This picnic area, located along the 21-mile-long Black Hills National Back
Country Byway, provides a scenic vista of the Gila River canyon and nearby
mountain ranges.

Visit recreation sites within or nearby the Gila Box Riparian National
Conservation Area:

  * Riverview Campground

  * Owl Creek Campground

  * Dry Canyon Picnic Area

  * Spring Canyon Picnic Area

  * Lee Trail Picnic Area

  * Serna Cabin Picnic Area & Historical Site

  * Bonita Creek Watchable Wildlife Viewing Area

  * Safford-Morenci Trail

  * Flying W Group Day Use Area

  * Gila River Boat Put-In

  * Old Safford Bridge Picnic Area

<p>This picnic area, located along the 21-mile-long <a href="https://www.blm.gov/visit/search-details/16856/2" rel="nofollow">Black Hills National Back Country Byway</a>, provides a scenic vista of the Gila River canyon and nearby mountain ranges.</p><p>Visit recreation sites within or nearby the Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area:</p><div><div><ul><li><div><a href="https://www.blm.gov/visit/riverview-campground" title="Riverview Campground" rel="nofollow">Riverview Campground</a></div></li><li><div><a href="https://www.blm.gov/visit/owl-creek-campground" title="Owl Creek Campground" rel="nofollow">Owl Creek Campground</a></div></li><li><div><a href="https://www.blm.gov/visit/dry-canyon-picnic-area" title="Dry Canyon Picnic Area" rel="nofollow">Dry Canyon Picnic Area</a></div></li><li><div><a href="https://www.blm.gov/visit/spring-canyon-picnic-area" title="Spring Canyon Picnic Area" rel="nofollow">Spring Canyon Picnic Area</a></div></li><li><div><a href="https://www.blm.gov/visit/lee-trailheadpicnic-area" title="Lee Trailhead/Picnic Area" rel="nofollow">Lee Trail Picnic Area</a></div></li><li><div><a href="https://www.blm.gov/visit/serna-cabin-picnic-area-historical-site" rel="nofollow">Serna Cabin Picnic Area & Historical Site</a></div></li><li><div><a href="https://www.blm.gov/visit/bonita-creek-watchable-wildlife-viewing-area" title="Bonita Creek Watchable Wildlife Viewing Area" rel="nofollow">Bonita Creek Watchable Wildlife Viewing Area</a></div></li><li><div><a href="https://www.blm.gov/visit/safford-morenci-trail" title="Safford-Morenci Trail" rel="nofollow">Safford-Morenci Trail</a></div></li><li><div><a href="https://www.blm.gov/visit/flying-w-group-day-use-area" title="Flying W Group Day Use Area" rel="nofollow">Flying W Group Day Use Area</a></div></li><li><div><a href="https://www.blm.gov/visit/gila-river-boat-put-in" title="Gila River Boat Put-In" rel="nofollow">Gila River Boat Put-In</a></div></li><li><a href="https://www.blm.gov/visit/old-safford-bridge-picnic-area" title="Old Safford Bridge Picnic Area" rel="nofollow">Old Safford Bridge Picnic Area</a></li></ul></div></div>

View of concrete pathway leading to the two ramada covered picnic sites.

Concrete Pathway

View of the north facing picnic site showing the ramada, picnic table, grill, pathway, and surrounding vegetation and rocky terrain.

North-facing Picnic Site

View of parking area, trash can and start of concrete path leading to picnic ramadas.

Parking Area

Canyon Overlook Picnic Area

Embark on a 21-mile journey through the rugged heart of the Old West along the
Black Hills Back Country Byway. As you travel, imagine the grit and spirit of
the pioneers who once carved their way through this untamed land. They lived
close to nature, faced formidable challenges, and helped shape the legacy of
the American frontier.

Today, you can follow in their footsteps. This is a Type II byway, designed
for high-clearance vehicles. The road is unpaved, made mostly of native soil
with stretches of gravel surfacing. While it’s rugged, it’s navigable with a
two-wheel drive high-clearance vehicle — no extreme gear required.

Primitive side roads offer exciting terrain for off-highway vehicles and
experienced mountain bikers. History buffs will uncover remnants of old mining
operations and 1930s erosion control projects by the Civilian Conservation
Corps.

Rockhounds can head to the nearby Black Hills Rockhound Area to hunt for fire
agates, while unique rock formations along the route invite exploration and
photography. Whether you're hiking trails, wandering cross-country, or simply
pausing roadside, you'll be rewarded with sweeping views of the Gila Box
Riparian National Conservation Area and encounters with the region’s abundant
wildlife.

Camping and picnicking are permitted on public lands along the road, with
several developed sites available. Midway on the byway, the Canyon Overlook
Picnic Area provides shaded ramadas and barbecue grills with a scenic vista of
the Gila River canyon. Closer to the east end of the byway is the Owl Creek
Campground with seven units perched on a cliff overlooking the historic Old
Safford Bridge. The south end of the bridge is a popular launch site for those
floating the Gila River and for fishing for catfish. The north end of the
bridge has a small picnic area.

Mule deer, javelina, and quail are just some of the species that can be hunted
on public lands along the byway.

## Hours and Seasons

The byway is open all year.

## Features and Services

  * **Access and Parking** : The byway is an unpaved route best suited for high-clearance vehicles, especially during wet weather. While the drive offers stunning views, some sections feature narrow drop-offs and steep cliffside passages — so caution is essential. Important: Vehicles over 20 feet in length, including travel trailers and motorhomes, should not attempt this route. Convenient parking areas are available near kiosks at both ends of the byway for larger vehicles. Drive with care and stay alert—always expect another vehicle around the next bend. And remember, mountain driving etiquette gives uphill traffic the right of way. Side routes off the main byway offer rugged exploration, but they’re single-lane, unmaintained roads that require a four-wheel-drive vehicle. These paths can be steep, rocky, and rough, with washes that may obscure the road entirely. Navigation can be tricky, so be prepared and travel smart. 

  * **Drinking Water** : There is no potable water along the byway.

  * **Toilets:** The only toilets along the route are found at the Gila River Boat Put In, located near the northern end. Owl Creek Campground also has a restroom but is only available to paying users of the fee site.

  * **Cell Phone and Internet** : Cell phone and internet reception is spotty, especially in the more mountainous sections of the road.

  * **Pets** : Service animals are legally permitted anywhere that visitors can go. Other non-service pets must be under the physical control of their owners at all times.

## Safety and Conditions

You are responsible for your own safety. Call 911 to contact local law
enforcement, obtain emergency services, or report a fire. There is no first
aid available on-site.

Please take care of yourself and the environment.

  * Check weather and road conditions ahead of time 

  * Bring area-specific maps and route descriptions

  * Carry plenty of water

  * Bring adequate fuel

  * Carry a spare tire, jack, tools, shovel, blanket, etc.

  * Remember that signing is not for target practice

  * Watch for cattle on or near the road

<div><p>Embark on a 21-mile journey through the rugged heart of the Old West along the Black Hills Back Country Byway. As you travel, imagine the grit and spirit of the pioneers who once carved their way through this untamed land. They lived close to nature, faced formidable challenges, and helped shape the legacy of the American frontier.</p></div><div><p>Today, you can follow in their footsteps. This is a Type II byway, designed for high-clearance vehicles. The road is unpaved, made mostly of native soil with stretches of gravel surfacing. While it’s rugged, it’s navigable with a two-wheel drive high-clearance vehicle — no extreme gear required.</p></div><div><p>Primitive side roads offer exciting terrain for off-highway vehicles and experienced mountain bikers. History buffs will uncover remnants of old mining operations and 1930s erosion control projects by the Civilian Conservation Corps.</p></div><div><p>Rockhounds can head to the nearby <a href="https://blm.gov/node/102466" rel="nofollow">Black Hills Rockhound Area</a> to hunt for fire agates, while unique rock formations along the route invite exploration and photography. Whether you're hiking trails, wandering cross-country, or simply pausing roadside, you'll be rewarded with sweeping views of the Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area and encounters with the region’s abundant wildlife.</p><p>Camping and picnicking are permitted on public lands along the road, with several developed sites available. Midway on the byway, the <a href="https://www.blm.gov/visit/canyon-overlook-picnic-area" rel="nofollow">Canyon Overlook Picnic Area provides</a> shaded ramadas and barbecue grills with a scenic vista of the Gila River canyon. Closer to the east end of the byway is the <a href="https://www.blm.gov/visit/owl-creek-campground" rel="nofollow">Owl Creek Campground</a> with seven units perched on a cliff overlooking the historic Old Safford Bridge. The south end of the bridge is a popular launch site for those floating the Gila River and for fishing for catfish. The north end of the bridge has a small picnic area.</p><p>Mule deer, javelina, and quail are just some of the species that can be hunted on public lands along the byway.</p><div><h2>Hours and Seasons</h2></div><div><p>The byway is open all year.</p><h2>Features and Services</h2><div><ul><li><strong>Access and Parking</strong>: The byway is an unpaved route best suited for high-clearance vehicles, especially during wet weather. While the drive offers stunning views, some sections feature narrow drop-offs and steep cliffside passages — so caution is essential. Important: Vehicles over 20 feet in length, including travel trailers and motorhomes, should not attempt this route. Convenient parking areas are available near kiosks at both ends of the byway for larger vehicles. Drive with care and stay alert—always expect another vehicle around the next bend. And remember, mountain driving etiquette gives uphill traffic the right of way. Side routes off the main byway offer rugged exploration, but they’re single-lane, unmaintained roads that require a four-wheel-drive vehicle. These paths can be steep, rocky, and rough, with washes that may obscure the road entirely. Navigation can be tricky, so be prepared and travel smart. </li></ul></div><div><ul><li><strong>Drinking Water</strong>: There is no potable water along the byway.</li></ul></div><div><ul><li><strong>Toilets:</strong> The only toilets along the route are found at the Gila River Boat Put In, located near the northern end. Owl Creek Campground also has a restroom but is only available to paying users of the fee site.</li></ul></div><div><ul><li><strong>Cell Phone and Internet</strong>: Cell phone and internet reception is spotty, especially in the more mountainous sections of the road.</li></ul></div><div><ul><li><strong>Pets</strong>: Service animals are legally permitted anywhere that visitors can go. Other non-service pets must be under the physical control of their owners at all times.</li></ul><div><h2>Safety and Conditions</h2></div><div><p>You are responsible for your own safety. Call 911 to contact local law enforcement, obtain emergency services, or report a fire. There is no first aid available on-site.</p><div><p>Please take care of yourself and the environment.</p></div><div><div><ul><li>Check weather and road conditions ahead of time </li></ul></div><div><ul><li>Bring area-specific maps and route descriptions</li></ul></div><div><ul><li>Carry plenty of water</li></ul></div><div><ul><li>Bring adequate fuel</li></ul></div><div><ul><li>Carry a spare tire, jack, tools, shovel, blanket, etc.</li></ul></div><div><ul><li>Remember that signing is not for target practice</li></ul></div><div><ul><li>Watch for cattle on or near the road</li></ul></div></div></div></div></div></div>

The Black Hills Back Country Byway is free (no fee required) for general
visits by the public.

Commercial, competitive, and large organized group events require a special
recreation permit. Contact the Safford Field Office for more information about
special recreation permits for the Black Hills Back Country Byway.

Image taken at the top of a section of the byway as it climbs a hill looking back toward Safford, Arizona. The byway can be seen trailing off in the distance.

Black Hills Back Country Byway landscape

View of a mountainous section of the byway showing curves, grade, and bumpy road conditions.

Black Hills Back Country Byway mountain section

Photo of a section of the byway demonstrating the typical road condition. Surface is native soil or gravel which is maintained several times a year.

Black Hills Back Country Byway road section

Black Hills Back Country Byway

The 23,000-acre Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area is a year-round
desert oasis.

It includes four perennial waterways: the Gila and San Francisco rivers as
well as Bonita and Eagle creeks. This region is a very special riparian
ecosystem abounding with plant and animal diversity. A canyon section, known
as the Gila Box, is composed of patchy mesquite woodlands, mature cottonwoods,
and sandy beaches. Impressive Gila Conglomerate cliffs tower more than 1,000
feet above the Gila River, and bighorn sheep are commonly spotted. Bonita
Creek, a key tributary of the Gila River, is lined with large cottonwoods,
sycamores, and willows.

Lower water affords hikers the opportunity to safely enjoy the scenic canyon.
Numerous prehistoric and historical structures can be viewed. A network of
primitive roads provides hours of backcountry adventure for four-wheel-drive
and mountain bike trekkers. Hot springs, river rafting, birdwatching, and
miles of trails make this area popular among those in the know.

Canoeing, kayaking, and rafting enthusiasts take advantage of the spring
runoff to enjoy an easy to moderately difficult floating adventure down the
Gila. Many people also float the river in inflatable kayaks during the low
water of the summer.

The Bonita Creek Watchable Wildlife Viewing Area provides a bird’s-eye view of
the riparian canyon below, with over 100 species of birds recorded here. It is
accessible and has numerous interpretive displays and shade shelters.

A homestead cabin, rock art and cliff dwellings, show evidence of the
occupation of this important perennial stream by earlier inhabitants.

Developed campgrounds include the 13-unit Riverview Campground and the seven-
unit Owl Creek Campground. Each has tables, shade structures, grills,
bathrooms, and trash cans. Riverview also has potable water.

## Safety and Conditions

Summer temperatures can be extremely hot, and some winter days quite cold.
Flooding may occur during winter and summer rainy seasons, as well as during
spring run-off. A portion of Bonita Creek supplies the town of Safford with
its municipal water.

No first aid is available on-site. The nearest hospitals are in Morenci and
Safford. Food and supplies are available in Clifton, Morenci, Safford, and
Thatcher.

**Warning to Gila Box Float Boaters** : Two smooth-wire fences connecting
private land parcels are now in place across the Gila River within the Gila
Box. The fences are located 1.3 and 2.7 river miles downstream from the Old
Safford Bridge boat put in which boaters can reach from the Black Hills Back
Country Byway. Although these fences are designed to accommodate rafts and
kayaks, float boaters should exercise caution upon approaching them,
especially at water levels above 100 cubic feet per second. We recommend
scouting from shore.

<p>The 23,000-acre Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area is a year-round desert oasis.</p><p>It includes four perennial waterways: the Gila and San Francisco rivers as well as Bonita and Eagle creeks. This region is a very special riparian ecosystem abounding with plant and animal diversity. A canyon section, known as the Gila Box, is composed of patchy mesquite woodlands, mature cottonwoods, and sandy beaches. Impressive Gila Conglomerate cliffs tower more than 1,000 feet above the Gila River, and bighorn sheep are commonly spotted. Bonita Creek, a key tributary of the Gila River, is lined with large cottonwoods, sycamores, and willows.</p><p>Lower water affords hikers the opportunity to safely enjoy the scenic canyon. Numerous prehistoric and historical structures can be viewed. A network of primitive roads provides hours of backcountry adventure for four-wheel-drive and mountain bike trekkers. Hot springs, river rafting, birdwatching, and miles of trails make this area popular among those in the know.</p><p>Canoeing, kayaking, and rafting enthusiasts take advantage of the spring runoff to enjoy an easy to moderately difficult floating adventure down the Gila. Many people also float the river in inflatable kayaks during the low water of the summer.</p><p>The <a href="/node/102412" rel="nofollow">Bonita Creek Watchable Wildlife Viewing Area</a> provides a bird’s-eye view of the riparian canyon below, with over 100 species of birds recorded here. It is accessible and has numerous interpretive displays and shade shelters.</p><p>A <a href="https://www.blm.gov/visit/serna-cabin-picnic-area-historical-site" rel="nofollow">homestead cabin</a>, rock art and cliff dwellings, show evidence of the occupation of this important perennial stream by earlier inhabitants. </p><p>Developed campgrounds include the 13-unit <a href="https://www.blm.gov/visit/riverview-campground" rel="nofollow">Riverview Campground</a> and the seven-unit <a href="https://www.blm.gov/visit/owl-creek-campground" rel="nofollow">Owl Creek Campground</a>. Each has tables, shade structures, grills, bathrooms, and trash cans. Riverview also has potable water.</p><h2>Safety and Conditions</h2><p>Summer temperatures can be extremely hot, and some winter days quite cold. Flooding may occur during winter and summer rainy seasons, as well as during spring run-off. A portion of Bonita Creek supplies the town of Safford with its municipal water. </p><p>No first aid is available on-site. The nearest hospitals are in Morenci and Safford. Food and supplies are available in Clifton, Morenci, Safford, and Thatcher.</p><p><strong>Warning to Gila Box Float Boaters</strong>: Two smooth-wire fences connecting private land parcels are now in place across the Gila River within the Gila Box. The fences are located 1.3 and 2.7 river miles downstream from the Old Safford Bridge boat put in which boaters can reach from the <a href="/node/100499" title="Black Hills Back Country Byway" rel="nofollow">Black Hills Back Country Byway</a>. Although these fences are designed to accommodate rafts and kayaks, float boaters should exercise caution upon approaching them, especially at water levels above 100 cubic feet per second. We recommend scouting from shore.</p>

Riverview Campground offers a fantastic camping experience in the Gila Box
Riparian National Conservation Area and is a short drive from Safford,
Arizona. It is situated on a northern bench overlooking the Gila River and is
surrounded by various day use sites along the river.

There are 13 first come, first served campsites at Riverview Campground. Each
site has picnic tables, fire rings, grills, and shade structures. The
campsites were recently enlarged to improve access for trailers and RVs. Ten
campsites are pull-in sites, and three are pull-through sites.

There is potable drinking water and a toilet available at the campground.
Flying W Group Day Use Area, a reservable group picnic area, is located next
to the Riverview Campground.

The area contains significant riparian areas with a many birds and other
wildlife as well as unique vegetation. Many visitors use this site as a base
camp during hunting season or while floating the Gila River.

Visit recreation sites within or nearby the Gila Box Riparian National
Conservation Area:

  * Owl Creek Campground

  * Dry Canyon Picnic Area

  * Spring Canyon Picnic Area

  * Lee Trail Picnic Area

  * Serna Cabin Picnic Area & Historical Site

  * Bonita Creek Watchable Wildlife Viewing Area

  * Safford-Morenci Trail

  * Flying W Group Day Use Area

  * Canyon Overlook Picnic Area

  * Gila River Boat Put-In

  * Old Safford Bridge Picnic Area

<div><p>Riverview Campground offers a fantastic camping experience in the <a href="https://www.blm.gov/national-conservation-lands/arizona/gilabox" title="Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area" rel="nofollow">Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area</a> and is a short drive from Safford, Arizona. It is situated on a northern bench overlooking the Gila River and is surrounded by various day use sites along the river. </p></div><div><p>There are 13 first come, first served campsites at Riverview Campground. Each site has picnic tables, fire rings, grills, and shade structures. The campsites were recently enlarged to improve access for trailers and RVs. Ten campsites are pull-in sites, and three are pull-through sites. </p></div><div><p>There is potable drinking water and a toilet available at the campground. <a href="/node/101538" title="Flying W Group Day Use Area" rel="nofollow">Flying W Group Day Use Area</a>, a reservable group picnic area, is located next to the Riverview Campground. </p></div><div><p>The area contains significant riparian areas with a many birds and other wildlife as well as unique vegetation. Many visitors use this site as a base camp during hunting season or while floating the Gila River. </p><p>Visit recreation sites within or nearby the Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area:</p><div><div><ul><li><div><a href="/node/101600" title="Owl Creek Campground" rel="nofollow">Owl Creek Campground</a></div></li><li><div><a href="/node/101998" title="Dry Canyon Picnic Area" rel="nofollow">Dry Canyon Picnic Area</a></div></li><li><div><a href="/node/101748" title="Spring Canyon Picnic Area" rel="nofollow">Spring Canyon Picnic Area</a></div></li><li><div><a href="/node/101536" title="Lee Trailhead/Picnic Area" rel="nofollow">Lee Trail Picnic Area</a></div></li><li><div><a href="/node/101974" rel="nofollow">Serna Cabin Picnic Area & Historical Site</a></div></li><li><div><a href="/node/102412" title="Bonita Creek Watchable Wildlife Viewing Area" rel="nofollow">Bonita Creek Watchable Wildlife Viewing Area</a></div></li><li><div><a href="/node/100338" title="Safford-Morenci Trail" rel="nofollow">Safford-Morenci Trail</a></div></li><li><div><a href="/node/101538" rel="nofollow">Flying W Group Day Use Area</a></div></li><li><div><a href="/node/100546" title="Canyon Overlook Picnic Area" rel="nofollow">Canyon Overlook Picnic Area</a></div></li><li><div><a href="/node/415001" title="Gila River Boat Put-In" rel="nofollow">Gila River Boat Put-In</a></div></li><li><a href="/node/415000" title="Old Safford Bridge Picnic Area" rel="nofollow">Old Safford Bridge Picnic Area</a></li></ul></div></div></div>

The fee for overnight use, with two vehicles per night, is currently $5. Per
additional vehicle is $2.

The Senior and Access “America the Beautiful” passes provide a 50% discount on
expanded amenity campsite fees.

A large color brochure with a map of the Gila Box Riparian National
Conservation Area is available for free from the Safford Field Office.

Bird's eye view of the campground

Riverview Campground

The conservation area is open year-round.

Fees are charged at Riverview Campground and Owl Creek Campground. Use of the
Flying W Group Day Use Picnic Area is free of charge, but you can reserve it
for a fee. Those floating the river also pay a permit fee.

A large color brochure with map is available free from the Safford Field
Office.

Bird's eye view of the park

Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area

The Safford-Morenci Trail is an 18-mile historic backcountry route that offers
a rugged and remote adventure through eastern Arizona. Climbing from 3,700 to
6,200 feet, the trail crosses the Gila Mountains and Turtle Mountain,
showcasing desert vistas and riparian corridors.

Constructed in 1874, the trail was once a vital supply route for ranchers and
farmers transporting goods to the booming Clifton-Morenci mining district. Its
use declined in the early 1900s with the development of automobile roads,
leaving behind remnants of the original pack trail and historic ruins that
hikers can still discover today.

The trail has a mixed-use designation with non-motorized and motorized
sections, although its more popular for hiking and backpacking. The majority
of the trail is designated for non-motorized use and hikers should maintain
caution on motorized sections for vehicle traffic.

Highlights along the trail are the riparian habitat at Bonita Creek, the red-
walled slot canyon at Midnight Canyon, and the views atop the pass near Turtle
Mountain. In 2025, trail maintenance was performed from the west trailhead
towards Johnny Creek Road and from East Bonita Rim Road to the reservation
boundary.

This is a moderate to difficult backcountry trail requiring strong navigation
skills. Always pack extra water, check weather conditions before your trip,
and practice wildlife safety. Carry detailed topographic maps, a compass, and
a GPS device, as signage is minimal and route finding can be challenging.

Portions of the trail cross mixed land ownership, so permits are required: an
Arizona State Trust Land permit for a short section and a San Carlos Apache
Tribal permit for the segment on tribal land. See ‘Fees’ section below for
details.

If visitors are looking for a much longer hike, the Grand Enchantment Trail
(GET) follows the Safford-Morenci Trail for part of its route. The GET runs
730 miles between Phoenix and Albuquerque. Its route was mapped by a long-
distance hiker but is not recognized by any official authority. It draws a few
dozen backpackers through this area a year.

## Hours and Seasons

The trail is best explored in fall through spring, when temperatures are
cooler and conditions are more favorable for hiking. The trail is open all
year and at all hours of the day.

## Features and Services

  * **Drinking Water** : The Bonita Creek’s clear, cool water is inviting for a soak, but must be treated before drinking due to human, cattle, and wildlife activity upstream. Carry plenty of water with you.

  * **Toilets** : No toilet facilities are located at trailheads or along the trail. Practice Leave No Trace ethics when it comes to disposal of human waste.

  * **Cell Phone and Internet** : Cell phone and internet coverage is not reliable and should not be depended on for emergency communications.

  * **Pets** : Service animals are legally permitted anywhere that visitors can go along this trail. Other non-service pets must be under the physical control of their owner at all times. 

  * **Nearby Attractions and Amenities** : No amenities exist in the nearby area. Attractions are the Gila Box RNCA, Bonita Creek, Eagle Creek, and Pueblo Devol Cliff Dwelling.

## Safety and Conditions

You are responsible for your own safety. Call 911 to contact local law
enforcement, obtain emergency services, or report a fire. There is no first
aid available.

Winter travelers should be prepared for possible snow at higher elevations.
Water sources along the route are extremely limited, with Bonita Creek being
the primary reliable source. Always treat water before drinking. The trail’s
remote nature means visitors should plan for self-sufficiency and be aware of
local wildlife, including bears and mountain lions, particularly near riparian
areas. Anticipate cattle along the way as this trail crosses many active
grazing allotments.

Expect potential hazards such as venomous animals, extreme heat or cold, and
flash floods. Be prepared for weather changes and stay informed on alerts.
Have the appropriate gear, food, and water.

<div><p lang="EN-US">The Safford-Morenci Trail is an 18-mile historic backcountry route that offers a rugged and remote adventure through eastern Arizona. Climbing from 3,700 to 6,200 feet, the trail crosses the Gila Mountains and Turtle Mountain, showcasing desert vistas and riparian corridors.</p></div><div><p lang="EN-US">Constructed in 1874, the trail was once a vital supply route for ranchers and farmers transporting goods to the booming Clifton-Morenci mining district. Its use declined in the early 1900s with the development of automobile roads, leaving behind remnants of the original pack trail and historic ruins that hikers can still discover today.</p></div><div><p lang="EN-US">The trail has a mixed-use designation with non-motorized and motorized sections, although its more popular for hiking and backpacking. The majority of the trail is designated for non-motorized use and hikers should maintain caution on motorized sections for vehicle traffic. </p><p lang="EN-US">Highlights along the trail are the riparian habitat at Bonita Creek, the red-walled slot canyon at Midnight Canyon, and the views atop the pass near Turtle Mountain. In 2025, trail maintenance was performed from the west trailhead towards Johnny Creek Road and from East Bonita Rim Road to the reservation boundary. </p></div><div><p lang="EN-US">This is a moderate to difficult backcountry trail requiring strong navigation skills. Always pack extra water, check weather conditions before your trip, and practice wildlife safety. Carry detailed topographic maps, a compass, and a GPS device, as signage is minimal and route finding can be challenging.</p><p lang="EN-US">Portions of the trail cross mixed land ownership, so permits are required: an Arizona State Trust Land permit for a short section and a San Carlos Apache Tribal permit for the segment on tribal land. See ‘Fees’ section below for details.</p><p lang="EN-US">If visitors are looking for a much longer hike, the Grand Enchantment Trail (GET) follows the Safford-Morenci Trail for part of its route. The GET runs 730 miles between Phoenix and Albuquerque. Its route was mapped by a long-distance hiker but is not recognized by any official authority. It draws a few dozen backpackers through this area a year.</p><div><h2>Hours and Seasons</h2></div><div><p lang="EN-US">The trail is best explored in fall through spring, when temperatures are cooler and conditions are more favorable for hiking. The trail is open all year and at all hours of the day.</p><div><h2>Features and Services</h2></div><div><ul><li><p><strong>Drinking Water</strong>: The Bonita Creek’s clear, cool water is inviting for a soak, but must be treated before drinking due to human, cattle, and wildlife activity upstream. Carry plenty of water with you.</p></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><p><strong>Toilets</strong>: No toilet facilities are located at trailheads or along the trail. Practice Leave No Trace ethics when it comes to disposal of human waste.</p></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><p><strong>Cell Phone and Internet</strong>: Cell phone and internet coverage is not reliable and should not be depended on for emergency communications.</p></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><p><strong>Pets</strong>: Service animals are legally permitted anywhere that visitors can go along this trail. Other non-service pets must be under the physical control of their owner at all times.  </p></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><p><strong>Nearby Attractions and Amenities</strong>: No amenities exist in the nearby area. Attractions are the Gila Box RNCA, Bonita Creek, Eagle Creek, and Pueblo Devol Cliff Dwelling.</p></li></ul><div><h2>Safety and Conditions</h2></div><div><p>You are responsible for your own safety. Call 911 to contact local law enforcement, obtain emergency services, or report a fire. There is no first aid available.</p></div><div><p lang="EN-US">Winter travelers should be prepared for possible snow at higher elevations. Water sources along the route are extremely limited, with Bonita Creek being the primary reliable source. Always treat water before drinking. The trail’s remote nature means visitors should plan for self-sufficiency and be aware of local wildlife, including bears and mountain lions, particularly near riparian areas. Anticipate cattle along the way as this trail crosses many active grazing allotments.  </p><div><p lang="EN-US">Expect potential hazards such as venomous animals, extreme heat or cold, and flash floods. Be prepared for weather changes and stay informed on alerts. Have the appropriate gear, food, and water.</p></div></div></div></div></div>

A recreation permit is needed for crossing Arizona State Trust Land one mile
southwest of the East Trailhead. Permits are available by mail or in person at
the Arizona State Land Office in Phoenix, Tucson, and Flagstaff, and from the
Arizona Public Lands Information Center in Phoenix.

A San Carlos Apache Tribal recreation permit should be obtained if you wish to
cross the short section of the trail that passes through the reservation in T.
4 S., R. 28 E. Permits are available from the Tribal Recreation and Wildlife
Department in Peridot, or from convenience stores in Safford and Pima.

Turtle Mountain Summit

Safford-Morenci Trail

This WSA is a 22-acre area that remained after the adjacent Arizona portion of
the WSA was released from wilderness review in 1990. The remaining New Mexico
portion continues to be managed as a WSA pending Congressional action.

<p>This WSA is a 22-acre area that remained after the adjacent Arizona portion of the WSA was released from wilderness review in 1990. The remaining New Mexico portion continues to be managed as a WSA pending Congressional action.</p>

Contact the field office for more information.

Canyon Overlook Picnic Area

Directions

Reviews

Nearby Parks

Black Hills Back Country Byway

Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area

Safford-Morenci Trail

Hoverrocker Wilderness Study Area