2023 was a year full of adventure with Slim, our Chevy Colorado ZR2! To round out the year, we ranked our favorite Top 10 adventures throughout the Southwest that made a lasting impression on us. Here's to a great New Year!

1. Buckhorn Draw Road: Snaking its way through the captivating landscapes of Utah, Buckhorn Draw Road offers a mesmerizing journey through canyons adorned with ancient petroglyphs and rock art. This off-road adventure combines natural beauty with cultural history, creating a unique and enriching exploration for those seeking the hidden gems of the American Southwest.

2. Nelson Rollercoaster: Nestled in the Nevada desert, Nelson Rollercoaster is a thrill-seeker's paradise, featuring challenging off-road trails and spectacular desert scenery. Off-road enthusiasts are drawn to the heart-pounding experience of navigating the rugged terrain, making this destination a magnet for those seeking an adrenaline-fueled adventure in the great outdoors.

3. Valley of the Gods: Offering a serene alternative to the more famous Monument Valley, the Valley of the Gods in southern Utah boasts towering red rock formations and mesas. This less-traveled destination provides solitude amid breathtaking desert vistas, inviting visitors to explore and connect with the ancient geological wonders that define this captivating landscape.

4. Bloody Basin: Immersed in natural beauty and historical significance, Bloody Basin in Arizona takes adventurers through the rugged terrain of the Tonto National Forest. As visitors traverse this landscape, they encounter tales of the Old West, adding a layer of intrigue to the exploration of diverse flora and fauna in this historically rich region.

5. Hualapai Mountains: Majestic and cool, the Hualapai Mountains rise above the Arizona desert, offering a refreshing retreat with dense forests and scenic hiking trails. Nature lovers can revel in the diverse landscapes, creating a peaceful contrast to the arid surroundings and providing a serene escape in the midst of the southwestern wilderness. Along the way, you'll find many great historic relics to explore, making it a perfect destination for off-road enthusiasts.

6. Crown King: Accessible via a historic and challenging off-road trail, Crown King in Arizona is a quaint mountain town steeped in mining history. The journey itself is an adventure, with narrow, winding roads leading to a destination that captures the spirit of the Old West and offers a glimpse into the region's past.

7. Sego: Deep within the Utah desert, Sego stands as a ghost town, preserving the remnants of a once-vibrant coal mining community. Explorers can wander through abandoned structures and artifacts. Additionally, Sego boasts intriguing rock art, with ancient petroglyphs adorning the surrounding landscapes. These intricate carvings and symbols on the rocks provide a window into the cultural and artistic expressions of the indigenous peoples who once inhabited the region, adding an extra layer of historical significance to the haunting beauty of Sego.

8. Mohave Volcanoes: Situated in the vastness of the Mojave Desert, the Mohave Volcanoes showcase ancient volcanic activity. The volcanic cones and lava flows create a surreal landscape, inviting visitors to explore and learn about the unique geological history that shaped this intriguing region.

9. Robber's Roost: Nestled near Sedona, Hideout Cave carries an air of mystery and intrigue. Tied to the region's rich history, this cave is rumored to have served as a hideout for outlaws and bandits, adding an adventurous element to its exploration amidst the stunning red rock formations of Sedona.

10. Sears Point: Sears Point is a significant cliff and archaeological site that has been utilized for thousands of years. The area is home to many archaeological remains left by prehistoric civilizations like its petroglyph site, boasting over 2,000 panels of rock art.


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Welcome to the Cactus Atlas! We are Glenn and Amy and invite you to join us as we visit all sorts of locations across the American West. We tour both natural and man-made attractions.

Our base of operations is in the Phoenix, AZ area. We do a lot of hiking, day trips, and campground reviews and hope that we will be a great resource if you are planning a trip to the American West. We also hope to delight you with our exciting adventures!