Mingus Mountain
Difficulty: Moderate.
Description: After passing through an unimpressive lower section, the road climbs quickly up the side of scenic Mingus Mountain. Great views of Verde Valley and Sedona looking east. An enjoyable forest drive. ATVs are restricted to main Forest Service roads only. Most of the trail is easy except for a few rocky places. Narrow shelf road on east side of Mingus Mountain. Stay off this trail during rainy periods; the last part can get very muddy. Suitable for stock SUVs.
Time & Distance: About 19 miles. Allow 2 to 3 hours.
Trail Conditions: Prescott National Forest, Verde Ranger District. Call (928) 567-4121.
Remember: trail conditions, fire restrictions, weather, and land ownership change constantly so everyone must take responsibility for themselves, both for their safety and complying with all laws. Please understand that means YOU.
Directions to the Trail: Follow Hwy 89A northwest through Cottonwood towards Jerome. Turn left (west) 0.6 miles north of Willard Street onto West Mingus Avenue.
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Get yourself and your rig ready for the trip: Make sure both you and your vehicle are prepared for your next adventure.
Before you venture out on your offroading trip you need to make sure you are prepared for emergencies. Even if nothing happens to you or your vehicle, you might come across someone who needs help. Short of having your full-on bug-out-bag with you, you should at least have some basic emergency items. It might seem obvious to some, but you should get yourself a tool box with appropriate tools and leather gloves, good first aid kit, fire extinguisher, set of jumper cables, emergency blankets (stored in heavy plastic bag – both are useful), flashlight, tow strap and some extra water. I would also suggest a recovery strap, a military folding shovel, heavy duty garbage bags, and a hand crank self powered weather radio. These items are not expensive, but they just might save your day.
Another thing you should definitely do before you leave is to save the number to Arizona 4×4 Off Road Recovery in case you find yourself in need of recovery in the middle of nowhere. Their number is (602) 697-8306.
If you’re ready for a next adventure and want to plan it right, check out some of these trail guides – Arizona has so many awesome destinations to explore!
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