Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness
The Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness is one of the most stunning sites in all of southern Arizona, offering 10 miles of hiking trails along (and through) Aravaipa Creek that winds through soaring canyons. Mature cottonwood galleries shade the river and offer wonderful primitive camping sites. Permits are required to enter the wilderness area, both for day-use and overnight stays and can be booked months in advance during peak seasons (spring, fall). Great birding along the Aravaipa Road from Highway 77 to the trailhead and entrance of the Aravaipa Wilderness.
Site Information
Region: Phoenix and Central
County: Pinal
Directions: From Hwy 77 just south of Dudleyville, turn east on E Aravaipa Road. The paved road ends at 4.5 miles and becomes increasingly bumpy. High clearance vehicles are most suitable. The road has been periodically closed during flood events.
Latitude: 32.897218
Longitude: -110.487681
Operational Hours: Open all year, 24 hours a day
Admission or Fees: Day use ($5) and overnight ($20) permits are required; permits during high season often sell out months in advance
Best time to visit: Spring, Fall, Winter
Habitats: Desert, Stream or river
Know Before You Go
Dirt road to site can be rough. High clearance vehicle recommended to access trailhead and wilderness area. Hiking trails through wilderness areas have several river crossings. Footwear, hiking poles are recommended. Permits are required to enter the wilderness area. (See BLM website below.) Canyon can be very dangerous during monsoon season and following other rain events.
Safety First! Arizona has many beautiful places to explore and we’d like to help you make it a safe and enjoyable experience. Check out our recommendations for hiking precautions.
Species Highlights
Speciality: Canyon Wren, Common Black Hawk, Gray Hawk, Pyrrhuloxia
Charismatic: Summer Tanager
Contact Information
Safford Field Office
Bureau of Land Management
711 14th Ave
Safford, AZ 85546
Phone: 928-348-4400
Website: https://www.blm.gov/visit/aravaipa-canyon-wilderness
Email: blm_az_sfoweb@blm.gov
Additional Resources
Learn more about birds reported at this location at eBird:
https://ebird.org/hotspot/L3759872
Additional Resources:
BLM - Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness
Permits for Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness
