Difficulty:  4

Distance: 16 Miles

Time: 6 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. At the junction of Ajax Mine Rd and Mineral Mountain Rd, you will drop into Ajax Wash and the obstacles start nearly immediately. One after another, steep rock ledges, off camber rock gardens, and technical tire placement is par for the course. The finale of this trail is a breathtaking terraced mine structure at a perfect place for lunch. Follow the same track home.

This trail requires a substantial lift, center diff lock and at least a rear locker. This trail is not suitable for stock Land Rovers no matter the enthusiasm of the driver.

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