Sunflower Mine Loop

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4.9/5 (17 reviews)
Fountain Hills, Arizona (Maricopa County)
Last Updated: 06/02/2023

Trail Information

Highlights

Sunflower Mine Trail combines several trails for a great day in the Arizona desert. The trail works through a lush and rocky canyon leading to Sunflower Mine, also known as the National Mine. It operated from 1913-1965, mainly producing Cinnabar, used in the production of mercury and the extraction of gold. The mine also had smaller amounts of gold and silver before closing for good in 1985. The ruins at the mine used to be much larger than they are now. In 2014 most of the structures were removed, leaving only a tiny portion of the actual operation.

The real draw is the trail itself. It offers welcome shade while you're rock-crawling your way through Sycamore Wash. You get to push yourself and your vehicle with numerous optional obstacles along the way. The shelf roads may be narrow, but they offer incredible views of the surrounding canyons. Pack for an all-day trip because this trail might surprise you!

ATTENTION: The bridge at Waypoint 6 is scheduled for closure or repairs. Use at your own risk.


Trail Difficulty and Assessment

Trail Navigation

Trail Reviews

4.9/5 (17)
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500
Open
Rated 5/5
Visited: 08/05/2023
Difficulty Accuracy: Spot On

This trail has really ‘evolved’ in the 20+ years I’ve ran it. Hard to believe in its current state that I took my ‘88 Grand Wagoneer on 33’s through it back in the day. This trail has become much more of a rock crawling trail over the years and it doesn’t disappoint in that regard. After spending a lot of time wheeling my JT on milder trails, I was itching to get the YJ out since doing the CJ grill and hood conversion and stretch its legs. My trail companion was my buddy Eric in his highly modified TJ on coil overs and we had a great day! Higher elevations kept us out of the triple digits and there is always an abundance of shade. Being the middle of summer, the creek was dry, but the flora and fauna remained healthy and green. Climbing out of the canyon you’ll notice how the manzanita has flourished since the last wild fire and is threatening to take over the trail. Although the trail wasn’t difficult for our level of experience and vehicle modifications, a well set up rig and some technical trail driving experience is recommended. This trail is truly one of the gems in AZ, a state with many great trails!
Trail Review: Sunflower Mine Loop - Josh D
Trail Review: Sunflower Mine Loop - Josh D
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Rated 5/5
Visited: 07/23/2023
Difficulty Accuracy: Spot On

Trail is very overgrown, so expect pinstriping. Lots of medium sized rocks are loose and unavoidable, which makes the trail always changing and challenging. Expect some rock rash on wheels. Great day on the loop. Solid 7 difficulty with every obstacle in the wash, probably a 6 with bypasses. The exit road has a washed out section that's unavoidable and a 25 degree tilt. Didn't see another vehicle.
Trail Review: Sunflower Mine Loop - Jon Reddy
Trail Review: Sunflower Mine Loop - Jon Reddy
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Open
Rated 5/5
Visited: 06/05/2023
Difficulty Accuracy: Harder

If you do as much of the creek you can, I’d say it’s a bit harder than a 7.
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200
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Rated 5/5
Visited: 05/17/2023
Difficulty Accuracy: Harder

Favorite Arizona trail!
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150
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Visited: 12/31/2022
Difficulty Accuracy: Harder

Navigated this trail yesterday with a group of Jeepers in 4 doors on 40’s. It may have been a 5 rating for them but for someone on 35’s and a 2 door it was harder than a 5. Bead locks are a definite plus for a couple of obstacles, wish I had them. Do this trail with a group and you will enjoy it but be prepared for a long day of bouncing and crawling.

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