The Back Roads

by Sam Negri

Drawing on an earlier, best-selling edition, this is an all-new take-along book describing 40 drives on Arizona back roads that mostly are unpaved but not uncouth. The routes were compiled with novice back roaders in mind, although a few drives are challenging. Venturing into forests, mountains, and deserts, these drives allow you to slow your life down for leisurely trips. Richly illustrated with color photographs and documented with "Route Finder" directions and maps, these 40 drives will change your appreciation of Arizona's back-country.

Genres: Travel

248 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 2007

About the author

Sam Negri is a journalist and writer who spent nearly three decades covering Arizona for publications such as The Arizona Republic, Arizona Highways Magazine, Sunset, Phoenix Magazine, and The New York Times. In 2000, he joined The Arizona Daily Star as an editorial writer, a role he held for seven years. He later established the Pima County Communications Department, serving as its director until his retirement in 2014.

Reviews

[Peter Tillman · Rating 4 out of 5]

A first rate book of just what it says, 40 drives throughout the state, most suited to a standard sedan -- but for dirt roads, you will feel more comfortable in an SUV or other high-clearance vehicle. Let me tell you about the time in my wife's Honda Accord, on a well-graded road outside Flagstaff, when I kicked up a sharp rock which punched a small hole in the oil pan....

I drove most of these (and many more!) in our 35 years or so living in Arizona. I bought this book almost at the end of our time there, and so didn't get that much use out of it -- but it's up to the usual high standards of Arizona Highways publications, including excellent photos, clear maps, and good directions. If you're a new Arizona resident, or just someone who wants to get some use out of that new SUV, this is the book for you.