The Best Off-Roading Destinations in Arizona

Are you looking for some off-road trails to traverse in The Copper State? Thanks to its wealth of trails and diverse landscapes, Arizona is one of the best states for off-roading. Check out our list of the best off-roading destinations in Arizona for suggestions of where to take your 4×4 for an epic ride!

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Do I need a permit to go off-roading in Arizona?

Yes! But no worries! They are pretty easy to get. Arizona residents and nonresidents can purchase a decal for just 25 dollars. Nonresidents can purchase online or in person at regional AZGFD offices, while residents need to purchase theirs online or in person through the Arizona Department of Transportation’s Motor Vehicle Division.

If ordering online, processing and shipping can usually take around 3 weeks, but you are able to use your receipt as proof of purchase for 30 days after. Just make sure you have it present when going off-roading!

Off-roading Trails in Arizona

Broken Arrow Trail

The number one trail that every off-roader in Arizona must experience is the Broken Arrow Trail. Easily the most popular trail in Sedona and possibly all of Arizona, Broken Arrow is a challenging but beautiful 3.4-mile route.

Traveling through the Coconino National Forest, Broken Arrow is typically rife with traffic—from vehicles to bikers, hikers, and mountain climbers. While it’s popular, Broken Arrow is also one of the most challenging trails thanks to its steep ledges known as The Steps. For experienced drivers, it’s not too tough, and the stunning landscape is well worth the effort.

White Pocket

If you’re looking for an off–road destination that’s less about the challenge of navigating the trails and more about witnessing some stunning landscapes, many people consider White Pocket the best in Arizona. Located in Marble Canyon near Page in northern Arizona, the White Pocket Trail is famous for its gorgeous beautiful red rock patterns and formations that you can only truly appreciate in person.

The trail is relatively easy to navigate, so it’s a popular destination for those new to off-roading—but a 4×4, high-clearance vehicle is still recommended for the 52-mile road to the trailhead. If you’re new to off-roading, make sure you’re familiar with the rules every off-road driver should know.

You may also like: How to Spend One Weekend in Page, AZ

Backway To Crown King

In Lake Pleasant Regional Park are many thrilling off-roading trails that offer magnificent landscapes, but perhaps the most famous is the Backway to Crown King Trail. This trail features an iconic stopover, CK Rock, a rite of passage for many Arizona off-roaders.

The trail is full of deep ruts and large rocks, so even experienced drivers with highly capable off-road vehicles still typically take about eight hours to complete the route. It can be challenging, but it makes for an incredible journey as you travel from desert to mountain to forest land. 

Arizona Peace Trail

No matter where in Arizona you are, you’re likely near the massive Arizona Peace Trail! This huge off-road trail stretches 675 miles and loops through numerous counties and cities in Arizona, so accessing it is easy!

For those who want an endurance challenge, few things can beat taking a weekend or entire week to trek through every inch of this challenging but fun trail filled with some of Arizona’s most beautiful vistas!

I do not have my own OHV…Are there any guided Tours?

Yes! Arizona has a plethora of off-road rentals and guided tours to choose from! It’s a great way to test the waters before making the splurge and buying your own Off-highway Vehicle. Below are some of the most popular!

• Box Canyon Half-Day ATV Tour (Florence, AZ)
• Sonoran Desert 2-hour ATV Tour: (Fort McDowell, AZ)
• Jeep Tour and Winery Tasting (Camp Verde, AZ)
• Vortex Jeep Tour (Sedona, AZ)

It’s no secret that I absolutely love Arizona. From kayaking the beautiful Colorado River to hiking to secret caves to off-roading over some of the most beautiful landscapes, the adventures are truly endless. Which off-roading destination in Arizona are you heading to first?!