Distance: 16 Miles

Time: 3 Hours

Description:

The trail leaves US 60 and enters a military firing range. A notice board at the junction gives dates of live firing practice. In addition, a red flag is flown from the flagpole at the start of the trail when live firing is in progress. Most of this trail is on state land, and a valid permit is required.

The northern section of the trail is wide and roughly graded as it wanders through prolific Sonoran desert vegetation. After a historic camp and short easy section in Woodpecker Wash, the trail climbs out of and drops back into the river bottom. At the junction of Ajax Mine Rd and Mineral Mountain Rd, the trail turns left and follows Ajax Mine Rd. You cross Ajax Wash several times and may catch a glimpse of the more extreme Rovers crawling the rocks. The finale of this trail is a breathtaking terraced mine structure at a perfect place for lunch. Follow the same track home.

Other trails are longer and worth exploring as there are many old mines in the region. Farther along, the trail rises to five excellent views of Dromedary Peak and Weavers Needle to the north, and of North Butte to the south.

Wells, C. (2001). Guide to Arizona Backroads and 4-Wheel Drive Trails. FunTreks Inc; Monument CO.