This is our first ride of spring, motorcycle camping in the desert. Eva and I are off on a 3-day/3-night riding and camping motorcycle adventure in Southern Arizona.
Locations in this Video
Gear
I’m riding a BMW R1200 GS and Eva is riding a brand new Honda Africa Twin – a special bike build for Overland Expo.
Riding Over Apache Pass
After leaving our home at The Jonquil Motel in Bisbee, Arizona we rode over Apache Pass.
Camping at Dos Cabezas
We spent the first night camping in the Dos Cabezas Wilderness Area. There are several dispersed camping sites located just past the Indian Bread Rocks Picnic Area.
Black Hills Backcountry Byway
The next morning we rode north through Clifton, Arizona and then headed down the Black Hills Backcountry Byway, a short scenic drive that crosses over the Gila River.
Gila River
This is a view of the Gila River from the Old Safford Bridge which crosses the river a few miles into the route from the north.
Motorcycle Camping Dinner
Our motorcycle camping dinner this evening consists of fresh steak, instant potatoes and broccoli.
Sunset Over Mountains
Meal preparation takes place under an amazing Arizona sunset on the Black Hills Backcountry Byway.
Cooking with Firebox Stove
My favorite method for motorcycle cooking is the Firebox Stove.
Kovea Lantern
I also have a small Kovea lantern which runs off of a camping stove fuel cylinder.
Black Hills Backcountry Byway
Back on the Black Hills Backcountry Byway the following morning, looking forward to another day of motorcycling in Arizona.
Mountains with Snow in the Desert
The Pinaleño Mountains and Mount Graham rising in front of us. It is possible to ride up to almost 9,000 feet on Mount Graham.
Hot Springs
We stopped at the Essence of Tranquility Hot Springs for a quick soak in the hot mineral water pools.
Asparagus and Couscous Dinner
Tonight’s motorcycle camp dinner is asparagus and couscous with peppers prepared over the campfire.
Motorcycle Camping in the Desert
Our first ride of spring motorcycle adventure was a success. We hope that you have enjoyed this trip report and the video the accompanies this article.