Description
Vulture Mine Expedition – Self-Guided 4×4 Tour Through Arizona’s Historic Gold Country
Get off the pavement and into the wild with the Vulture Mine Expedition—a rugged, self-guided 4×4 adventure that takes you from Morristown, Arizona deep into the heart of the legendary Vulture Mountains. This trail isn’t just for thrill-seekers—it’s a must-do for anyone passionate about Arizona’s gold rush history, ghost towns, and remote desert landscapes.
As you carve your way through washed-out trails, rocky terrain, and tight pinstriping canyons, you’ll face challenging obstacles, steep climbs, and the kind of raw terrain that only the Sonoran Desert can offer. Along the way, explore three massive natural arches, rare crested saguaros, and multiple abandoned gold mines that echo with the stories of Arizona’s past.
At the heart of the route is the historic Vulture Mine, once one of the richest gold deposits in Arizona history. Step back in time and walk through the remnants of this once-thriving boomtown.
Recommended Vehicle Requirements:
- Modified 4×4 vehicle
- Minimum 2-inch lift
- 33-inch tires or larger
- Full-size spare tire (rocky terrain is notorious for sidewall damage)
Safety Tips:
- Travel with a group or experienced off-roaders
- Avoid open mineshafts and respect private property
- Check Hassayampa River conditions before crossing
- Bring extra fuel, water, and recovery gear
To maximize your off-road experience, download the provided GPS tracks and Points of Interest (POIs). These files include waypoints for key attractions, trail forks, campsites, and river crossings—giving you a detailed guide through some of Arizona’s most remote public lands.
