Arizona Off Road Backway to Crown King and a Rollover Near

Today we're climbing the Backway to Crown King, starting near Lake Pleasant and working our way through China Dam, the Tule Homestead, and deep into the Bradshaw Mountains. Fall brings the best light and the coolest weather to this part of Arizona, and it’s the ideal time to explore these historic mining routes and old wagon corridors that shaped early life here.

The lower desert gives way to granite ridges, tailings piles, and abandoned claims as the road climbs toward Crown King. Most of the trail is moderate, but the upper section tightens into ledges and rock steps—including the Waterfall Obstacle. That’s where I come across a rental Rubicon attempting the final climb. A minor shift in weight changes the line, and the Jeep ends up on its side. Everyone is safe, but the situation changes the rest of the day as we work through recovery options and get them safely off the mountain.

This drive is a full cross-section of central Arizona: desert flats, narrow canyons, cool pine forests, and a trail that keeps you honest. If you enjoy grounded, landscape-focused overland travel and trip documentation, consider liking the video and subscribing for more.

Chapters:
00:00 Intro
01:35 Castle Hot Springs Road
03:55 China Dam
08:20 Tule Homestead
13:33 Climbing Cow Creek Road
15:45 Winding Up The Trail
18:00 Upper Obstacles
20:10 The Waterfall Rollover
29:50 Arrival in Crown King

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