Trail Overview
The Plomosa Mountains offer a rugged and remote off-road experience in western Arizona, especially when traveling south to north through the main ridgeline. This route is a one-lane, rocky, and consistently bumpy trail that winds through a dramatic desert landscape filled with old mining sites, steep wash crossings, and numerous intersecting trails to explore. Expect frequent wash crossings, some with steep drop-ins and loose exits that require good clearance and careful throttle. One notable crossing near the northern section puts this trail at a Level 5, presenting a potentially challenging climb out with large embedded rocks, erosion, and a narrow exit--line choice is critical. That crossing may become impassable after rain due to deep sand or water pockets. Along the way, you'll pass through historic mining areas, scattered prospecting ruins, and scenic desert vistas dotted with saguaro and ocotillo. Trail intersections are common, so having offline maps downloaded is essential, as there is little to no cell service in the area. Trail Features:Direction: South to North recommendedTerrain: Rocky, loose, and wash-cut with sand sections interspersed. Crossings: Frequent, steep, with one very challenging exit. Obstacles: Embedded rocks, ledges, erosion. Scenery: Desert mountain views, mining ruins, wide open spaces. Camping: Dispersed camping is possible, especially on the southern approaches. Navigation: Complex--many trail splits, limited signage. Cell Service: Generally nonexistent. This is a remote, technical backcountry route best suited for experienced off-roaders with 4x4, high clearance, and solid navigation tools. The Plomosa Mountains reward with solitude, raw terrain, and a sense of desert exploration few other places in Arizona can match.
Difficulty
This is an unmaintained trail with varying terrain, including but not limited to dirt, ruts, rocky sections, wash crossings with steep entrances and exits, off-camber features, and sandy sections. High clearance with 4WD is recommended. There is no cell service in the area, so offline maps are essential.
History
The Plomosa Mountains are a mountain range in La Paz County, Arizona, running generally south of Bouse, Arizona, near the Arizona/California border. Quartzsite lies to the west across the La Posa Plain. The Harquahala Mountains and Little Harquahala Mountains lie to the east across the Ranegras Plain. The New Water Mountains lie to the southeast beyond Black Mesa. Interstate 10 crosses the center of the range. The Plomosa ghost town and mining camp lie on the southwest side of the range. Evidence of both thrust faulting and strike-slip faulting is present in the Plomosa Mountains.
