Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness

Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness
East Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness
Klondyke Ranger Station
Phone: (928) 828-3380

West Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness
Brandenburg Ranger Station
Phone: (520) 357-6185

The wilderness has no designated trails, campsites, signs, or facilities within the wilderness boundaries. You will find the land rugged and hikers should be in good condition to pass through dense riparian vegetation (a sign of a healthy ecosystem). You should wear sturdy footgear suitable for hiking in sand, gravel, and cobble with numerous stream crossings in water up to knee deep in normal conditions.

From the West trailhead (2630'), a continuous 430' elevation gain can be expected over uneven terrain for 11 miles to the East trailhead (3060').

• Pets are not allowed in the wilderness.

• Access to each wilderness boundary is courtesy of The Nature Conservancy. Please respect their private property.

• The maximum length of stay is 3 days (2 nights).

• Your party size cannot exceed 10 people.

• Equestrians can have only 5 stock animals per party and stock cannot remain overnight in the canyon bottom.

• Hunters need a permit. The flood plain of Aravaipa Creek and the first 50 vertical feet above the streambed are closed to shooting but are open to bow and arrow hunting in season.

• Use of public land for business or financial gain requires a special permit.

• Wilderness is closed to motorized and mechanized vehicles and equipment.

• Hikers from the east end trailhead should be aware of the parking situation. The wilderness boundary is located 1.5 miles west of the Information Kiosk and restroom (new trailhead). It is recommended that visitors park there and hike through The Nature Conservancy property the remaining distance due to road conditions and possible flooding. Open space at the junction of Turkey Creek and Aravaipa Creek provide additional parking options depending on flood danger.