Last updated: January 11, 2024
Thing to Do
Hike the Historic Old County Road!
NPS Photo/Cate Blanch
Enjoy scenic views as you explore an old wagon road through the Sonoran Desert! The Old Country Road Trail (also known as Old Sonoyta Trail) stretches 8 miles in between Alamo Canyon Road and Ajo Mountain Drive. This old trail used to stretch from Ajo area to the town of Sonoyta in Mexico. The majority of this road eventually became what is now Arizona Highway 85, but this peaceful section of the historic road remains for visitors to enjoy! The trail meanders along the eastern side of the monument, with wonderful views of Tillotson Peak and the Mt. Ajo. A cristate saguaro cactus may be seen along the trail, 1 mile from the southern trailhead on Ajo Mountain Drive.
This trail is 8 miles one way and makes a great day hike; having two cars stationed at both ends of the road is recommended. The trail is relatively flat but crosses several washes. It’s both a great trail for hiking and running, and is wonderful if wanting some precious alone time in the wilderness.
Distance: 8 miles (12.8 km) one way
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation change: <100 feet (30.5 m)
Details
Duration
3-5 Hours
Time is to hike the trail one way, not round trip.
Activity
Hiking
Pets Allowed
No
Activity Fee
Yes
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Location
Old Country Road
The Old Country Road Trailheads are located on Alamo Canyon Road and Ajo Mountain Drive. The Northern trailhead begins just past the Fee Area signage at the beginning of the road. The Southern trailhead begins just before Ajo Mountain Drive turns into a one-way road.
Reservations
Yes
Season
Year Round
Time of Day
Any Time
Accessibility Information
The trail is a relatively flat dirt and gravel trail that dips across several rocky washes. Vegetation growth may make the trail narrow in some areas.