Sheep Bridge Over the Verde River, Yavapai County, Arizona

Sheep Bridge, spanning the blue-green Verde River in Arizona's high desert, is a place not reached by many. The rugged hour and a half long trek from I-17 feels much like airplane turbulence as the road makes its rust colored, winding descent to the valley floor. Dipping through shady washes, it passes impressive cottonwoods (yellow in fall), and crests foothills dotted with cool green prickly pear and imposing saguaro. Blind curves occasionally give way to an oncoming side by side or other high clearance vehicle. Until you see one, you simply hog the road.

The current Sheep Bridge is a replica suspension bridge constructed by the Forest Service in 1989. The original bridge, constructed in 1943 by the Flagstaff Sheep Company, protected sheep from the drive across the river to different grazing ranges and climate zones. The bridge was used for sheep drives until 1978 and demolished ten years later in 1988. Natural hot springs in the area are still used by some. Though remote, the area is alive with backpackers, campers and off road enthusiasts enjoying this unique wilderness.

Early on your journey, you pass the Agua Fria National Monument with its cool waters, smooth, white granite boulders and Native American ruins. Also in this area is the Great Western Trail, spanning the western United States from the Mexican to Canadian borders.

Plan Your Trip

USDA: Sheep Bridge

BLM: Agua Fria National Monument

Road Trip Studios Unique Mementos and Gifts

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Road Trip Studios: Family-Friendly Adventures on Route 66 and Beyond in the Great Southwest

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