Trail Overview
Mesa Connection is an ideal route for scenic explorers and beginners seeking an easy gateway to expansive desert vistas and primitive high-country camping. Stretching approximately 3.2 miles, this unpaved dirt trail serves as the starting or ending segment of a massive 60-mile backcountry adventure, connecting directly to the New River trail system in the Tonto National Forest. Drivers will experience a gradual climb of over 800 feet, rising from an elevation of 3,360 feet up to a peak of 4,160 feet near Magazine Mesa. The road surface is primarily easy-to-navigate dirt, but is characterized by its narrow mountain lanes and lack of services. High-clearance vehicles and standard four-wheel-drive or capable SxSs are recommended due to the potential for rugged, uneven terrain and narrow passages along the shelf road sections.
At the southern trailhead, visitors will find a convenient staging area alongside a couple of established campgrounds, making it an excellent base camp for multi-day excursions. The trail begins with a minor wash crossing that can become impassable during periods of heavy rain; drivers should strictly avoid crossing during flooding situations as wet weather travel is highly discouraged. Official signage along the route warns travelers of the lack of services for the next 60 miles and advises against low-clearance vehicles. Along the ascent, the trail winds past beautiful desert scenery, Maggie May Spring, and Little Lo Spring Canyon, providing ample opportunities to pull off and enjoy dispersed camping. This trail offers a straightforward yet scenic connector that rewards travelers with panoramic views of the surrounding Arizona mountain ranges.
Difficulty
This easy dirt road section is the start/end of a 60 mile trail. It leads to the top of the mesa with beautiful desert views and scattered primitive camping. Connects to the (OnX) New River trail. On the south end there are a couple of established campgrounds, as well as a small staging area. There is a small wash crossing in the beginning - do not cross in flooding situations. Two posted signs: "Not suited for wet weather travel or low clearance vehicles" and "Narrow Mountain Road - No Services next 60 miles".
Access Description
Wet weather travel is not recommended, and low-clearance vehicles should avoid this route. Be prepared for a narrow mountain road with no services for the next 60 miles. Avoid crossing the wash at the beginning of the trail during flooding situations. A staging area and established campgrounds are available at the southern end.
