Bloody Basin Road
The origin of the Bloody Basin Trail's name is unclear. The area is known for the Arizona plume agate soil with unique red, orange and yellow colors. The story behind the name ‘Bloody Basin’ however, is up for debate. Some say that during disputes between sheep ranchers and cattlemen, many sheep were killed along the trail. Others claim the name refers to the Battle of Turret Peak. A historical event that took place in 1873, when U.S. Army scouts followed a group of Yavapai and Tonto Apache to Turret Peak. The soldiers launched a surprise attack at dawn, killing dozens of Apaches. The conflict can be linked to western settlers' campaign during the expansion era to forcibly relocate Native American tribes to reservations.
The trail’s embattled history and archeological significance is why I wanted to explore it. I had seen the exit sign many times and was curious where the road went. When the time came, I took a satellite communicator, a tire repair kit, and some extra fuel bottles to see what this isolated road had in store. The road starts near the Arizona Veteran's Highway, a busy interstate connecting Phoenix to Flagstaff with over a mile of elevation gain. About a third of the way up, there is a simple exit sign for Bloody Basin Road.
The road passes through the Aqua Fria National Monument soon after exiting the highway. This federally protected area contains one of the most important groups of prehistoric sites in the American Southwest. A short hike from the trail leads to stone masonry pueblos and rare petroglyphs at the ancient site of Pueblo La Plata, where ruins from around 1200 AD can still be found. After a couple of miles, the path turns from a well maintained dirt road to a moderately challenging trail as it enters the Tonto National Forest. You’ll experience views of table top mesas, desert grasslands and rare wildlife. Be careful of coyotes, bobcats, antelope, mule deer, javelina, and roaming cattle on the path of travel.
From here the road is remote and enjoyable to ride with winding cliffside trails and stunning views of high desert landscapes. Soon enough you’ll reach a story board sign commemorating the ‘Great Western’ trail at the junction of Bloody Basin Road and Forest Road 24, The ‘Great Western’ trail is a transcontinental route made up of backcountry roads that runs from Canada to Mexico through five western U.S. states. Bloody Basin Road is part of the ‘Great Western’ trail in Arizona.
This is a decision point on the route. Continue east 12 miles where the terrain gets far more technical as it weaves through washes and climbs up heavy rock hills before descending down to the Verde River Sheep Bridge. The historic bridge serves as a gateway to the west side of the Mazatzal Wilderness. Beware, this portion of the trail should only be attempted by experienced adventure motorcycle riders. If your skills are not up to the challenge, stay on the designated easy/intermediate route by turning south on Forest Road 24 instead.
Forest Road 24 leads to Carefree. I love riding this part of the trail, especially on a quiet day when I have the open space completely to myself. The landscape changes frequently as you pass through tree covered paths, trailside creeks, and cattle ranch property. Expect no cell service as you leave Yavapai county and enter Maricopa county. Eventually the trail leads to Seven Springs, a popular federal recreation area sought out by birders, campers and hikers alike.
From Seven Springs, the dirt road turns into pavement leading to the towns of Carefree and Cave Creek. Use Carefree Highway to return to the Interstate and complete the loop north to Aqua Fria National Monument. The Bloody Basin route can be taken in either direction climbing to higher elevations on quiet paths with excellent views. At 72 miles, point to point (approximately 120 miles if ridden as a loop), it is suitable for beginners, with options for intermediate and advanced riders. Plan on 5-6 hours to complete this route. To obtain elevation profiles, GPS coordinates, and more points of interest for this route and many others you can purchase a “Best Dirt Roads in Arizona - Arizona Adventure Series Map” from Butler Maps. Use the code “losthighways” to get a discount and support our website and the Adventure Rider Community. I had an incredible time riding this motorcycle route and I would definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys a bit of solitude and adventure.
Photo courtesy of birderfrommaricopa.com
Disclaimer: Each rider is responsible for checking the current road conditions and assessing their own skills to ensure safety. All routes are provided "as is" without any liability.
