Sunflower Mine Trail

On this trail, take a challenging ride through the Mazatzal Mountains to the Sunflower Mine, an old mercury mine in the middle of the Tonto National Forest. Due to its remote location and lack of an easy access point, not many get the chance to check it out. Along the trail, you’ll cross difficult boulder fields and a bridge before getting to the mine.

PLEASE NOTE: This area has been affected by the 2012 Sunflower Fire. It was closed for a period of time while the road was somewhat repaired and most of the structures removed from the Sunflower Mill Site. The trail is open however is more difficult than it originally was. The loop, which connects you back to the start of the trail is now extremely difficult and should only be attempted with a group of heavily modified vehicles (winches, big tires, shovels, etc.). The trail to the mine and back is also very difficult with numerous sections through boulder-strewn creeks and large washouts. Turn around if you don’t feel comfortable crossing an obstacle. There is a sign along the beginning of the trail posted by Honeywell 4WD Club that says: “VERY DIFFICULT 4WD ROAD. REQUIRES SKILLED AND EXPERIENCED DRIVERS, AND 4WD VEHICLES WITH HIGH CLEARANCE AND LOCKERS”.

How to get there: From central Phoenix, head east on I-10. Take exit 147A and merge onto Arizona-202 Loop. Follow Loop 202 for 13 miles. Take exit 13 (Country Club Dr./AZ-87 N.). Turn left at the light and proceed north on AZ-87. Continue north for an additional 45 miles passing through the town of Sunflower. Just after Sunflower, you’ll see a sign that says “Sycamore Creek/Mt. Ord” – turn left here. Follow Forest Road 626 downhill for 1.2 miles. As the road turns left, take a right over a cattle guard onto the dirt road. There are good staging areas on both sides of the main road as well as near the start of the trail.