Beginner Off-Road Trails Near Catalina Foothills, Arizona

Start on East Golder Ranch Drive. Turn left through the cattle guard onto E Equestrian Trail. At a corral, you take the right at the Y and proceed onto a single-vehicle-width trail. The trail remains…
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This trail offers a simple, low-difficulty route north of Tucson, Arizona, with a six-mile stretch that climbs and winds up the mountain and provides some appealing views. Beyond this section, the road remains straightforward and…
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When accessing this trail, the turn to the west from Highway 77 (North Oracle Road) has its own stoplight, making the turn easier. The road has several cattle guards, some with missing bars, so be…
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This cut-across from East Edwin Road to East Cochise Springs Road is a nice 4x4 track that leads you to many more remote campsites and to the "Badlands" loop trail system for mountain bikes. The…
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The trail veers off of the East Edwin Road just after crossing the first wash. You turn north onto the trail. The trail weaves through some tight spots in trees and cacti. The mud holes…
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Redington Pass is a very popular two-lane road with lots of dispersed camping on the western slope overlooking Tucson. This pass varies in difficulty from deep ruts and washouts with many full washes. Most of…
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You can start this trail from the north at Highway 79 or south at East Edwin Road. The trail follows a small powerline and cuts through several washes. Be careful in monsoon season or while…
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If you love breathtaking scenery, driving through saguaro forests, and adventurous off-road experiences, the Continental Copper Access route is perfect for you! This road starts around two-thirds up the mountainside, beginning at the Mount Lemmon…
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This is a mid-mountain forest road segment in Catalina National Forest, northwest of Tucson, Arizona. It is accessible via Peppersauce Canyon and is an enjoyable, mildly challenging primitive route that culminates high on a mountain…
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This route kicks off in the wooded, lower elevations of Peppersauce Canyon, northeast of Tucson, Arizona. It is a primitive, yet well-traveled two-track that runs parallel to a wash, westward into the Catalina Mountains. This…
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This route to Chiva Falls follows the main Chiva Falls Trail (Forest Road 4417), offering a scenic and more approachable way to reach the falls without tackling the notorious Three Feathers obstacle. It's a classic…
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Park Tank Road (Forest Road 4424) is a scenic connector weaving between the Chiva Falls Loop and Italian Trap Trail through classic Sonoran Desert terrain. This trail is a mix of sandy stretches, rocky ledges,…
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Willow Springs Road stands out as one of the best-maintained main arteries in the area, providing a smooth and easily navigable route. This trail accommodates larger vehicles quite comfortably, including motorhomes and campers, especially in…
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Bajada Loop is one to two-lane dirt and gravel loop road within Saguaro National Park that has lots of washboards and some potholes. It is one way in some areas and should be started from…
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Falcon Valley Ranch Trail offers a rugged off-road experience, with dips, erosion, and ruts that add mellow technical challenges along the way. The trail features some braiding, requiring attention to stay on the most passable…
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The Gasline Trail mirrors the rugged nature of Lovetta, featuring steep hills with loose, off-camber erosion that requires careful attention. As you navigate, keep an eye out for hilltop campsites, offering scenic spots to stop…
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The eastern section of East Willow Springs Road offers a well-manicured two-track trail that winds through vibrant fields of prickly pear, cholla cactus, and yucca plants. As you journey along this route, you'll enjoy stunning…
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Lovetta Trail is a rugged, one-lane route that offers steep hills with loose, off-camber erosion, requiring careful navigation. While challenging, the trail remains manageable for experienced drivers. Mellow wash crossings add a touch of ease,…
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North Cascabel Road follows along the San Pedro River Valley connecting Globe to Benson, AZ. This route is section 2 of the Arizona Back Country Discovery route Benson to Globe. The road is lined with…
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Boulevard is a wide and rolling trail that offers a mellow, easygoing drive. The route features gentle wash crossings and no obstacles, making it a smooth ride for vehicles of all types. With one bar…
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This trail starts on a steep and rocky incline but quickly settles into a well-maintained ranch road with some small seasonal mud patches. It offers stunning views of the valley between the Rincon and the…
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The San Pedro River Road extends for about 10 miles, with approximately 4.5 miles consisting of a dirt and gravel trail. The trail is generally well-maintained and easy to navigate. The only potentially challenging section…
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The Happy Valley Road winds past the charming historic movie town of Mescal. It travels through verdant riparian zones and expansive grasslands of the surrounding ranches. Along the way, you can find several idyllic dispersed…
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Lovetta's Loop begins with an exciting transition from Goff's Trail, quickly dropping into a sandy wash that sets the tone for the adventure ahead. As you navigate this twisting and turning route through the deep…
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Big Tank and Suffering Wash is a delightful trail that offers a unique glimpse into the area's wildlife. Swing by Big Tank for a chance to observe local bovines enjoying a refreshing drink or perhaps…
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This route offers amazing scenery and a more challenging alternative to Happy Valley. It used to be the main road to Happy Valley but was bypassed to make the ascent over the pass at Paige…
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The Gas Pipeline route from Freeman to Lovetta is a fantastic option for easy access across the desert landscape. Starting at the northern end, you'll find numerous pull-offs perfect for dispersed camping, accommodating everything from…
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Goff Wash is a well-traveled and well-compacted trail that connects the gas pipeline route down to Goff Ranch Road, providing a straightforward option for those looking to explore the area. Generally characterized by a flat…
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Mesa Tank Cutoff is a wide and easy trail that offers a straightforward drive with no obstacles. Expect some cactus along the route, as well as cattle grazing in the area, so keep an eye…
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Southwest Goff Ranch Road offers a well-graded and nicely manicured trail that runs southwest from the gas pipeline road, providing a scenic and accessible journey through the Arizona desert. The trail briefly travels alongside powerlines…
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