North Puerto Blanco Drive
A dirt road west of the visitor center that passes through cactus forest and colorful hills, leading to historic ranches and trailheads.
The North Puerto Blanco Drive runs north and west from the visitor center, passing cactus forest, colorful volcanic hills, and trailheads such as Pedregosa. It sees far less traffic than the Ajo Mountain Loop and feels even more remote. The first 8 km or so are passable in a regular car, but reaching historic sites such as Bates Well Ranch requires a high-clearance vehicle. Road access changes from time to time, so check with the visitor center before you set out and let someone know your plans.
Opening hours
Daytime (per NPS announcements)
Nearby sights
- Victoria Mine Trail
- Twin Peaks Campground & Desert View Trail
- Kris Eggle Visitor Center
- Quitobaquito Springs
- Ajo Mountain Drive
- Estes Canyon & Bull Pasture Trail
- Arch Canyon Trail
- New Cornelia Mine Lookout