Harquahala Mountain Back Country Byway

The Harquahala Mountain Backcountry Byway offers something for everyone! The road itself is rugged and challenging for off-highway vehicle (OHV) enthusiasts. High-clearance vehicles and four-wheel drive vehicles are required.

The summit is the highest point in southwest Arizona with breathtaking 360-degree vistas. For hikers, a pack trail leads from the summit down the mountain through the Harquahala Wilderness Area designated in the Arizona Desert Wilderness Act of 1990. The trail has several difficult and steep portions.

For the nature lover, it has beautiful Sonoran Desert scenery with blooming flora March through May and distinct ecosystem variations can be seen with changes in elevation. In addition to the typical desert reptiles and critters, bighorn sheep may also be spotted.

For the history buff, the drive displays old mining debris, shafts and stone houses from earlier miners. The grand finale is realized at the summit with the Harquahala Peak Observatory. The observatory was built by the Smithsonian in 1920 to measure and record solar activity. It was abandoned in 1925 and in 1975 was listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has since been stabilized.

Hours and Seasons

Trail can be used year-round; however, it is recommended for use from November through April. At other times of the year, the trail is seldom used due to high temperatures.

Summer temperatures may often reach 115 degrees. Wear a hat, long sleeve shirt, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Drink plenty of water!

Features and Services

• Access and Parking: The parking area consists of hard-packed ground with non-striped spaces. Although none of the spaces are designated as accessible, the entire parking area should be suitable for people with mobility devices.
• Drinking Water: There is no drinking water available. Bring plenty of water.
• Toilets: Accessible vault toilet onsite.
• Cell Phone and Internet: Cell phone service may be unreliable. There is no public internet or Wi-Fi.
• Pets: Service dogs are legally permitted anywhere that visitors can go. Pack out all waste.

Safety and Conditions

You are responsible for your own safety. Call 911 to contact local law enforcement, obtain emergency services, or report a fire.

While enjoying your visit, keep in mind that there is no first aid available on-site.

Expect potential hazards such as venomous snakes, extreme heat, and flash floods. Be prepared for changes in weather and stay informed on weather warning alerts. Make sure you have the appropriate gear, food and water.

Respect and Protect

The area is home to many species of wildlife. Please remember to practice outdoor ethics and recreate responsibly. Help us protect this unique environment by leaving no trace during your visit.

Check for fire restrictions before your visit. Using exploding targets, fireworks, sky lanterns, tracer ammunition and other incendiary devices is prohibited on BLM-managed public land in Arizona.

Report crimes to resources including vandalism, dumping and suspicious activity at 1-800-637-9152.