Montezuma Rimrock Road

This forgotten mining road winds through the eastern Superstition Mountains, following ancient Apache trails between seasonal water sources and hidden camps. The route threads between towering saguaros and through narrow desert washes, passing abandoned prospect holes and stone ruins from both Native American and early mining periods. Goldfield Ghost Town marks the southern terminus, while the northern section dead-ends at spectacular rim views over the Salt River Valley.

Difficult terrain requires experienced drivers and modified 4WDs with rock sliders and underbody protection. Sharp embedded rocks and tight canyon sections demand careful tire pressure management and spotting. Summer is brutal—stick to winter and spring months. No permits needed, but respect private mining claims. Water is non-existent, and cell service disappears quickly. This 18-mile technical challenge rewards hardcore desert runners with solitude and some of Arizona’s most pristine Sonoran Desert.