Trail Overview
Get ready for a roller coaster ride on the Gold Bullion trail! This 5.6-mile adventure is packed with thrilling ups and downs, perfect for 4x4 enthusiasts seeking a moderately challenging route with a technical rating of 4. The trail is divided into two distinct sections, each offering its own unique experience. Heading north after climbing out of The Narrows wash, the north-south portion of Gold Bullion provides an easy warm-up with a technical level of 3, as most of it follows a sandy wash. But don't get too comfortable! As you transition to the east-west section and head west, the difficulty ramps up to a technical rating of 4. Here, you'll traverse a hillside slope with numerous washes crossing the trail. The trail earns its name as you pass near the historic Gold Bullion mine. Expect short, steep inclines and declines as you cross washes, adding to the excitement. The terrain is a mix of sand and small loose rocks. While there are no major obstacles requiring a spotter, drivers should stay alert, especially when approaching turns at the crest of short, steep hills where driver visibility is limited to the sky. A front camera can be particularly handy in these situations. A 4-wheel-drive vehicle with good approach and departure angles is essential for this trail. Lockers are not required. A stock 4-door Wrangler can handle the route with only minor scraping of the trailer hitch receiver in a few spots. However, longer wheelbase vehicles with less departure angle will experience more significant contact, though the scrapes are mostly in loose rock and sandy areas. Remember that this trail changes each year based on rainfall and the amount of water that floods the washes. The area is teeming with creosote bushes and towering saguaro cacti. You'll also find large patches of Hanging Chain Cholla, often called Jumping Cholla, along the trail and some Palo Verde trees. You might spot Javelina, Desert Bighorn Sheep, Gila Monsters, or Desert Tortoises if you're lucky. Other wildlife includes the small, nocturnal Kit Fox, majestic Golden Eagles, agile Prairie Falcons, and the nocturnal Barn Owls and Great Horned Owls. Enjoy the adventure, and keep your eyes peeled! The Gold Bullion trail takes approximately 1 hour to complete without stops in a Jeep, though side-by-sides can zip through more quickly. Along the way, history buffs can explore remnants of the area's mining past, including exploratory digs and the Gold Bullion mine. This area of Arizona was once a bustling mining district, with significant operations starting around 1916 and continuing intermittently through the 1920s and 1930s, primarily focused on extracting manganese, gold, and copper. Best of all, the trail is entirely on BLM land, so no permits are required, making it an accessible adventure for off-road enthusiasts all year. Just a heads-up: cell service is limited or nonexistent in the area. Whether you're looking for a fun drive or a glimpse into the region's rich mining history, the Gold Bullion trail has something for everyone. Buckle up and enjoy the ride!
