Mingus Mountain
Highlights & Remarkable Spots
Mingus Avenue (aka Forest Road 493) / Gravel / ~ Mile 0 to 6
This initial section of road is chunky with mostly embedded rock but it also some loose areas. The average grade is about 8%, with max grades over 20%. This is the most difficult portion of the route, however there are some sections of nicer dirt that will be a welcome reprieve before encountering the next bit of chunk.
Forest Road 413 / Gravel / ~ Mile 6 to 9
This section of the route flattens out and the road becomes much more smooth. You’ll also notice a vegetative shift as you enter the mountainous forest of Ponderosa Pine trees.
FR 413 / Gravel / ~ Miles 9 to 10.5
Intense climb, average grade over 9%, including a section where you will likely need to hike briefly.
FR 413 / Gravel / ~ Miles 10.5 to 19
The final ascent up Mingus with an overall much more manageable incline, but still some sections over 10% grade. During the last 1300 ft. of climbing you’ll also discover some excellent dispersed camping areas (keep this in mind for future visits or for crashing the night before the ride!).
Arizona Highway 89A / Paved / ~ Miles 9 to 35
This is an absolutely epic descent (14.5 miles, 3700 feet, with an average gradient of 4.5%) that goes through Jerome, a historic (and haunted) mining town with charm for days. The views throughout are incredible and most of the time you’ll be moving fast enough to avoid any traffic from behind so that you can simply enjoy.
I would highly encourage you to stop in Jerome. Explore the town, it’s history (read more) and grab lunch. It is all downhill from here!
When We Like to Ride This
We rode this in mid-May during a temperate stretch of weather. We started out of Cottonwood at about 9 am and it was a bit warm until we gained about 1000 feet of elevation and the air started to cool. By the time we got to the top, the temps were amazing and refreshing.
This route will be best enjoyed during the shoulder months (March-May and September-November) but could still be ridden during winter (although you could encounter a bit of snow up on Mingus!).
Terrain & Riding
This route begins in the neighboring city of Cottonwood (elevation 3300) to the east and immediately sends you up Mingus Avenue heading west to begin the ascent. The mostly chunky climb up (about 17 miles and 4500 feet of gain) could bring you to your knees – but while you’re down there be sure to turn around and enjoy the expansive views of the city of Cottonwood (immediately below you), Verde Valley (all around you), and the majestic red rocks of Sedona (off in the distance!).
After conquering the mighty Mingus Mountain, one of the premier hang-gliding destinations in the Western United States, the payoff is an iconic descent down 89A through the historic mining town of Jerome. Soak in the incredible views and enjoy the hard-earned fruits of your labor!
The Start
Cottonwood Recreation Center
Food & Water
- ~ Mile 7.8: Running Water Spout – Bring filter!
- ~ Mile 26: Jerome - Water, Food, Restaurant, Bar, etc.
- ~ Mile 31.5: Clarkdale Gas Station - Water, Food, Convenience Store
Route Notes
I tackled this on a Salsa Warbird with 48mm Rene Herse Oracle Ridge tires, a fast rolling knobby tire. I wouldn’t want anything less, possibly more.
Recommend a red blinky light with rear looking radar detector for the paved descend.
Vanlife: Excellent free dispersed camping along FR 413. Mingus Mountain Campground is only a small fee of $6/night.
Videos
Jerome State Historic Park, Arizona
The Wickedest City in the West!
Keep it Local! Learn More
Ridden and Reviewed by:
Have you ridden this route? Got a question? Join the discussion!