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.
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 13 weeks 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.
Before You Head Out
No matter your experience level, here are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind before going hiking in the area:
Permits Required.
Bring sturdy shoes. The paths are constructed so that the environment isn’t too disturbed. The trail travels through creek beds, sand, brush and rocky terrain. You will be crossing water multiple times. Sturdy shoes that allow water to drain are ideal. Neoprene socks, thick hiking socks, and trekking poles are highly recommended .
Sunscreen. Even in the cooler months, desert sun exposure is intense. Apply sunscreen before hiking, and bring additional protection such as hats, long sleeves, and sunglasses.
Water. Bring more water than you think you will need. Dehydration is a serious risk in the canyon. Creek water is not safe for drinking unless properly filtered or treated.
Navigation & Communication. Cell service and GPS are unreliable or nonexistent in the canyon. Download maps ahead of time and let someone know your hiking plan and expected return time before entering.
Weather Awareness.
Flash flooding is a real danger in the canyon, especially during monsoon season. Always check weather conditions before hiking and avoid the canyon if storms are predicted anywhere in the watershed.
Leave Only Footprints
Aravaipa Canyon is a protected wilderness area and a sacred, fragile ecosystem. We ask that all visitors strictly follow Leave No Trace principles:
Stay on established trails and in the creek bed
Do not disturb wildlife, plants, or rock formations
Pack out everything you bring in
Do not remove natural items
Respect other hikers and keep noise to a minimum
Preserving the wilderness ensures that this special place remains wild, safe, and accessible for generations to come.
