Harquvar Mountain Traverse

The Harquvar Mountain Traverse cuts across one of western Arizona’s most isolated mountain ranges, following old prospector tracks through granite boulder fields and steep-sided canyons. The route climbs past abandoned mining claims to reach spectacular viewpoints overlooking the Colorado River valley and distant California ranges. The notorious “Devil’s Backbone” section requires careful navigation through house-sized granite boulders, where a wrong turn can mean hours of backtracking through increasingly difficult terrain.

This expert-level route demands serious preparation and experience. Full-size vehicles will struggle with the tight confines and steep climbs—compact 4WDs with rock sliders and underbody protection are strongly preferred. Winter months offer the only reasonable window, as summer temperatures regularly exceed 120°F. No water sources exist, and cell service is nonexistent throughout the range. Carry multiple days of water, extra fuel, and comprehensive recovery gear. The solitude and raw desert beauty make this one of Arizona’s premier backcountry challenges.