The Salt River Canyon Trail in Sitgreaves National Forest descends into one of the American Southwest's most dramatic gorges, where the Salt River has carved a deep canyon through ancient Precambrian rock. The seven-mile round trip gains 1,200 feet on a route that drops from the Rim viewpoint at US-60 to the river level and back, delivering canyon views from multiple perspectives.
The Salt River Canyon is sometimes called "Arizona's other Grand Canyon," a comparison that is not entirely fair to either canyon but reflects the geological drama of the gorge. The canyon walls expose ancient Precambrian basement rocks rarely visible elsewhere in the region.
The Route
From the US-60 viewpoint trailhead, the trail descends steeply into the canyon on switchbacks with expanding views of the gorge walls. The river is visible from the upper trail. The route reaches the canyon floor at approximately 2.5 miles and follows the river upstream for the remaining half-mile of the outbound leg.
The river-level section provides a completely different perspective from the rim viewpoint: the canyon walls tower overhead and the river fills the canyon bottom. Return on the same trail. The ascent is demanding; allow extra time and energy for the climb back.
What to Expect
Summer heat is the primary safety concern. Canyon temperatures in June through August can reach dangerous levels. March through May is the ideal window, when temperatures are mild, the river is running with spring flow, and desert wildflowers bloom on the canyon walls.
Bald eagles winter on the Salt River canyon and are sometimes present through March. Peregrine falcons nest on the cliff faces in spring.
Nearby
Globe, Arizona, is about 30 miles west on US-60 and offers full services. Show Low is about 60 miles northeast. The San Carlos Apache Reservation encompasses much of the Salt River Canyon country; their cultural resources include significant archaeological sites visible from the canyon.
Leave No Trace
This trail receives enough use that following Leave No Trace principles is important for preserving the experience for future visitors. Stay on the marked trail to prevent erosion. Pack out all waste. Avoid camping within 200 feet of water sources or the trail. Use existing fire rings only where campfires are permitted, and check current fire restrictions at checking conditions before you go before any visit. The trail and surrounding terrain remain in good condition because previous visitors have respected these norms.