Forest Service Road 35
Arizona's rim country escape route.
Forest Service Road 35 traces 42 miles of Arizona’s Mogollon Rim from Camp Verde to Forest Lakes, climbing from desert scrub at 3,000 feet to cool ponderosa pine forests above 7,000 feet. This well-maintained dirt road follows the dramatic escarpment that separates the Colorado Plateau from the Sonoran Desert, offering sweeping views across the Verde Valley to distant mountain ranges. The route passes through diverse ecosystems and provides access to numerous hiking trails, fishing spots, and dispersed camping areas in the Coconino National Forest.
Any high-clearance vehicle can handle this moderate graded road, though 4WD helps in winter when snow can close sections above 6,000 feet. Spring through fall offers the best conditions, with summer providing escape from Phoenix heat. The road connects to dozens of side trails and camping spots, making it perfect for multi-day exploration. Fuel up in Camp Verde or Payson—services are limited along the rim, but the solitude and scenery make this one of Arizona’s most rewarding high-country drives.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Scenic Drive |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | Camping, High Altitude, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 42 mi / 67.6 km |
| Duration | Full day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 7200 ft |
| Best season | April-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance recommended |
| Nearest town | Camp Verde, Arizona |
| Land manager | Coconino National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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