Beginner Off-Road Trails Near Tucson, Arizona

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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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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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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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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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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The Rosemont Trail offers a scenic route that primarily winds through dry washes, providing a mix of easygoing terrain and occasional challenges, this trail is well worth the effort. Several trailheads can be found along…
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This is a scenic drive through the Santa Rita Mountains that gets you up and out of the desert and into the oaks. Great views along the way! Coming from the east side of the…
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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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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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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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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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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…
Learn more about Happy Valley FR 35

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 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…
Learn more about Old Happy Valley Road FR 4406

Nestled in Arizona's expanse, a slice of "Big Sky" country unfolds along Cienega Creek. Just 45 miles southeast of Tucson, this landscape boasts wide-open grasslands, panoramic mountain views, and meandering waters that transport you to…
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Oak Tree Canyon is on the historic Empire Ranch, which is now known as the Las Cienegas National Conservation Area. This section features expansive mountain views, craggy peaks, and a visit to a historical site.…
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The Andrada Tank Loop is a scenic trail that offers breathtaking views of the Sonoran Desert landscape and the nearby Whetstone Mountains. The trail winds through desert terrain featuring prickly pear cacti, ocotillo plants, and…
Learn more about Andrada Tank Loop FR 6905

Melendrez Pass is a scenic off-road trail located in Arizona, ideal for those looking to explore the rugged beauty of the desert. Along the way, you'll encounter stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys,…
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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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Kentucky Gulch provides a gentle ascent through undulating hill terrain, with the trail meandering amidst grassy hills dotted with oak, juniper, agave, and other distinctive plant species. Be sure to check the weather conditions before…
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Fish East is a fairly easy connector trail with few obstacles. Along Fish East, you'll discover a blend of intriguing sights and natural beauty. You'll come across remnants of old mining operations, such as those…
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The Apache Spring Trail is a rugged and beautifully scenic route that leads to a deserted cabin at the end, where a small campsite offers a stand-up BBQ, natural wind protection, and a small spring…
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This road is a simple dirt road that is typically graded with occasional washboarding and is a gateway to much of the Cienega Creek and the Las Cienegas National Conservation Areas. Along the landscape, you…
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East Yucca Farm Road is a well-maintained route that descends into the lower grasslands, offering a scenic drive through open landscapes. Along the way, travelers will find numerous dispersed campsites in addition to a designated…
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Bear Springs Canyon is a scenic and enjoyable trail that was recently maintained as of 3/12/25, though conditions can change quickly, especially with rain in the forecast. The route winds through open grasslands before narrowing…
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Gardner Canyon is a rugged forest road that features creek crossings, gorgeous grasslands, and a little local history. This trail is a scenic canyon drive dotted with mesquite, scrub oak, tall grasses, and cacti. This…
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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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From Gardner Canyon Road, turn left on 785 to the intersection, then go left on 4111. Follow this trail to the T intersection, turn right on 4088, follow this to another T intersection. This trail…
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