Trail Overview
Ghost Loop is an adventurous out-and-back off-road trail tucked entirely within Prescott National Forest—a special treat for experienced drivers seeking both a challenge and a bit of mystery. This quirky trail isn’t just tough; it keeps you guessing. In sections, the path seems to vanish into grass and brush, earning its “ghost” name. Stay alert, follow your onX track carefully, and don’t let the trail’s disappearing act throw you off. Several gates will cross your path; always close each one behind you. The route is no short jaunt: it’s about 10 miles to reach the loop, 5 miles to circle the loop itself, and another 10 miles retracing your route back to the start. Plan for enough daylight to complete the journey, and come prepared. Shade is limited, so pack a hat and sunscreen. Begin your drive from the fenced pipeline cathodic protection station. Follow the pipeline trail east, then turn north to reach the power lines. From there, head east along the lines until you make a right turn south toward the start of the actual loop. Just after you turn south, watch for a wildlife water collection structure that you will drive around—a sign that the Forest Service looks after local wildlife. You’ll spot two of these on your way to the loop. When you arrive, stay right and travel the loop in a counterclockwise direction. Keep onX zoomed in to stay on track. As you travel the west side of the loop, you’ll pass a black plastic water tank, then encounter a gate warning of a “locked gate ahead” meant to protect mining areas. Good news: you can go through since you won’t be going far enough on the trail to hit the locked gate or any restricted zones—just stick to the onX track. The counterclockwise drive gets tougher as you go, with the first half being easy and the loop’s second half providing the biggest challenge. The trickiest stretch is the final wash before you rejoin the loop’s entry point, where you’ll enjoy some rock crawling and “trail ghosting.” Even if a recent rainstorm has washed things out, persevere—the trail is there! Here, you’ll collect nature’s own “pinstriping” as twigs and branches leave off-road marks of pride. Note: some shelf roads feature sizable washouts, but there’s ample space for a Jeep Wrangler—just take it slow and steady. Ghost Loop teems with wildlife: you might spot coyotes, bobcats, deer, javelina, rabbits, raccoons, and maybe even a mountain lion or bear if you’re lucky! The surrounding forest offers a beautiful, ever-changing canvas of oak and juniper, manzanita, creosote bush, cottonwood in moister spots, prickly pear cactus, and seasonal wildflowers. No permits or fees are required—just your sense of adventure! The trail is open all year, but mountain weather can change on a dime. Afternoon storms sometimes roll through, and rain can transform washes into genuine off-road obstacles. Always keep an eye on the weather and be ready for anything Prescott National Forest has in store.
