Fun on the Trails!
When not out on the track, the teams at Daystar Products and Proving Grounds Racing take every opportunity to explore the many scenic trails Arizona has to offer. And with the cooler temperatures, sunny skies, and blooming cactus, it is as perfect a time as any to hit the trails. It is a great way to get out and enjoy the outdoors with other off-road enthusiasts and buddies while also maintaining social distancing.
For one recent adventure, John Grounds, PGR 4570 driver and engineering manager at Daystar, took a trip out to Sunflower Mine OHV Trail in the Mazatzal Mountains. Not wanting to miss out on the action, a few friends met up at the trailhead before setting off on the 3-hour ride. Together, they were able to climb some rocks, enjoy a picnic, kick up some dust, and have an action packed day.
Sunflower Mine
The Sunflower Mine trail is a challenging, 20-mile loop. Mostly used for off-road driving, the trail offers scenic views of mountains, creeks, and possible wildlife. About halfway through, one will find an abandoned mercury mine, known as the National Mine. Though much of the original infrastructure was burned down in a fire in 2012, many of the gears, piping, and shafts are still in place, making the difficult trail down extremely worth the trek. Much of the trail is exceedingly narrow, making it tough to navigate around drivers coming from the opposite direction. It is common come across
vehicles that have gotten into some
sticky situations.
“Be fearless in the pursuit of what sets your soul on fire.” These words express our true passion in the off-road sport. But with that combination of adrenaline, drive, and excitement, invites the potential for trouble. WARN has always been the leader of rescue missions. With over 70 years of off-road experience, the new AXON and VRX winches are providing game changing technologies and the
reliability only WARN can offer. Go farther, go prepared, and go knowing
you have the ability to get yourself unstuck if needed with WARN.
Directions to the Trail: From Mesa Arizona, take Highway 87 north to just past mile marker 222. Turn left onto Sycamore Creek Road. Follow this paved road 1.2 miles to the bottom of the hill, then turn right at the cattle guard onto Forest Service Road 25. Go through the gate and find a spot to park on the side of the road. Start your ride here.
Be sure to check out Arizona Backroads & 4-Wheel-Drive Trails from FunTreks for more adventure ideas!
For more information on the trail follow this link!
To learn more about the mine follow this link!
Stay Safe!
Before you venture out on your off-roading trip, you need to make sure you are prepared for emergencies. Even if nothing happens to you or your vehicle, you might come across someone who needs help. It might seem obvious to some, but make sure you have a toolbox with appropriate tools and gloves, first aid kit, fire extinguisher, jumper cables, flashlight, tow strap, and some extra water. Also, never ride alone! You never know when it is you who is going to need to be winched.