seligman to prescott - williamson valley road

Question

Hi i'd like an alternative drive (in August) from Seligman to Prescott . Google map suggests Williamson Valley Road ... is it paved or not ? If not , how many miles of unpaved road ?

Answer

The drive from Seligman to Prescott through Williamson Valley Road (also known as County Road 5 or Williamson Valley–Seligman Road) is a scenic backcountry route that many travelers consider as an adventurous alternative to the main highway route via I-40 and AZ-89. However, it’s important to note that this route is only partially paved and includes a significant stretch of unpaved road, especially between Seligman and the northern parts of Williamson Valley.

Starting from Seligman, the road heads south and connects with Williamson Valley Road, continuing toward Prescott. The first section leaving Seligman (about 10–15 miles) is generally paved or well-maintained, but after that, the pavement gives way to a long unpaved stretch that extends for roughly 30–35 miles through ranchland and high desert terrain. The unpaved section can vary in condition depending on recent weather — during dry summer months, it’s typically passable in a regular vehicle, but after rain, it can become muddy and rough, requiring high clearance or all-wheel drive.

Total distance: Around 75–80 miles from Seligman to Prescott via Williamson Valley Road.
Paved portion: Approximately 40–45 miles (mainly near Seligman and as you approach Prescott).
Unpaved portion: Roughly 30–35 miles through the middle section of the route.

The final part of the route, closer to Prescott (south of Williamson Valley Ranch Road), is fully paved and becomes a standard suburban two-lane road as you enter the outskirts of the city. Traffic is light for most of the journey, and the landscape includes wide-open grasslands, mountain views, and occasional cattle crossings, giving you a real sense of Arizona’s rugged backcountry.

Vehicle recommendation: While some travelers manage the route in a sedan during dry weather, a high-clearance or SUV-type vehicle is strongly recommended, especially if there’s been recent rain.
Cell service: Limited or nonexistent for much of the unpaved stretch, so plan ahead and bring water, fuel, and a paper map or offline GPS.
Travel time: Expect around 2.5 to 3 hours depending on road conditions and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

In summary, Williamson Valley Road offers a beautiful, quiet alternative drive between Seligman and Prescott, but it’s not fully paved. You’ll encounter about 30 miles of gravel or dirt road in the middle section, which is typically manageable in summer if you drive carefully and weather is good. For comfort and safety, consider checking local road reports before setting out, and if you prefer a fully paved and faster option, the main route via I-40 to AZ-89 remains the better choice.