Expect the wild! Before highways and railways, before pioneers, even before Columbus... the land we know as the United States was truly a vast wilderness. To protect these last remaining areas, Congress created the Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness. Aravaipa's outstanding scenery, desert fish and wildlife, rich history, and opportunities for primitive recreation will remain free from the influence of man and are protected in this condition for future generations. Its 19,410 acres beckon adventurers who yearn for solitude and scenic splendor.

An incredible adventure is the best way to describe this area. First of all, the Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness is run by the Bureau of Land Management, and they limit its use to 50 people per day. (Thirty from the west end, and twenty from the east.) Before you are permitted to enter the wilderness, you need to obtain a permit from the Bureau of Land Management.

There are no maintained trails in the wilderness. Walking through the creek for extended periods is required, so don't bring your best boots. Tennis shoes or Tevas work fine. Be sure to bring a topographical map and use it! There are no directional signs in the canyon so monitor your progress by keeping track of the numerous side canyons as you pass them. Good map reading skills are essential.

Bureau of Land Management Website http://www.blm.gov/az/st/en/arolrsmain/aravaipa.html

48 miles south of Superior