Discover the 8 Most Remote Spots in Arizona and How to Safely Get There

Large swaths of Arizona are remote landscapes. There are endless adventures to be had amongst the mountains and deserts. But what if you wanted to really get away from it all? Try heading out to one of the most remote locations in the state. We have gathered a list of the eight most remote spots in Arizona. 

Are you ready to find your next trip? Let’s dive in.

1. Monument Valley 

Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park is part of the Navajo Nation and well worth the trip to get there. As you enter the park, you will get transported back in time. Visitors are welcome to take a scenic drive on the 17-mile loop. That trip offers phenomenal and breathtaking vistas that you will never forget. However, to get anywhere else in the park, you do need to respect tribal law and join a designated tour group.

Why You Should Go

Imagine soaring sandstone carved by the elements, some of which reach up to 1,000 feet high. The expansive desert offers views that stretch for miles. And the sunrises and sunsets will take your breath away. You can also discover authentic Navajo jewelry and other hand-crafted items from vendors stretched out along the loop road. 

Getting There

Monument Valley sits right on the northern edge of Arizona and the southern edge of Utah. Visitors can enter the park from either state. 

From Arizona, you can head north out of Flagstaff on US-89 until reaching US-160. Turn east and stay on that road until reaching Kayenta. There, you will turn north on US-163 and briefly duck into Utah to catch Monument Valley Road. 

Before making the trek, check for any holiday or weather-related closures. As long as the park is open, feel free to head over. 

2. Navajo National Monument

While you are up in northern Arizona, consider carving out some time to visit Navajo National Monument. This treasure is also part of the Navajo Nation and is an absolute must-see. Its cliff dwellings were home to several tribes over the centuries. You will experience some jaw-dropping sites at one of the most remote spots in Arizona.

Why You Should Go

Multiple tribes built their homes high above the canyon floors, and many of those dwellings remain standing today. Visitors have a chance to walk in reverence where thousands of people lived previously. There are ranger-led hikes, or you can venture out on your own. 

Getting There

Hop on US-160 east until you reach AZ Highway 564. From there, turn north and drive for roughly nine miles. The road dead-ends at the visitor center.

3. Crown King Saloon

Experience what life was like for one of the larger historic mining communities in Arizona. Crown King Saloon dates back to roughly the 1890s, though an exact opening date is unknown. While the town now has a fraction of the residents it did during its heyday, it is worth the trip!

Why You Should Go

The Crown King Saloon is one of the oldest saloons in the state and has a spicy history. At one point during its history, it served as the community brothel and local saloon. While it is no longer a functioning brothel, it now boasts delicious food. 

Getting There

From Phoenix, head north on I-17 for a little over 40 miles. Take exit 248 toward Bumble Bee and Crown King. Head west on Bumble Bee Road for nearly thirty miles, and finally, take Forest 259A/Main Street to your stop! This route is a beautiful mountain drive, so plan on some slow going at times.

4. Kearny

On the other side of the enormous state, visitors can find Kearny. This small town is named after US General Stephen Watts Kearny. Spending time here will make you feel transported back in time. It also has some spectacular scenery to enjoy. So, head out to one of the more remote spots in Arizona for a serious adventure.

Why You Should Go

Kearny is in a remote location but offers some amazing historical sights. Not far from this small town are two must-see spots. First is the Riverside Stage Station. This spot on the stagecoach route once held Apache warriors, including the Apache Kid.

The second stop is Goldfield Ghost Town. A jaunt through this abandoned town will make you feel like you stepped back into the Old West.

Getting There

You can reach Kearny from either Phoenix or Tucson.

From Phoenix, take US-60 east to Superior. Head south on 177, and you will run directly into Kearny.

From Tucson, head north on 77, staying east at Oracle Junction. The road will curve north for a time. Then, in Winkelman, turn west on 177, and you will reach Kearny soon.

5. Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness

The Bureau of Land Management closely manages this wilderness gem. They restrict the number of daily visitors to keep the area as pristine as possible. So, anyone hoping for some alone time will need to make reservations.

Why You Should Go

The best reason to visit Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness is to get away from it all! With so few hikers and backpackers spending time in this untouched getaway, you can truly enjoy some peace.

Getting There

There is no direct route to the wilderness area from Tucson, so you will need to take the long way around. Head east on I-10 through Benson until you reach Willcox. From there, turn west on Fort Grant Road. It will twist and turn for 18 miles. You’ll turn onto West Ash Creek Road for a few miles before rejoining Fort Grant Road for another nine miles. Then, you will take Bonita Aravaipa Road northwest for nearly 40 miles. Depending on your ultimate destination, you may head even deeper into the wilderness or hop out at the trailhead. 

6. Vermilion Cliffs National Monument

Enjoy stunning red vistas during a visit to Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. There are over 280,000 acres of beautiful views, amazing hiking trails, and geologic wonders. Not only is it one of the most remote spots in Arizona, but it is also one of the most spectacular places you’ll ever visit.

Why You Should Go

Vermilion Cliffs National Monument offers the chance to get lost in pristine wilderness. The trails are unmatched, and there are plenty of backpacking spots. Plus, this is a nesting spot for the California Condor. So you may get a glimpse of this magnificent animal.

Getting There

Take US-89 north out of Flagstaff until reaching Bitter Springs. Then, take US-89A to the monument. 

7. Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area

Many people don’t realize that Arizona has spectacular riparian areas. One of these is the Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area, that gets managed by the Bureau of Land Management. It’s 23,000 acres of diversity. 

Why You Should Go

This location is tucked away without heavy foot traffic. It has a delightful blend of history (cliff dwellings, a homestead cabin, and petroglyphs) and nature (over 100 species of birds). 

There is plenty of water to float in or picnic by, countless hiking trails, and soaring natural towers. 

Getting There

Make your way to Safford, then head east on US-70 for five miles. Turn onto Sanchez Road at Solomon and follow signs to Bonita Creek.

8. Tumacacori National Historical Park

Drive down to the southwestern corner of the state to reach Tumacacori National Historic Park. This historic landmark is an impressive testament to the test of time. It represents the cultures of local indigenous tribes, the early settlers, European missionaries, and soldiers. This spot is one of the more remote spots in Arizona that is also surprisingly close to “civilization.”

Why You Should Go

There are well-worn paths that will take you through a world long inhabited by countless groups of people. One of the southwest’s most prominent missions is still standing and preserved so visitors can get a taste of the old west. There is much to learn about the relationships between settlers, tribes, priests, and soldiers. 

Getting There

While this stunning spot sits less than an hour from Tucson, you will feel like you’re in another world. Head straight south on I-19. You’ll reach your destination after passing through Tubac. 

Summary of the 8 Most Remote Spots in Arizona