How to Navigate Arizona’s Backroads Safely (Especially in Monsoon Season)

Arizona backroads can be stunning — and risky. Here's how to explore them safely, especially during monsoon season.

1. What Counts as a Backroad?

Includes:
- Forest Service roads (FRxxx)
- Ranch/dirt access roads
- Unpaved roads in Navajo/Hopi lands
- Old mining roads

Often unsigned, unpaved, and not GPS-friendly.

2. Map Prep Is Critical

Download:
- Google Maps offline areas
- GAIA GPS or OnX Offroad for route data
- Avenza Maps or paper USFS maps

No signal = no help.

3. Avoid During Rain or Monsoon Season

(July–September)

Backroads can:
- Flood fast
- Wash out completely
- Become impassable even in AWD

Don’t cross water — even shallow flow can sweep a car.

4. Always Tell Someone

Before you go:
- Leave a plan with someone
- Include ETA + check-in
- Write contact info inside your car

Many areas have no cell towers and no patrols.

5. Use the Right Vehicle

Avoid:
- Sedans
- 2WD rentals

Use:
- 4WD truck/SUV
- OHV or Jeep
- High-clearance AWD (Subaru, etc.)

6. Pack Essentials

Carry:
- 1+ gallon water per person
- Full-size spare tire
- Jumper cables
- Tire patch kit or inflator
- Flashlight
- Compass + paper map
- Basic food + first-aid

Optional: recovery strap if off-roading

7. Don’t Trust GPS Alone

Apps misroute through:
- Locked gates
- Washed out roads
- Private land

Follow official routes (e.g., FR300) or user-reviewed tracks.

8. Watch for Road Hazards

Expect:
- Cattle crossings
- Cliff edges
- Blind turns
- Dust-reduced visibility

Drive slow, honk on tight turns, and keep lights on.

9. Check for Permits and Closures

Some areas need:
- Tribal permits
- OHV stickers
- Gate codes (call ahead)

Visit USFS or BLM sites for alerts. Check AZDOT for road damage post-storms.

10. Final Tip

Arizona’s backroads reward prepared travelers — not gamblers. If the road looks sketchy, it probably is. Turn around and live to drive another trail.