Shoebuckle Road 1059

Trail Overview

This mostly easy trail runs right through the heart of the upper plains. At the north end, it begins near the Post Office Tank, and to the south is the Engelstead Tank. The trail passes through dense juniper forests, grassy fields, and dense sagebrush areas between long, smooth sections. Even though the route is easy, some significant washouts may worsen and deepen with every storm. There's also a nice rocky hill climb on the southern side of the "one-way pass." Please keep your eyes peeled as this is an open range for cattle, and they seem to enjoy spending their time right in the middle of the road in a blind corner. As you progress along the trail, you'll also see jackrabbits darting to and fro. The meadows in this desolate and peaceful area are very pleasant to ride through. This area is very remote, and help is a long way away. Be sure to bring a satellite communication device and be sure somebody knows your travel plans. There is no cell service out here, so plan and download your offline maps and bring plenty of water. It is a desert, after all.

Photos of Shoebuckle Road 1059

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Difficulty

This trail is generally easy and in good shape. It's mostly two-track with the occasional deep off-camber washout and a rocky hill climb.

History

The Arizona Strip is a vast arid region on the north side of the Grand Canyon that encompasses a variety of landscapes and climates within its nearly 3 million acres, as well as centuries of human history. It is 200 miles long and accessed only by two major highways on either end. Because of its lack of easy access, the Strip remains one of the most remote and least-visited parts of the state.

Technical Rating