as small as a world and as large as alone

1:49am May 4, 2014

mypubliclands:

Aravaipa Canyon is as close to the perfect hike as I have ever encountered.  It starts out at the trailhead as a scenic trek through  a riparian forest of cottonwoods and willows, then turns spectacular a short time later (understatement) as it enters a 1,000 ft. deep canyon in about a mile in.  While most canyons this dramatic require rope assisted descents or at least some rock scrambling, Aravaipa is… well pretty easy.  Hikers and backpackers must wear water shoes, as you’ll be crossing and wading through the clear stream constantly.  The water temperature was perfect for wading, at least this time of year… the rocks are not slippery, its flat, it just doesn’t get any better! The area would be quickly overwhelmed if the BLM had not instituted a permit system to limit use in the narrow fragile canyon.  The BLM Safford Office issues permits.  More from their website:

The 19,410-acre Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness is 120 miles southeast of Phoenix, Arizona in Graham and Pinal counties.  The wilderness includes the 11-mile long Aravaipa Canyon, as well as, the surrounding tablelands and nine side canyons.  Seven species of native desert fish, desert bighorn sheep, and over 200 species of birds live among shady cottonwoods along the perennial waters of Aravaipa Creek.  Additional information is available on the Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness Permits page. 

-Bob Wick, BLM Wilderness Specialist

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