Getting Off-Road in Rim Country
Payson is the gateway to Arizona’s “Rim Country,” offering a tremendous variety of off-roading ranging from smooth forest cruises to intense rock crawling.
Payson is a fantastic base for off-roading—tons of forest roads, rugged trails, and scenic overlooks.
Since it sits at the junction of the Tonto, Coconino, and Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests, you can transition from high-desert cactus to dense ponderosa pines in a single afternoon.
Top OHV Trails Near Payson
Rim Road (FR 300)
Easy
The “granddaddy” of scenic drives. It hugs the edge of the Mogollon Rim for 40+ miles with 2,000-ft drops and epic overlooks. Passable by most SUVs.
Control Road (FR 64)
Easy
A long, graded forest road that runs below the Rim. Great for a relaxed day trip with plenty of dispersed camping and access to hiking.
East Verde River
Moderate
Features multiple water crossings (check levels in spring) and winds through lush riparian areas west of town.
Pyeatt Draw
Hard
A famous wash known for the “Filter,” a series of massive limestone steps. Requires high clearance, lockers, and ideally a spotter.
Rocker Knocker
Hard
Located near the Mazatzal Mountains, this is a technical rock crawling trail with shelf drops and off-camber sections.
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