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Cherry Road Scenic Drive
Arizona Back Road Travel
View from Cherry Road of valley below
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Cherry Road runs NE from State Hwy 169 on its south end to State Hwy 260 on its north end. It twists, rises and falls over approximately 24 miles, reaching an elevation of 5,000 feet as it runs through the community of Cherry.
Allow 1 hour for the journey and bring food, water and enough gas to make the trip. There are no services in Cherry except one bed and breakfast. Powell Springs (2 miles from Hwy 269) has a primitive restroom.
DO NOT make this drive when the road is wet.
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From I-17, take exit 278 and head west on State Hwy 169. 169 travels through wheat covered rolling hills dotted with green shrubs and cactus.
Five miles from the turn-off from I-17, turn right onto Cherry Rd. The entire drive is in the Prescott National Forest.
You will be greeted with a warning sign stating that Cherry Road is primitive: use at your own risk.
Licensed vehicles only are allowed on Cherry Road.
The route begins as a bumpy, "washboard" road. Shortly after the warning sign (see sign above left) the pavement returns for about 3 miles.
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Powell Springs Campground
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The scenery becomes greener and the scent of pine fills the air as the elevation increases. Watch for Powell Springs Campground on the left. The camp sites are well maintained and the primitive restroom is wheelchair accessible.
Powell Springs Camp is a fee area.
Shortly after the campground, the residential community of Cherry appears as a country town from the past. This quiet community has one bed and breakfast - perfect for anyone who desires to be "away from it all".
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Horses near Cherry Road
Community of Cherry
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The road is dirt/gravel from Cherry to Hwy 260 and contains several one lane bridges. The road drops steeply and railings are totally absent. It is easy to understand why
driving in wet conditions is prohibited. Two miles from Hwy 260 is "Grief Hill" trailhead.
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Cherry Road bends around hill.
Notice the absence of guard rails.
Below right: Hwy 260
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Special Tips
Traveling with children, pets or special needs
 Accessibility
The entire trip can be made by vehicle. Powell Springs Campground contains a primitive, accessible restroom.
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 Traveling With Children
Plan a picnic at the campground. Watch children carefully at all stops; the lack of guard rails is a danger to children.
 Traveling With Pets
Leashed pets are allowed on trails and in the campground. Consider the weather and your pet's physical condition when choosing your destination. The Cherry road area can be hot in summer and slippery and muddy when wet.
NEVER leave a pet unattended in a vehicle.
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Directions
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