Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness
The Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness is one of the rare, remote sceneries in Arizona. It is well protected with good reason; the canyon was carved by Aravaipa Creek, which flows year round and supports one of the most unique ecosystems in the state of Arizona. The area is comprised of both private and federal land, including protected areas by The Nature Conservancy, encompassing over 69,000 acres.
This is the most famous attraction in the area, and we could not recommend it enough! If you can get permits, it’s a must do. This hike can be as short or long as you’d like. The majority of the hike is in the creek, and the red canyon walls start closing in above you about 2.5 miles from the trailhead. Stay quiet and you’ll see a plethora of birds, and possibly other wildlife such as Desert Bighorn Sheep, Coues Deer, Coatimundi and Javelina.
To get to the trailhead, drive up the road for 5 miles until it dead ends. Park here, sign in, and leave your permit number on the dashboard (bring one copy with you). Embrace the water, shade and lush habitat as your feet will get wet within the first mile (usually only mid-calf depth). Follow the creek or lightly marked trail for as long as you’d like through Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness.
Hiking poles and boot gaters are recommended to keep small rocks out of your shoes (your feet will get wet no matter what). We have a few to rent in our market if you’d like to pick some up.
A recent guest, Tim Koppenhaver, is on a quest to visit 100 Nature Conservancy (TNC) properties before he is 60. Aravaipa Canyon is his most recent hike. Check it out.
Permits
Only 30 people are allowed into the Wilderness Area each day. A permit is required and they are often hard to obtain. Permits open up 90 days in advance and often sell out within minutes during weekends and the peak season of March-May, and September-November. We recommend getting your permit before making your reservation if you’re staying with us in order to hike the canyon.
We are on the West Entrance of Aravaipa Canyon. The East Entrance is a 4.5 hr drive so is not advised for our guests.
If you’re having a hard time finding a permit, we recommend hiking December through February. If you are not able to get a permit, there are other ways to reconnect with nature here. A couple other hikes in the area are just as beautiful, yet hardly frequented by other hikers, a kid-friendly creek walk leaves right from the inn, and a well-maintained path loops around the orchard.
Be Prepared
No matter your experience level, here are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind before going hiking in the area:
Bring sturdy shoes. The paths are constructed so that the environment isn’t too disturbed. As such, you may find holes, brush, and rocks in your path. A sturdy pair of shoes will protect not only your feet from blisters, but also from anything sharp and rolling an ankle if you trip. We also recommend wearing thick socks and using hiking poles, as you’ll walk through the water many times.
Sunscreen. Even in the winter months, you can get a sunburn if you’re exposed for too long. Make sure you apply before heading out, and bring some with you so that you can reapply.
Water. Bring more than you think you’ll need, so that you can avoid dehydration. Water from the creek should be treated before it is ready for human consumption.
Map and compass. It’s easy to get turned around when you’re on a trail for the first time. We have maps at the market for you to take, and bringing a compass will help you find your way since the GPS will not work on your phone.
Communicate. It is good practice to always let someone know which trail you’re planning to go on and how long you think you’ll be out. Then if you have an emergency, someone will be able to alert the authorities in a timely manner.
Leave Only Footprints
This land is precious to so many, and we want to make sure we are doing our part to preserve its beauty. When you hike, please be mindful not only of not disturbing the natural habitat, but also that you do not leave behind anything you brought in.
