Route 66 Historic Back Country Byway | Arizona
Route 66 was one of America's first transcontinental highways, linking Chicago and Los Angeles with nearly 400 miles passing through Arizona. Along its path, it linked the "Main Streets" of towns and cities.
This 42-mile stretch of two-lane paved blacktop is one of the last and best-preserved segments of the original Route 66. Almost all variety of vehicles are suitable to traverse the segment however wider vehicles (e.g., RVs) should use caution. The segment also has a length requirement of no more than 40 feet over Sitgreaves Pass between Golden Valley, AZ and the historic ghost town of Oatman, AZ. There is signage in Golden Valley, AZ to remind travelers of the restrictions.
The byway passes through public and private lands, wilderness, valleys, and Main Streets. Please respect all lands and property.
This portion of the highway once included one of the most fearsome obstacles for "flatland" travelers in the 1930s. These include the hairpin curves and steep grades of Sitgreaves Pass, which characterize Old Route 66 as it makes its way over the Black Mountains of western Arizona.
The Route 66 Historic Back Country Byway passes between the Mount Nutt Wilderness and the Warm Springs Wilderness. Visitors can admire the Black Mountains along the way.
Nearby attractions and amenities include Oatman and the downtown Kingman Visitor Center.
Hours and Seasons
The Route 66 Historic Back Country Byway is open all year although the best time to visit is October through April.
Features and Services
Drinking Water: There is no drinking water available. Bring plenty of water.
Toilets: There are no toilets available.
Cell Phone and Internet: There is no public internet or Wi-Fi.
Pets: Pets are allowed and must be kept on a leash at all times. Service dogs are legally permitted anywhere that visitors can go. Please pack out all waste.
Safety and Conditions
You are responsible for your own safety. Call 911 to contact local law enforcement, obtain emergency services, or report a fire. While enjoying your visit, keep in mind that there is no first aid available on-site.
Expect potential hazards along the route such as venomous reptiles and invertebrates, extreme heat or cold, and flash floods. Be prepared for changes in weather and stay informed on weather warning alerts. Let someone know your travel plans and when you plan to return.
Make sure you have the appropriate gear, food and water. Carry a spare tire, jack, tools, shovel, blanket, etc. Bring adequate fuel as the nearest gas stations are located in Kingman, Golden Valley, Bullhead City, and Fort Mohave.
Remember that signing and fencing are for your safety.
Respect and Protect
Please remember to practice outdoor ethics and recreate responsibly. Leave no trace during your visit.
All historic artifacts are protected by law and must remain undisturbed. Leave them as you found them for others to enjoy.
Check for fire restrictions before your visit. Using exploding targets, fireworks, sky lanterns, tracer ammunition and other incendiary devices is prohibited on BLM-managed public land in Arizona.
Accessibility Description (ABA/ADA)
There are two visitor information kiosks at the south and north ends of the 42-mile byway. These kiosks are located within a compacted graveled parking area and are accessed on a concrete pad. Visitors with disabilities could use an assistive device to access these locations. Other areas along the segment are natural and can be rugged, steep, and uneven. There are many areas along the segment where accessibility is limited due to the natural terrain.
Descriptions and photos uploaded December 2025. Please note that actual on-the-ground conditions may vary due to natural events (e.g., weather, wildfires, erosion), normal wear and tear, or site improvements.
Contact Us
Activities
Addresses
Geographic Coordinates
Directions
The Route 66 Historic Back Country Byway begins five miles south of Kingman at the McConnico exit (exit 44) off Interstate 40. To begin at the southern end, exit off Interstate 40 at the Topock/Golden Shores exit (exit 1). Switchbacks access Oatman and the mining community of Goldroad.
Fees
Route 66 Historic Backcountry Byway is free (no fee required) for general visits by the public.
However, commercial, competitive, and large organized group events require a special recreation permit. Contact the Kingman Field Office for more information about special recreation permits.