Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness

Two hikers cross a stream in Aravaipa Canyon.

A trekker crosses a stream in the Aravaipa wilderness.

Explore the Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness.

The Aravaipa Canyon has been described as "a gem of the Southwestern desert."

The 19,410-acre Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness is 120 miles southeast of Phoenix, and includes the 11-mile long Aravaipa Canyon, as well as, the surrounding tablelands and nine side canyons.

Within the colorful 1,000-foot canyon walls, outstanding scenery, wildlife, and rich history are all protected.

Seven species of native desert fish, desert bighorn sheep, and more than 200 species of birds live among shady cottonwoods along the perennial waters of Aravaipa Creek.

To preserve this "desert gem," the Bureau of Land Management has restricted access by requiring permits for all users. Currently, the maximum stay is three days and two nights and no more than 50 people are allowed in the canyon per day. Equestrians are restricted to day-use only.

Fourmile Canyon Campground offers 10 tent or RV sites. Within the canyon, overnight backpacking is allowed by permit only.

There are two entrances, east and west, to the wilderness area. From Safford, follow Hwy. 70 west for 13 miles to the Aravaipa Klondyke Road. Follow this graded dirt road for 45 miles to the east trailhead.

The west trail head is 11 miles south of Winkelnam, Arizona on Hwy. 77 and 12 miles east of Hwy. 77 at Aravaipa Road. The 12-mile west access road is suitable for passenger vehicles. The east access road requires a high-clearance vehicle given the rough conditions and river crossings.