Beyond The Pavement-Tule Homestead

Getting out Beyond The Pavement is one of things we like to do, and whenever the opportunity arises that we can, we go. Of course, you can get beyond the pavement solo, but unless you’re really comfortable exploring alone, have the experience to do so safely, AND are able to self-rescue then you might want to travel with others, which is ALWAYS a good idea. Traveling with a group is one reason we are involved in a local outdoors/off-road club – it gives us the ability to explore with the safety of others.

Beyond The Pavement-Outdoor Club Run

Its has been an unseasonable winter this year here in Arizona. The record rain and snow accumulations, colder than normal temps has put a damper on many of our outdoor activities. But when a scheduled ride aligns with good weather, watch out…FUN happens! The video below was taken January 27, 2023 on a trip we took to visit two historical sites northeast of Wickenburg, AZ, Bradshaw’s Grave and Copperopolis Mine. It was a mix of roads, trails and washes with some rather rugged stretches with some spectacular scenery.

Some snapshots from the trip.

Beyond The Pavement: Jeep Copper Canyon (Part of The Great Western Trail)

Looking for a fun Arizona Jeep trail to explore? Copper Canyon Trail is 8 miles long and parallels I-17, with interesting views and challenging terrain as you descend into the canyon.

We were looking for a place to trail ride with friends in the area, this trail came up along with the one for Squaw Peak on Trails Offroad. Given the length of the two, we decided to combine the two into a day ride. 

Beyond The Pavement: 360° Views of AZ from Squaw Peak

Looking for an amazing view? Look no further than Squaw Peak.

For RV Travelers Who Explore by Jeep or OHV:

Sitting along the mountain range on the south side of Verde Valley just above Camp Verde, Arizona is Squaw Peak. This peak was selected as a location for a plethora of telecommunications antennas due to its elevation and line of sight to other peaks used for similar purposes. Not only do you get an incredible view, but your phone signal will be insanely strong.

The views are commanding with a full 360-degree view of Arizona including Prescott, Prescott Valley and down the I-17 corridor towards Phoenix, picturesque mountains around Sedona as well as the snow-covered tops of the San Francisco Mountains near Flagstaff. So, whether you’re looking to get out and explore for fun or just want an incredible view, Squaw Peak is the place for you!

Purple Pansy & Black Rock – Abandoned Arizona Mines

Beyond the Pavement – 4 Wheeling Arizona

A short distance south of Aguila, Arizona along Eagle Eye Road, we arrived at the trailhead for visiting two abandoned Arizona mines. We were with a contingent of off-roading enthusiasts, like ourselves. We were the only Jeep; the rest were side-by-sides but we’re all members of the North Ranch Outdoors Club, from the RV park where we winter.

We always look forward to any trips with the group that are suitable for our Jeep Wrangler. This particular run to the Purple Pansy and Black Rock Mines was just such a ride. Sadly, it would be our last ride with the group this season. But for good reason … soon we’ll be starting our migration back north … if the weather across the plains and the upper mid-west cooperates. Otherwise, we’ll have to hold up somewhere along the way.

Our first stop will be in Cottonwood, Arizona to meet up with friends and spend a few days riding trails in the surrounding area including Sedona. More on those treks will come later, for now let’s focus on the two abandoned Arizona mines we visited.