Goldfield
The Goldfield Recreation Area is one of the most beautiful sites along the Lower Salt River. Also one of the better areas to bird along the Salt River. Raptors are common. From the parking area, follow trails east over a mile through the desert, mesquite, and eventually to attractive riparian stands of willow and cottonwood. Look for desert birds and migrants during spring and fall.
Site Information
Region: Phoenix and Central
County: Maricopa
Directions:
Latitude: 33.5534649
Longitude: -111.6225891
Operational Hours: Open all year, 24 hours a day
Admission or Fees: Day passes for Tonto National Forest required
Best time to visit: Spring and Fall
Habitats: Desert, Stream or river
Know Before You Go
This site is one of the most popular inner tube take-out points and will be extremely busy during the summer.
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: Bendire’s Thrasher, Costa’s Hummingbird, Elf Owl, Gilded Flicker, Ladder-backed Woodpecker, Pyrrhuloxia, Sage Thrasher
Charismatic: Gila Woodpecker, Greater Roadrunner
Contact Information
Tonto National Forest - Mesa Ranger District
US Forest Service
2324 E. McDowell Rd
Phoenix, AZ 85006
Phone: 480-610-3300
Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/tonto/null/recarea?recid=35403&actid=34
Additional Resources
Learn more about birds reported at this location at eBird:
https://ebird.org/barchart?r=L848304
Additional Resources:
Salt River Trails