Recreation Site
Black Hills Back Country Byway
A rugged 21-mile backcountry drive to Clifton
A rugged 21-mile unpaved stretch of roadway between Safford and Clifton, accessed via US-191 (the route passes over the historic Old Safford Bridge along the way). Best tackled in a high-clearance vehicle. Offers hiking, mountain biking, and rockhounding among historic mining remnants, with elevated vistas and access to the Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area. Distinct from Black Hills Rockhound Area, a separate BLM site in the same general area.
Good to know
What is the Black Hills Back Country Byway?
The Black Hills Back Country Byway is a rugged 21-mile stretch of unpaved roadway located between Safford and Clifton. Accessible via US-191, with the route passing over the historic Old Safford Bridge, it offers excellent opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and rockhounding among historic mining remnants.
Is the Black Hills Back Country Byway paved?
No. The Black Hills Back Country Byway is a rugged, 21-mile unpaved stretch between Safford and Clifton. Accessible via US-191, passing over the historic Old Safford Bridge along the way, it’s best tackled in a high-clearance vehicle. The route offers incredible elevated vistas, historic mining remnants, and direct access to the Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area.