The American Southwest offers some of the most spectacular overlanding terrain in the world. From the red rock deserts of Utah to the pine-covered mountains of Arizona, these trails showcase the best of backcountry travel. Whether you’re looking for a weekend adventure or a multi-week expedition, the Southwest delivers.
This guide covers essential overlanding routes in the Southwest, including difficulty ratings, best seasons, and what makes each trail special.
Utah
White Rim Trail, Canyonlands National Park
A 100-mile loop around the Island in the Sky mesa, the White Rim is a bucket-list overlanding experience. Stunning views of the Colorado River, ancient rock formations, and remote camping.
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate (high clearance recommended)
- Time needed: 2-3 days
- Permit required: Yes – reserve well in advance
- Best season: Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November)
- Highlights: Musselman Arch, Murphy Hogback, sunset camps overlooking the Colorado
Hole in the Rock Road
This 62-mile dirt road leads to the historic Hole in the Rock crossing at Lake Powell. Side trails access some of Utah’s most remote slot canyons.
- Difficulty: Easy (main road) to difficult (side trails)
- Time needed: 1-3 days depending on exploration
- Permit required: No
- Best season: Year-round, avoid summer heat
- Highlights: Zebra Slot Canyon, Devil’s Garden, Dance Hall Rock
Lockhart Basin
Connecting Moab to the Needles District of Canyonlands, Lockhart Basin offers challenging terrain and solitude.
- Difficulty: Moderate to difficult (4WD required)
- Time needed: 1-2 days
- Permit required: No (except for camping in Canyonlands)
- Best season: Spring and Fall
- Highlights: Colorado River overlooks, Indian Creek Canyon access
Arizona
Mojave Road
This historic 140-mile route crosses the Mojave Desert, following old Native American trade routes and military supply roads.
- Difficulty: Moderate (high clearance 4WD required)
- Time needed: 2-4 days
- Permit required: No
- Best season: October-April (desert heat is dangerous in summer)
- Highlights: Kelso Dunes, abandoned mines, desert springs, historic forts
Schnebly Hill Road, Sedona
A scenic 12-mile route climbing from Sedona to I-17, offering iconic red rock views.
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Time needed: Half day
- Permit required: No (Red Rock Pass for parking)
- Best season: Year-round (may close after snow)
- Highlights: Sedona overlooks, red rock formations, Mogollon Rim views
Apache Trail (FR 88)
A partially unpaved historic scenic route east of Phoenix, winding through the Superstition Mountains.
- Difficulty: Easy (unpaved sections may vary)
- Time needed: Full day
- Permit required: No
- Best season: October-May
- Highlights: Canyon Lake, Tortilla Flat, Roosevelt Dam
New Mexico
El Camino Real Backcountry Byway
Following the historic route connecting Mexico City to Santa Fe, this trail offers solitude and history.
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Time needed: 1-2 days
- Permit required: No
- Best season: Year-round
- Highlights: Historic markers, desert landscapes, remote camping
Chain of Craters Backcountry Byway
A 36-mile route through volcanic terrain in El Malpais National Conservation Area.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Time needed: Half day to full day
- Permit required: No
- Best season: Spring and Fall
- Highlights: Volcanic craters, lava flows, unique geology
Quebradas Backcountry Byway
A remote 24-mile route in central New Mexico through colorful badlands.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Time needed: Half day
- Permit required: No
- Best season: Spring and Fall
- Highlights: Colorful rock formations, solitude, photography
Planning Your Southwest Trip
Weather Considerations
- Summer: Dangerously hot in low desert (100°F+) – stick to higher elevations
- Winter: Comfortable in desert, snow possible at elevation
- Monsoon season (July-September): Flash flood risk – never camp in washes
- Spring/Fall: Ideal conditions throughout the region
Essential Preparations
- Water: Carry more than you think you need – 2 gallons per person per day minimum
- Navigation: Download offline maps – cell coverage is limited
- Recovery gear: Sand-specific tools (boards, shovel) essential for desert travel
- Sun protection: Shade structures, sunscreen, wide-brim hats
- Tire repair: Thorns and sharp rocks are common
Dispersed Camping
The Southwest has abundant free camping on BLM and National Forest land. Rules vary by area:
- Generally 14-day stay limits
- Camp at least 200 feet from water sources
- Use existing fire rings where allowed
- Pack out all trash – leave no trace
Best Multi-Day Routes
Utah Grand Circle (7-14 days)
Combine multiple Utah trails for the ultimate overlanding expedition:
- White Rim Trail (2-3 days)
- Lockhart Basin (1-2 days)
- Hole in the Rock Road (2-3 days)
- Notom-Bullfrog Road (1 day)
- Cathedral Valley, Capitol Reef (1-2 days)
Arizona Backcountry Loop (5-7 days)
- Schnebly Hill Road (half day)
- Mogollon Rim roads (1-2 days)
- Apache Trail (1 day)
- Mojave Road (2-3 days)
The American Southwest rewards those willing to venture off the pavement. With proper preparation and respect for the desert environment, you’ll discover landscapes that have drawn adventurers for centuries. Start with easier routes, build your skills, and the Southwest will reveal its secrets one trail at a time.
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