The road to Workman Creek Falls in Arizona is pure adventure
Usa, north-america
5.14 km
61 m
hard
Year-round
Just a short hop from the 288-Globe Young Highway in Arizona's Gila County, awaits the amazing 200 ft Workman Creek Falls! But heads-up, this ain't your average Sunday drive.
Forest Service Road 487 (AKA Workman Creek Road) stretches just over 3 miles, and it's unpaved the whole way. You'll need a high-clearance vehicle, and forget about it if it's wet. You can usually make it to the Falls in 2WD (weather permitting), but beyond that, things get real. We're talking steep, narrow paths clinging to the side of cliffs – not for the faint of heart! It winds up to Aztec Peak lookout, a whopping 7,746 feet above sea level. The final stretch is a single-track forest road that can be a bit rocky. If the gate's open, you can drive all the way to the top.
Keep in mind, this road above the Falls Recreation Site is usually closed during the winter months (mid-December to end of March) due to snow.
The views, though? Absolutely stunning! You're in the Tonto National Forest, smack-dab in the Sierra Ancha Wilderness, home to diverse wildlife and plants.
Oh, and one more thing: this area has naturally occurring uranium and radium-266, and was mined in the 50's! There are signs posted, but be aware of the potential for low-level radiation. And seriously, DO NOT enter any of the old mines – some have dangerously high radiation levels.
Where is it?
The road to Workman Creek Falls in Arizona is pure adventure is located in Usa (north-america). Coordinates: 40.4093, -97.6251
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 5.14 km
- Max Elevation
- 61 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 40.4093, -97.6251
Related Roads in north-america
easyIs Hwy 40 in Alberta paved?
🇨🇦 Canada
Highway 40 in Alberta? Oh, you HAVE to drive it! This epic road, also called the Bighorn Highway or Kananaskis Trail, stretches for 1,021 km (634 miles) from Coleman, nestled in the southwest Alberta Rockies, all the way up to Grande Prairie in the northwest. Now, here's the thing: it's a mix of paved and gravel, so be prepared for a bit of everything. And keep an eye on road closures – winter weather can shut it down, especially between Peter Lougheed Provincial Park and Hwy 541 (usually closed December 1 to June 14). But trust me, the views are worth it! This road winds through the Canadian Rockies, peaking at a whopping 2,217m (7,273ft). That's the highest highway elevation in the whole country! You'll be cruising near the treeline, where you might even spot some lingering snow in summer. Plus, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife – bears, elk, moose, mountain goats, coyotes... it's a nature lover's paradise! Seriously, if you want a scenic day trip to explore Canada and southern Alberta, this is it. Breathtaking views guaranteed!
hardWhere is Scotch Creek Pass?
🇺🇸 Usa
Alright adventure junkies, let's talk Scotch Creek Pass! Nestled way up high on the border of Dolores and San Juan counties in southwest Colorado's San Juan National Forest, this beauty sits at a whopping 10,570 feet. The road to get there? Forest Road 550, also known as the Old Scotch Creek Toll Road or Pinkerton Trail. Forget smooth sailing – we're talking incredibly rough terrain! This is a real off-road challenge. The climb up from Forest Road 578 is a 4.3-mile grind, gaining 1,315 feet in elevation. That's an average grade of almost 6%, so get ready for a workout for your rig. Heads up: This road is usually snowed in from late October all the way until late June or early July. Summer is your window to tackle this one! The views from the top are incredible, making it all worth the bumpy ride.
moderateWhere is Deadman Pass in California?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, so you wanna hit up Deadman Pass in California? Seriously awesome spot straddling Mono and Madera counties. You're basically right inside the Sierra Nevada Mountains and staring straight into the Ansel Adams Wilderness - views for days! Just a heads up, this isn't your Sunday cruise kinda road. It's unpaved – think dusty and rocky – but most cars *should* be able to handle it. We’re talking about a decent stretch of road, a good climb in elevation, so buckle up. Why "Deadman" though? A little grim: the story goes a body was found nearby back in the day. Spooky! Also, pro tip: this baby's usually closed in winter. Being in the Sierra Nevada's, snow sticks around for a while. Plan your trip for the warmer months, and you're in for a treat.
hardDry Park tower
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! If you're up for a real off-the-beaten-path experience in Arizona's Coconino County, then Dry Park Lookout Tower needs to be on your radar. Perched way up at 8,710 feet in the Kaibab National Forest, the views from up there are simply unreal. Now, getting there? That's part of the fun! The road is gravel and pretty rocky, so definitely leave your low-rider at home. A 4x4 is a must – seriously, don't even think about it without one. It's also closed during the winter due to heavy snow. If you're not a fan of heights or steep climbs, this might not be your jam. Once you make it, check out the fire lookout tower that's been standing tall since 1944!