Backpacking Aravaipa Canyon: West Entrance, Arizona
I finally made it out to Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness through the West Entrance, about two and a half hours from Phoenix. Pulling into the trailhead, I was surprised — only five cars in the lot. For a place this stunning, it felt like I had stumbled onto one of Arizona’s best-kept secrets.
From the very first steps, I knew this trip was going to be special. Backpacking Aravaipa Canyon is all about water crossings, canyon walls that rise like cathedrals, and the strange feeling of being both in the desert and in an oasis at the same time.
River Crossings and Canyon Walls
The trail wastes no time. Before long, I was wading straight into the creek, the cool water wrapping around my legs like a relief from the 100+ degree heat. It reminded me of the Narrows in Zion, but warmer, friendlier water — easily 75 degrees.
The canyon walls towered above me, painted in reds and oranges, with sycamores and cottonwoods offering pockets of shade. It didn’t feel like the Arizona desert I’m used to — more like stepping into another world.
Campsite Perfection
After about eight miles, I scouted around and backtracked to claim what might be the perfect Aravaipa Canyon campsite. A sandy clearing with a fire ring, big logs for sitting, and enough trees to string up my hammock.
I usually bring a tent in Arizona, but this time I packed a hammock — and I’m glad I did. Nothing beats drifting to sleep above the ground, canyon walls glowing silver under the full moon, and the sound of the creek just feet away.
Dinner was Hungarian goulash, a new trail meal experiment. Verdict? Surprisingly decent, though I didn’t let it rehydrate long enough. Still, any warm food in a canyon camp is good food.
A Desert Oasis Morning
Morning brought a sharp drop in temperature. Yesterday had pushed into 103–105 degrees, but by sunrise it was in the 60s — cold enough that I pulled my sleeping bag tight and lingered before hitting the trail again.
The water crossings were shockingly colder than the day before, and I hiked under a pale sky with birdsong echoing off the canyon walls. Eventually the canyon gave way to more familiar Arizona terrain — cactus, mesquite, and the “pointy death needles” you expect in the Sonoran Desert.
It was a stark contrast to the lush canyon just a few miles behind me.
Tips for Backpacking Aravaipa Canyon
If you’re planning your own Aravaipa Canyon backpacking trip, here are a few things to know:
- Permits are required. The BLM limits access to protect the wilderness. Reserve early.
- Prepare for water. You’ll cross the creek dozens of times. Quick-dry shoes and trekking poles are a must.
- Expect heat swings. It can be 105°F in the day and 60°F at night — pack accordingly.
- Bring a hammock if you can. The trees make it easy, and it’s more comfortable than a tent in the sand.
- Keep mileage flexible. The flat terrain makes it easy to cover ground, but the river crossings slow you down.
Wrapping Up
Backpacking Aravaipa Canyon lived up to every expectation. Between the warm water, canyon walls glowing under the moon, and mornings filled with birdsong, this trip reminded me just how much magic the desert holds.
If you’re looking for a backpacking trip close to Phoenix but far from the crowds, Aravaipa should be on your list.
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