Come along with us as we scout out Pioneer Pass Campground in the Pinal Mountains. Pinal Peak is a prominent mountain located in the Pinal Mountains of central Arizona, near the town of Globe. It is the highest point in the range, standing at an elevation of approximately 7,848 feet (2,392 meters). The peak is known for its stunning views, forested terrain, and recreational opportunities.
We started our day at The Buckboard City Cafe for breakfast. This is a charming spot along US 60 known for it’s breakfast and lunch options. It serves up a welcoming atmosphere, as well as classic comfort food. It also boasts the World’s Smallest Museum. Unfortunately the museum was closed when we visited, but our food was delicious and the service was great.
Our first stop after breakfast was the Queen Creek Tunnel. This tunnel was built in 1952 to replace the old Claypool tunnel of 1926. You can still access that old tunnel by following the Legends of Superior Trail just South of the tunnel. The Claypool Tunnel was part of a project to provide replacement to the Apache Trail as the main highway between Phoenix and Globe. The Claypool Tunnel and Queen Creek Canyon Highway cost $1,000,000 which is why it is also known as the "Million Dollar Highway."
We continued east on US 60 through Globe, before turning off on Oak St toward Ice House Canyon Road. This is the scenic road we will follow up to Pioneer Pass campground.
The Pinal were historically inhabited by the Pueblo-culture Native Americans known as the Salado culture. However around the middle of the 15th century the Salado inhabitants moved south. About this same time the Apache and Yavapai tribes settled in the area using the resources for hunting and gathering.
In the 19th century, with the discovery of copper, silver, and other minerals, Globe became a booming mining center. Pioneer Pass itself served as an important route connecting Globe with other mining camps and settlements in the region. As the mining boom began to slow down, attention shifted toward conserving the natural beauty of the Pinal Mountains, including Pinal Peak. The peak became part of the Tonto National Forest, a vast protected area that encompasses much of central Arizona. This shift toward conservation allowed Pinal Peak to become a popular destination for many outdoor activities.
Pioneer Pass Campground has been a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a cool escape from the desert heat during the summer months. The campground sits at an elevation of about 6,000 feet, surrounded by ponderosa pines, oaks, and junipers, making it a scenic destination for hiking, wildlife watching, and camping. Pioneer Pass has about 23 campsites located in a loop. Most have a grill, fire pit, and picnic table with some also having bear boxes. There have been bear sightings up there, so always be cautious. There are a handful 4 vault toilets. The facilities were very clean on the day we visited.
Snow is not uncommon in the winter, so be prepared for potential road closures. We were very excited to find this amazing pine treat forest, getaway less than 2 hours from Phoenix.
There is a stay limit of 14 days. There is no trash service, so remember to Pack out what you pack in. Please let us know in the comments if you have any questions about this adventure! Always remember that the images we capture while we explore are available at forloveandcraft.com with proceeds going to feed the hungry.