Corder Loop

Corder Loop offers an engaging and scenic high-altitude offroad experience for intermediate drivers seeking to explore the rugged slopes of Burro Mountain in the White Mountains of Arizona. Spanning approximately 5.9 miles, this mountain loop delivers a moderate adventure with elevation changes of about 962 feet, taking riders from a base of 8,992 feet up to a peak altitude of 9,773 feet. The trail serves as a perfect side trek from the larger Burro Mountain Loop, winding through dense stands of ponderosa pines and open meadows along the eastern edge of the Fort Apache Reservation. The unpaved surface consists mostly of dirt mixed with sections of loose rock and gravel, which can become slick and challenging during inclement weather. To ensure a safe and successful journey, vehicles equipped with high clearance, four-wheel-drive, and a low-range transfer case are highly recommended. Rated a 4 out of 10 in technical difficulty, the loop features obstacles such as tight turns, sloped off-camber sections, and loose rocky ascents that demand attentive driving. Stock high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles, OHVs, and SxSs will find the route highly enjoyable, though less experienced drivers may find some of the steep, rocky pitches challenging. Rapid weather shifts are common at this elevation, making it wise to pack rain gear for sudden afternoon thunderstorms that can quickly turn the dirt trail to mud. The trail is best accessed via Arizona State Route 273 near Basin Lake, making it an easy and accessible add-on for offroaders already exploring the region. The optimal seasons to ride this high-country route are late spring through autumn, before winter snowpacks close off the area's high-elevation trails.