Coyote Pass

Coyote Pass threads through the heart of the Superstition Mountains east of Phoenix, offering a genuine technical challenge in classic Sonoran Desert terrain. The trail winds through deep sandy washes and over exposed rock ledges, with the notorious ‘Steps’ section providing the crux move — a series of natural rock shelves that demand precise wheel placement and adequate ground clearance. Lost Dutchman State Park serves as the jumping-off point for this adventure into some of Arizona’s most rugged backcountry.

This is expert-level terrain that chews up unprepared vehicles and inexperienced drivers. You’ll need a well-built 4WD with rock sliders, skid plates, and at least 33-inch tires to tackle the technical sections safely. Best attempted October through April when desert temperatures won’t kill you. No permits required, but inform someone of your plans — cell service is nonexistent and recovery is expensive. The reward is solitude in one of Arizona’s most challenging and rewarding desert environments.