Upper Woodpecker to Ajax Mine

Total Miles 16.1
Technical Rating
7 Difficult
Best Time Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
Trail Type High-Clearance 4x4 Trail
Accessible By
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Trail Overview

This trail follows the difficult wash known as Upper Woodpecker. At the eastern end of the wash, the trail climbs up a narrow winding trail to join Ajax Mine Road. The wash is very difficult. Lockers and 33 inch or larger tires are recommended. The trail following the wash is intermediate and does not require lockers but would still be advisable at a few points. If you take the eastbound route to Ajax Mine and beyond, it gets very narrow. Some of the switchbacks and turns may require vehicles to make a three-point turn. The loop takes you to the highest mountain top where you can see Florence and, to the south, all the way to Apache Junction.

Photos of Upper Woodpecker to Ajax Mine

Difficulty

The wash is filled with obstacles with many options of lines and levels of difficulty. The trail itself does dip into the wash at a few spots and ends going through a less difficult part of the wash. The trail is intermediate.

Technical Rating

7

Status Reports

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Tim Ault
May 24, 2026
Open
No obstruction, though there were several washed out areas. My Gladiator on 37s made it through without issue. There were a couple spots that required careful tire placement.
Grant
Apr 20, 2026
Open
The obstructed report is due to this one downhill section that is incredibly washed out. We made it on the bikes just fine but if youre in a sxs or jeep you might not be able to make it because its really slippery with no winch points. This spot if youre running west to east is probably 3/4 of the way in so plenty of trail left to enjoy even if you cant make it. Super fun and scenic when you get to the top of some of those roads you can see from Florence all the way to Apache Junction almost completely unobstructed. Pretty easy trail on bikes
Greg Gill
Jan 23, 2026
Open
Someone stated in November that the trail was obstructed when in fact it’s open if you know this trail, it’s a difficult trail. High clearance and four-wheel-drive absolutely needed.
Zach Davis
Nov 15, 2025
Open
John Furman
Apr 29, 2025
Open

Upper Woodpecker to Ajax Mine Trail can be accessed by the following ride types:

  • Single Track
  • 50 Inch
  • 60 Inch
  • High Clearance

Upper Woodpecker to Ajax Mine Map

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