Prescott to Camp Wood

Chino Valley Ranger District, Prescott National Forest

Both ends of this drive are scenic, but the nature of that scenery — from Prescott’s small-town charm to Camp Wood’s quiet isolation — couldn’t be more different. You’ll need a reliable vehicle and a three-hour block of time, but that’s a small price to pay for views as varied and breathtaking as any you’ll find in Arizona.

Reset your trip odometer at the northwest corner of Courthouse Square in downtown Prescott, a town that served two stints as the Territorial capital in the second half of the 19th century. Today, Prescott is known, in part, for Whiskey Row, its historic area of bars and restaurants. It’s a great place to grab lunch before beginning the drive.

As you head west, you’ll end up on Williamson Valley Road, which winds north past the horse and cattle ranches on the outskirts of town. To the east is Granite Mountain (7,626 feet), and at Mile 9, you’ll pass the Williamson Valley Trailhead, from which several moderate hiking trails can be accessed. Five miles past that, keep an eye out on the right for a glimpse of the San Francisco Peaks, near Flagstaff. You’ll see more of the peaks later, but for now, the road descends into a more forested area.

Open grasslands, small trees and the occasional windmill dominate the view as you continue on. When Williamson Valley Road runs out of pavement, it’s time to turn onto Forest Road 21, a dirt road that climbs into the Prescott National Forest to the west. Early on, a sign warns you to watch for animals. If you’re lucky, you might see a herd of pronghorns, often mistaken for antelopes, grazing near the roadside. The pronghorn is the continent’s fastest land animal, so have your camera ready.

Around Mile 30, the grasslands give way to ponderosa pines as you head deeper into the forest. There are several great views on both sides as you continue on, so take it slow — which you should be doing anyway, because the road gets rougher and narrower as you gain elevation. There isn’t much traffic here, but be ready to pull to the side for oncoming vehicles. Don’t leave without pulling over at Mile 33 to enjoy the idyllic panorama of the small valley below.

The drive concludes at Camp Wood, the site of a cavalry post during the Territorial days. There’s nothing left of the camp but a large clearing, and it’s a good place to stretch your legs and debate your next move. If you’re driving a high-clearance vehicle, you can head north on Forest Road 95 to Walnut Creek, 11 miles away, and make your way to Prescott from there. Otherwise, retrace your route on FR 21 and Williamson Valley Road. If you choose the latter, watch for another incredible view of the San Francisco Peaks shortly after you start the drive back. You’ll know it when you see it.