Harquahala Mountains Trail
Forgotten Sonoran Desert peak with mining history
Harquahala Peak Road winds through the remote Harquahala Mountains to reach the summit at 5,681 feet, the highest point in southwestern Arizona. This forgotten range holds remnants of early 20th-century mining operations, including the ruins of the Bonanza Mine and scattered equipment along the lower reaches. The trail becomes increasingly rough as it climbs through diverse Sonoran Desert vegetation zones, from saguaro forests to oak woodlands, ending at a fire tower with panoramic views across the Sonoran Desert to Phoenix and beyond.
The route requires high-clearance 4WD for the upper sections where loose rock and steep grades challenge traction. Best driven October through April when temperatures are manageable; summer heat makes this trail dangerous. No permits needed, but bring extra water, food, and emergency gear as this area sees few visitors and cell service is nonexistent. The trail offers solitude and mining history exploration in one of Arizona’s most overlooked mountain ranges.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Backcountry |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | High Altitude, Historic, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 18 mi / 29 km |
| Duration | Full day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 5681 ft |
| Best season | October-April |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Salome, Arizona |
| Land manager | Bureau of Land Management |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Official sources | blm.gov |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Tacoma or 4Runner handle the Harquahala Mountains Trail?
A stock high-clearance 4WD like a Tacoma or 4Runner can handle it, but low-range is essential for the steep, rocky climb toward the summit. Lifted rigs will have an easier time — the loose desert rock gets aggressive in sections. Anything less than high-clearance 4WD shouldn't attempt it.
Is the Harquahala Mountains Trail driveable in summer?
Technically passable, but summer temps in the Sonoran Desert regularly exceed 110°F in the valleys below — it's genuinely dangerous. Stick to the October–April window; the trail is at its best in winter and early spring when temperatures are manageable and the desert is alive.
Do you need a permit to run this trail?
No permit required — it's BLM land and open to the public. No fees, no registration. Standard BLM rules apply: pack out what you pack in, no off-route driving.
What's the hardest section of the trail and what should I expect?
The push toward the upper mountain is the crux — loose rock, steep grades, and narrow shelf road sections with limited room to maneuver. It's not technical enough to require a spotter, but it demands focused driving. Aired-down tires (around 20 psi) will make a noticeable difference on the loose surface.
Is there water or cell service on the Harquahala Mountains Trail?
Zero cell service for the entire 18 miles — plan accordingly and let someone know your itinerary. There's no reliable water source on trail, so carry everything you need; in desert heat that means more than you think. Salome is your last stop for fuel and supplies before heading out.
Trail track
No GPX track for this trail yet. If you've driven it and have a track, contribute below.
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