For riders looking for a quick but technical dirt fix, the Gold Gulch route through the Mule Mountains is a local favorite. This 11-mile intermediate trail offers a “concentrated dose” of Southern Arizona’s mining history and rugged borderlands terrain.
Starting just south of the Warren district in Bisbee, Gold Gulch Road (a section of Forest Road 6016) quickly leaves the pavement behind. Expect a mix of loose gravel, sand, and steep, rocky hills. It’s the easiest way to experience the lightly challenging dirt roads in the mountains next to the U.S.-Mexico border.
Rated as Intermediate, this route requires about two hours to navigate comfortably. The highlight of the route is the opportunity to ride through the Crook Tunnel, an abandoned railway tunnel formerly used by the El Paso and Southwestern Railroad. Named after General George Crook, this historic passage cut through the mountains to serve the burgeoning mining industry in the early 20th century. Riding through the tunnel is considered a “bonus” for those brave enough to enter the darkened passageway. As of January 2026, the tunnel remains a significant relic of the area’s railroading legacy, though some legends suggest the dark corridor is “haunted” by its tragic past.
If you’re looking for more miles, Gold Gulch conveniently connects to the Douglas Border Wall Loop for more remote riding.
Details
- Location: Southeast Arizona
- Distance: 11 miles
- Gas: Bisbee, Warren
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Road Surface: gravel, sand, rocks, steep hills
- Time: 2 hours
- Connects to: Douglas Border Wall Loop