Aravaipa Canyon

About 120 miles from Phoenix, Aravaipa Canyon is a beautiful, secluded hiking/ camping area. 

The canyon walls can tower over a thousand feet above you.  In some places, they open to reveal stunning views.  The canyon shelters a wide variety of wildlife.   A stream meanders through the canyon, bordered by wildflowers and cottonwoods.  You will need to cross this stream many times, so wear waterproof hiking boots (knee high ones) or plan to get your feet wet!

There are two entrances to the canyon.  We entered from Aravaipa Road, near Winkelman.  This road was a bumpy, gravel road, but we were able to access it in our car.  We spent 6 hours exploring and hiking and went about four miles into the canyon.  If you want to hike through the entire canyon, plan to camp! Do check the weather before you go, and postpone your trip if rain is expected. 

Only fifty people per day are allowed into the canyon, and you will need to purchase a permit in advance.   When we visited, permits cost $5 per person.   Click here to visit the BLM website to purchase a permit or to get more information and directions.