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Highway 77: Winkelman to Globe, Copper Corridor, Arizona
Photo: Alan Stark · CC BY-SA 2.0 · cropped

Drives Arizona Phoenix and Central Arizona

Highway 77: Winkelman to Globe

Copper Corridor, Arizona · Winkelman → Globe

Leisurely32 mi35 min4,500 ft climbHigh point ≈ 5,000 ftOne way
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The drive

Highway 77 between Winkelman and Globe is the Copper Corridor Scenic Road, about 32 miles through cliff-walled canyon country. Driving north from Winkelman, the Gila River is on your side for the first stretch, hidden mostly by the cottonwoods along its banks. The BLM's Shores Recreation Site, near the Winkelman end, has a river view, primitive campsites and fishing.

The road then climbs steeply into El Capitan Canyon, which runs between the Pinal Mountains to the west and the Mescal Mountains to the east. Saguaros, ocotillos, agaves and prickly pears line the slopes. The summit is El Capitan Pass at 4,983 feet, with an overlook, shaded picnic tables and a historical marker for the 1846 passage of the Army of the West under Stephen W. Kearny, guided by Kit Carson.

From the pass the road drops toward Globe and Miami, both visible from the top, and ends at US 70 east of Globe. It is a leisurely drive with gentle curves; the grade, not the bends, is the work.

Along the way

  1. Winkelman (Highway 77)
  2. Globe (US-70)
Elevation
4,500 ft of climbing · high point ≈ 5,000 ft
WinkelmanGlobe
Curves
Mostly gentle curves
WinkelmanGlobe
GentleHairpins

Good to know

  • The climb out of the Gila River valley toward El Capitan Pass is steep; the Arizona Highways description notes two runaway-truck ramps on the grade.
  • The El Capitan Pass overlook is a good place to stop, with picnic tables in the shade.

Open all year, weather permitting. Roads close for snow, fire, storms and repairs: before you set off, check Arizona 511 (ADOT).

Questions about this drive

How long does Highway 77 from Winkelman to Globe take?

Highway 77 from Winkelman to Globe is 31.9 miles and takes about 35 minutes.

What is El Capitan Pass on Highway 77?

El Capitan Pass, at 4,983 feet, is the high point of Highway 77 between Winkelman and Globe. It has an overlook, picnic tables and a marker about the 1846 Army of the West.

Is Highway 77 the Copper Corridor Scenic Road?

Yes. Highway 77 from Winkelman to Globe is part of the Copper Corridor Scenic Road, which the designation also extends along Highway 177.

Is Highway 77 between Winkelman and Globe twisty?

Not much. Highway 77 is a leisurely drive with mostly gentle curves, but the climb to El Capitan Pass is steep.

What you get in the app

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Distance, time, elevation, curves and intensity are from Carve's route. Checked 2026-10-28.

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Map of Highway 77: Winkelman to Globe, from Winkelman to Globe