Customer Reviews

Guide to Arizona Backroads & 4-Wheel Drive Trails

5 star:		(8)
4 star:		(5)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

We just did a 3 week loop through Arizona, Utah, and Colorado and used Charles A. Wells books for each of those states for planning and navigation. We were extremely happy with these books as guides as we would have had no idea of were to go wheeling with out them.
Very well written and detailed trail descriptions. The maps and overall layout of the books were very friendly and easy to use especially while on the trail. We tried to hit as many of the authors favorite trails as we could and were not disapointed! We also noticed that the volumes were recognized and apparently respected by local tour guides that we met along the trails - a good sign. Some of the volumes included GPS coordinates which were a helpful reference. A mapping GPS makes a good companion to all of these books as you can match your GPS generated progress to any of the books fine maps.

The only down side as another reviewer pointed out, is that the binding of one or two of the books did give up but only because of its high use/abuse on our 3 week trip - don't let that stop you from buying though. (I'm going to move the pages to a binder)

You will be pleased with your purchase!

Thank you Mr. Wells

This book is a good starter for the person who doesn't know any locals in the area to take them 4 wheeling. I have a stock SUV and have done 4 trails, it was great fun. The book provides GPS coordinates to help with trail finding, however they seem to be off by about a mile or two. Perhaps the Waypoints were taken when selective avaliability was still active. I would rate this book as a 5 if the Waypoints were accurate. Trail finding is made somewhat easier by the accurate turn by turn directions based on odometer readings.

All in all, if you want a beautiful tour of Arizona that not many people get, get this book and see the sights. Go with a buddy and take some moderate trails. Eventually you will catch yourself wanting to lift your rig, and get lockers for it too.

I just recently moved to AZ and didnt know my way around the trails at all. I purchased this book and have been very happy with it! It documents alot of trails in different parts of the state (so you can flip to which part your in). It states the historical significance and the navigation data for getting there. GPS users might find that it doesnt list enough navaids but for those without it explains in detail where to start your odometer for each segment of the trail.

Overall great buy.

I have traveled countless miles of Southwestern trails, and I think these are the best trailbooks available for Arizona and Moab. Wells has selected the most scenic and interesting trails, with concise and simple directions. Some people may find the non-topo maps confusing at first, but combined with the written directions, GPS coordinates, and basic common sense anyone should find their way through without incident.

The book is thorough, with relative charts for difficulty and overall enjoyability of a trail, as well as driving tips and preparation guidelines.

As with any printed book, some of the info gets outdated rather quickly, but he does try to post updates on his website. No matter how good a trailbook is, always use an additional navigation source: topo maps, atlas, land management maps (BLM or USFS) and always check with local 4x4 shops, clubs or land management agencies for current conditions.

Good trail guide for the desert southwest. I have always been a fan of the Wells books. I even know a guy pictured in one of the first additions. Great books.

Great resource. Good maps, good directions and even GPS waypoints. Couldn't ask for more.

This book is very accurate to the T. I love the trails that are in this book A+++++

These books are great references to get the process started. But, the information is very limited as well as the maps. Follow up with detailed topographical maps to ensure a safe trip. But, I love just sitting and reading the books and dreaming about the next adventure.

I live and 4 wheel in Arizona. I've used this book and some others to guide me in selecting where to go. There are many trails described accurately in this book that are not covered elsewhere. So buy it and use it. The only problems I've had with this paperback is that it came unbound within a short time and that there is a total absence in this book of the more difficult trails (4+ out of 5) that abound in AZ. I suggest that you obtain the spiral bound versions of his trail books which will make it easier to use while 4 wheeling.

I have reviewed and spot checked Charles Wells' Colorado and Moab guides and found them accurate, concise and a great value for the dollar. While this book has all the earmarks of his earlier books, an easy-to-navigate layout choc-full of useful trail info, I regret that I have not run any Arizona trails to spot check his work with area maps and trusty GPS. His Arizona book is the only one in the my stack that's not looking creased and trail worn from use! Still, I have faith that Wells did his usual thorough work. If nothing else, I can attest to the effort he puts into each page.