Riding Secret Pass by Side-by-Side

Where Secret Pass is

Secret Pass sits in the Black Mountains, the jagged range that rises east of Bullhead City between the Colorado River and Kingman. The route reaches it by way of Arizona State Route 68, the highway that climbs from Bullhead City toward Kingman, using dirt roads that leave the highway and head into the mountains. The pass itself sits at the edge of the Mount Nutt Wilderness.

Published route notes describe a point-to-point ride of about 19 miles one way, with elevation climbing from a little over 2,000 feet to around 3,800 feet. Riding out to the pass and back without completing the whole loop is a shorter day of roughly 30 miles. Allow three to four hours for the route itself, plus time to get to the start.

What the riding is like

This is a rugged desert mountain route. Expect a steady climb, rocky sections, wash crossings and places where the trail squeezes between rock walls. Some stretches are narrow, and route-finding can be tricky where side roads branch off. Along the way you'll see old mine workings, big rock formations and wide views back toward the river valley.

• Rocky climbs: pick a line, go slowly and let the suspension do the work.
• Narrow squeezes: wide machines need care. Get out and look if you're unsure of the clearance.
• Wash crossings: loose and sandy, and dangerous after rain.
• Washouts: storms reshape this route. Expect sections that look different from your map.

Route guides generally rate Secret Pass as moderate, with some tight sections that call for high clearance and careful driving. Riders who have driven a side-by-side before, or who have spent a day on the easier Arizona Peace Trail first, will enjoy it most.

Which rental to take

This is where suspension travel pays off. The Can-Am Maverick handles the rocky climb with less jolting for driver and passenger. A Polaris RZR is nimble in the tight spots and plenty capable for experienced drivers. Groups in a 4-seat side-by-side should expect slower going on the steep, rocky pitches. Thinking about doing Secret Pass after a warm-up day? A multi-day rental gives you time for both.

Rules that matter here

• No motor vehicles in the wilderness. The Mount Nutt Wilderness is closed to motorized and mechanized travel. When the route reaches the wilderness boundary, the riding ends; you can continue on foot.
• Private mining claims. Some side roads lead to private mining property that may still be active. Stay off posted roads and away from equipment and shafts.
• State trust land. Parts of the area may cross Arizona state trust land, which requires a recreational permit from the Arizona State Land Department. Check before you go.
• OHV decal and helmets. Arizona requires an OHV decal on public and state trust land, and riders under 18 must wear a DOT-approved helmet.

Safety in the Black Mountains

Secret Pass is remote. There are no services on the route, and phone coverage is unreliable. Treat it as a backcountry trip:

• Go in the cool season. Fall through spring is the time to ride. Summer heat in these mountains is dangerous if you break down.
• Navigate carefully. Carry a paper map or a downloaded GPS track. Don't rely on signal.
• Set a turnaround time. Decide in advance when you'll head back, whether or not you've reached the pass.
• Watch the sky. Storms can turn washes into fast-moving water. If rain is forecast, choose another day.
• Tell someone your plan, and carry water, food, a first-aid kit and a fully charged phone.

Ask us what's included when you book. We'll talk through your route and current conditions at pickup.

Staying in the south end of the valley? See side-by-side rentals for Fort Mohave.