DESCRIPTION: Lots of varying terrain and views, with a little local history thrown in too. Meet at entrance to Yavapai County Fairgrounds at 8:15 then depart at 8:30. Folks coming from Cottonwood or Sedona should be at Mingus Summit by 8:45. We will proceed on Highway 89A to Mingus Summit, air down there, then continue on 89A to historic FS503A/FS503E. After crossing into the Verde Valley, we will travel CR72 & FS318A to Martin Canyon. Martin Canyon has many cobbles, boulders and a couple of rock outcroppings to go over. The main trail up the canyon criss-crosses a stream-bed many times. Wet & muddy conditions are possible, Arizona pinstriping will definitely occur. After the Smiley Rock obstacle we will double back down Martin Canyon and end the ride in Chino Valley.
TRAIL LEADERS: John Anderson/Lou Knapp.
COMMUNICATIONS: CB radio is REQUIRED, channel 12.
TRAIL RATING: 5 ~ Road surfaces are rutted, rocky and sandy with steps not exceeding 14”, with considerable slickrock surfaces. Water not exceeding 12” with some mud possible. Good vehicle approach and departure angles are helpful. Tall tires (33” minimum) and traction added device (lockers, limited slips) is recommended. Above average driving skills are desirable. Aggressive tires NO STREET TIRES and limited slip would be a plus.
EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS: Every vehicle needs to have permanent vehicle mounted recovery points front & rear, a 2” or wider tow strap with closed loop ends (no open hooks) in safe working condition, D-rings, tools, an appropriate jack & spare tire, and a means to air-down & air-up tires. Aggressive tread tires are required, absolutely NO STREET TIRES! Also required are traction enhancements like a limited slip differential and at least a rear locker, recovery gear, a 3” lift and 33” tires for 2-doors or 35” tires for 4-doors, and a skilled driver familiar with his/her Jeep’s capabilities & limitations. While a winch is not an absolute requirement, be aware that several of us have needed to use one in Martin Canyon.
RSVP ONLY FOR NUMBER OF VEHICLES: If you need to cancel please try to do so as far in advance as possible and change your RSVP to "No" so that another member can fill your slot.
MISC: Limited to 12 Jeeps. Bring chairs, lunch and non-alcoholic drinks. Your guests and friendly, well behaved pets are welcome to come along.
RETURN BY: Mid to late afternoon.
NOTICE: Offroading, like all sports, has inherent risks and dangers. All participants (on behalf of him/her self, his/her children and his/her guests) are responsible for their own safety during The Offroad ~ AZ No Club Club runs. All participants voluntarily accept any and all risks of injury, harm, medical conditions, or property damage, assume all liabilities, and waive any and all damages against The Offroad ~ AZ No Club Club (including its organizers, hosts, and members).