Mogollon Rim Backcountry
Mogollon Rim Backcountry is a moderate 80+ miles off-road trail near Payson, AZ, best run May - October. The gear list marks All-terrain tires as required, and 4WD capability as recommended. A stock high-clearance 4x4 can run it; check the gear list before you go.
Trail Conditions
No reports yet
Arizona's best-kept secret is a 200-mile-long, 2,000-foot escarpment cutting across the state, with cool pine forests on top and scorching desert below. Forest roads along the rim offer sweeping views, wildflower-filled meadows, and a complete escape from the Arizona heat.
Fun Facts
The Mogollon Rim extends 200 miles across Arizona, dropping 2,000 feet from pine forest to desert.
Zane Grey wrote many of his Western novels from a cabin on the Rim.
The Rim country has one of the densest elk populations in North America.
🛞 Tires
⚙️ Drivetrain
Closest campgrounds to Mogollon Rim Backcountry:
- Ponderosa Campground · 2 mi (straight-line)
- Christopher Creek Campground · 3 mi (straight-line)
- Fr 9350 Campground · 6 mi (straight-line)
- Promontory Pit Road Campground · 7 mi (straight-line)
- Fr 195 Campground · 7 mi (straight-line)
- Crook Campground · 8 mi (straight-line)
Straight-line distance. Check the map for drive time.
GPS Coordinates
Import into Gaia GPS, OnX Offroad, or Garmin
Map of Payson, AZ
5-Day Forecast
Nearby Trails
WHAT YOU'LL NEED
A mild lift, all-terrain tires, and correct gear ratio will get you through this trail confidently.
Tire Size Calculator
Convert tire sizes and compare diameter differences before you swap.
Size up correctly, 33s vs 35s matters on moderate terrain.
Gear Ratio Calculator
Find the right gear ratio after lifting or upsizing tires.
Re-gear after a tire upgrade to restore trail torque and MPG.
Wheel Fitment Calculator
Calculate backspacing and offset so wider wheels clear your suspension.
Extra wheel width = extra clearance on tight lines. Check offset before buying.
MPG Calculator
Estimate fuel economy after a tire upgrade, important for remote runs.
Bigger tires cut MPG. Plan your fuel stops for this trail.