Sand Mill Scenic - Level 3
Sand Mill Scenic is a desert backcountry route in Yavapai County, Arizona, in the foothills country north of Wickenburg. It sits between the Sonoran Desert lowlands and the edge of the Weaver and Date Creek ranges, an area with a long mining past and a lot of open public land.
The route is a good fit for a half day of exploring in a high clearance 4x4, with changing views as it climbs out of the washes and onto the ridges. The area is remote, so go prepared and carry what you need for a self-reliant day.
Trail Summary
- LocationYavapai County, Arizona
- Distance12.6 miles
- DifficultyLevel 3
- Elevation2,486 ft to 3,493 ft with a 1,007 ft change
- Travel Time1 hour 30 minutes
Difficulty
Best suited for a high clearance 4x4
This is a Moderate trail, level 3 on the 10-point scale, best suited to a high clearance 4x4. Expect a stock 4WD vehicle with good ground clearance and off-road tires to handle it. The surface can be uneven and rutted, with loose rock and sandy washes in places. Ledges, drops, short steep grades and other obstacles are generally under 12 inches, and careful tire placement may be needed. Any water crossings should be less than a foot deep, and mud holes are possible after rain. The road is typically one vehicle wide with places to pass. The driver's log did not call out any specific obstacle that needs special attention.
Terrain
The route runs through Sonoran Desert foothills, with dirt and rock two-track, dry washes and rocky climbs. Vegetation is typical for the area, including saguaro, palo verde, ocotillo and catclaw, which can brush the sides of narrow sections. Sandy wash bottoms and loose rock are likely, and the surface can change quickly after summer monsoon storms or winter rain.
Highlights
The route climbs about a thousand feet between wash bottoms and higher ground, so the views open up well on the higher sections. Spring wildflowers and a green desert can make late winter and early spring a good time to go. Old mining claims and prospect workings are common in this part of Yavapai County, so stay on the established route and respect any posted claims. Summer heat is severe, so carry extra water and check the weather before entering washes.
Trail GPS File
Map
The interactive map needs JavaScript. Every waypoint is also listed below.