Box Canyon Trail: Arizona's Steep-Walled Drive
The Box Canyon Trail is a unique and scenic drive through a narrow, steep-walled canyon located in Pinal County, in the U.S. state of Arizona. It is one of Arizona’s most popular 4-wheeling areas.
Where is the Box Canyon Trail located?
The trail is situated in the central part of Arizona, within Pinal County.
What is the road surface and length of the Box Canyon Trail like?
The road is totally unpaved and is 16 miles (25.74 km) long. The route is generally easy to follow, but it features very washboard sections with deep dust in places.
What kind of vehicle is required to drive the Box Canyon Trail?
A 4x4 vehicle is required. While this is not an extreme 4WD trail, good ground clearance is necessary. Stock SUVs with good ground clearance should generally be okay, though drivers may bottom out occasionally. There are several moderate-size rocks to get over, and certain sections may be steep enough to cause traction problems.
What makes the Box Canyon Trail dangerous?
Road conditions are always changing. The trail is subject to flooding and standing water after rains, and thunderstorm activity can quickly change unpaved roads to impassable conditions. This canyon is extremely dangerous when flooded because the walls are too steep to climb out. Drivers may also encounter very narrow shelf roads with steep drop-offs and tight clearance between rocks or trees.
What essential advice should drivers follow on the Box Canyon Trail?
Drivers must go slow on motorized vehicles due to the presence of many blind corners. You should stay off this trail if rain is expected. Given the constant change in road conditions, drivers must be aware that a road that is "smooth and easy to drive" one day can be full of washboards the next.
Pic: Kerry Lawson