Trail Overview
Ritter Road (Newman Park) is an easy and scenic 7.8-mile forest route tailored for offroaders seeking a relaxed drive through the majestic Ponderosa pines of the Coconino National Forest west of Munds Park, Arizona. Starting near Willard Springs, this graded dirt road winds past Ritter Mountain and Smith Butte, offering expansive views and a gentle elevation change ranging between 6,600 and 6,933 feet. The trail serves as a perfect introductory run for beginners and high-clearance 2WD vehicles, while providing seasoned drivers with a peaceful connection between more challenging 4x4 networks in the area. Offroaders will find numerous excellent dispersed camping spots tucked among the pines, making it a popular basecamp option for multi-day excursions.
The trail surface is primarily graded dirt with some minor washboard sections, though conditions can quickly turn muddy and slick after heavy rain or snowmelt, increasing the overall difficulty. The route runs north-south, and drivers can easily access either end from Interstate 17 via the Willard Springs Road exit to the south or the Newman Park Road exit to the north. While navigating this gentle terrain, visitors can enjoy spotting local wildlife and exploring adjacent forest service roads. As this route traverses pristine public lands, following Tread Lightly! principles and respecting seasonal closures during winter months ensures that Ritter Road remains open and beautiful for future offroaders.
Access Description
This route is managed by the U.S. Forest Service within the Coconino National Forest. No permits or fees are required to access the road, but winter snow and muddy conditions can lead to seasonal closures or make the road impassable.
