Off-Roading from Cottonwood to Jerome: Our Copper Chief Trail Adventure
- hanginginsedona
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
One of the things we love most about Northern Arizona is that some of the best adventures happen away from the crowds.
Recently, we teamed up with our friends at Arabella Off Road for a day exploring the historic Copper Chief Trail between Cottonwood and Jerome. What started as a scenic drive turned into one of our favorite local adventures—combining rugged backroads, incredible views, Arizona history, and lunch overlooking the Verde Valley.
If you're looking for a unique day trip during your stay in Sedona or Cottonwood, here's exactly how we spent the day.
Starting in Cottonwood
We picked up our vehicle through Arabella Off Road, a local company that rents Jeeps and Ford Broncos designed for exploring Arizona's backcountry.
While many visitors stick to paved roads, having a capable off-road vehicle opens up an entirely different side of the Verde Valley. The terrain changes quickly, the crowds disappear, and the views become even better.
After a quick orientation, we headed toward the Copper Chief Trail.
The Copper Chief Trail
The Copper Chief Trail, also known as FRS 493 is a scenic off-road route that climbs from the Verde Valley toward Jerome, Arizona's famous mining town perched high on Cleopatra Hill.
The trail winds through high desert terrain with dramatic views of the surrounding mountains and valley below. Along the way you'll see evidence of Arizona's mining history, rugged landscapes, and some of the most beautiful vistas in the region.
One of our favorite parts of the drive was how quickly the scenery changed. Within a relatively short distance, we went from desert vegetation and rolling hills to elevated viewpoints and forests overlooking miles of Arizona landscape.
The trail is adventurous enough to feel exciting but still accessible for visitors looking to experience off-roading without tackling extreme terrain.
Arriving in Jerome
Eventually, the trail brought us onto 89a just north of Jerome, one of Arizona's most unique small towns.
Once known as the "Wickedest Town in the West," Jerome began as a booming copper mining community in the late 1800s. Today, it's filled with art galleries, historic buildings, local shops, and incredible views overlooking the Verde Valley.
Walking through Jerome feels a little like stepping back in time. Historic brick buildings cling to the mountainside, winding streets reveal new viewpoints around every corner, and the town's mining history is impossible to miss.
Lunch at The Asylum
After exploring town, we stopped for lunch at The Asylum Restaurant inside the historic Jerome Grand Hotel.
The Jerome Grand Hotel itself has a fascinating history. Originally built as the United Verde Hospital in the 1920s, the building was later transformed into one of Arizona's most recognizable historic hotels.
The restaurant offers panoramic views of the Verde Valley, making it one of the most scenic lunch spots in the area.
We enjoyed a relaxed meal while taking in the views and reflecting on the morning's adventure. Between the history, atmosphere, and scenery, it was the perfect midway point for the trip.
The Drive Back to Sedona
After lunch, we made our way back toward Sedona, enjoying more spectacular views along the route.
One of the things we appreciated most about the day was how much variety we experienced in just a few hours—off-road trails, mountain views, historic landmarks, local dining, and some of Arizona's most beautiful scenery.
It's the kind of adventure that reminds you why Northern Arizona is such a special place.
Planning Your Own Jerome Off-Road Adventure
If you're staying in Sedona, Cottonwood, or the Verde Valley and want to experience a different side of Arizona, we highly recommend making the trip.
A few tips:
* Start early, especially during warmer months.
* Bring plenty of water.
* Allow extra time for photos—the views are worth it.
* Spend time exploring Jerome's shops and historic streets.
* Consider renting from a local company like Arabella Off Road for a vehicle built for the terrain.
Stay Nearby and Explore More
Many of our guests are looking for experiences beyond the typical tourist attractions, and adventures like the Copper Chief Trail are a perfect example of what makes this region so special.
Whether you're visiting for hiking, stargazing, wine tasting, or off-road exploration, the Verde Valley offers endless opportunities to get outside and discover something new.
And if you ask us, there's no better way to experience Arizona than with a little dust on your tires and a great view waiting around the next corner.
If you need a place to stay for your next Northern Arizona adventure, check out our homes: www.stargazersedona.com
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