to designate a trail system that traverses thousands of miles through Arizona, Utah, Idaho, Wyoming, and Montana. A diverse partnership of land management agencies, the Arizona Great Western Trail Association (AZGWT), and many local organizations worked hard at making the Arizona section of the GWT a reality.
The first segment of GWT established in Arizona was the Bulldog Canyon Trail, on the Tonto National Forest, dedicated in 1996. This was followed by the 72 mile Cave Creek segment, also on the Tonto NF. The Sears-Kay Ruin, an ancient Hohokam village atop a hill overlooking the GWT near Cave Creek, became the first sanctioned "Point of Discovery" along the trail. 72 miles have also been dedicated and signed on the Prescott NF. On the South Kaibab NF, 84 miles of GWT have been located and all trail improvements were completed. In order for the South Kaibab section to connect to State Highway 64, up to 21 miles of highway/road on the Navajo Reservation must be used.
From Hwy. 64, the GWT traveler must drive nearly 100 miles on pavement to circumvent the Grand Canyon. The route follows U.S. 89, then 89A to a point 19 miles west of Marble Canyon where, beneath the beautiful Vermilion Cliffs, the GWT leaves the pavement and heads for the Kaibab Plateau. This 55-mile section starts on BLM land at about 4,500 ft. elevation, climbs to 8,000 feet on the North Kaibab NF, and then returns to the desert at the Utah border.
The original proposal for the GWT south from the Tonto NF was developed through many hours and days of volunteer time. It contains many scenic and challenging sections of 4-wheel drive roads. While it has been possible to locate most of the northern 2/3 of the Arizona GWT on Federal land, this will not be the case for the southern portion. Because the Federal land in southern Arizona is scattered and divided by state and private land, it will be much more difficult to establish large sections of GWT here. It is likely that the GWT in this part of the state will be a collection of passages connected by graded county roads or State highways.
Great progress was made on the Great Western Trail to date. The AZGWT Association is not currently active. Agencies are currently inventorying the designated GWT section to provide better maps. In the meantime contact the appropriate land agency for each section of the trail you desire to traverse (which may include multiple Forest Service Ranger Districts, BLM Field Offices, and other entities). Some portion of the GWT map are in the Arizona Atlas & Gazetteer (purchase at map stores).
Download Great Western Trail Map ( 2.3 MB PDF)
Each Forest (U.S. Dept of Agriculture, Forest Service) in the United States are in the process of designated routes for motorized vehicle travel. When the maps are complete, they are posted online.
Off-highway vehicles are permitted, with restrictions, in many areas under BLM administration in Arizona and along the Colorado River in California. Other areas, such as designated wilderness and other sensitive areas, are closed to OHV use. BLM, in partnership with Arizona State Parks OHV Program, is developing a series of OHV Access Guides identifying motorized routes available to the public. Currently available:
This publication can be purchased for $4.00 at the Explore Arizona Outdoor Information Center, (602) 417-9300.
To obtain a travel map for the area you wish to ride or for books and information about Arizona’s public lands call or visit the Explore Arizona Outdoor Information Center, (602) 417-9300.
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