When you think of Arizona, you think of canyons, especially the mother of all holes in the ground - The Grand Canyon. But, one of the best kept secrets in Arizona is the Salt River Canyon.
Located 140 miles from downtown Phoenix, the Salt River Canyon is 40 miles north of Globe and nearly 50 miles southwest of Show Low. Nestled on the border of the White Mountain Apache Indian Reservation and the San Carlos Reservation, the Salt River Canyon forms the norther border of the Salt River Canyon Wilderness, as it winds its way westward from the White Mountains.
The Salt River Canyon Wilderness comprises over 32,000 acres, with elevations ranging from 2,200 feet at the canyon's lower end to 4,200 feet on White Ledge Mountain. The canyon provides a spectacular view from U.S. Highway 60, if travelers simply want to see ti on their way to ro from Show Low or the White Mountains.
The area was first visited by Europeans when Father Eusebio Francisco Kino visited the canyon with its rich colors and towering cliffs in 1698. He dubbed it "Salado" for the salt springs nearby. The entire area was considered sacred by native peoples for its salt resources and its ceremonial and spiritual value.
For those who wish to become more familiar with the Salt River Canyon there are numerous ways to do so. Hiking, mountain biking, fishing, horseback riding, camping, birdwatching and stargazing are all highly recommended. But perhaps the most popular method of experiencing the Salt River Canyon is rafting.
Whitewater rafting is available through several companies specializing in whitewater travel. The class C rapids are somewhat tamer now than several years ago, after they were damaged by vandals using dynamite, but the trip is still a heart-stopping and breathtaking experience.
Trips can be overnight or up to five days, depending on desire and budget. Trips are designed to accommodate both expert and novice. The Salt River Canyon Wilderness has no maintained trails and motor vehicles are prohibited so rafting is the single best way to see this magnificent and little known corner of our state.
For more information on whitewater rafting on the Salt River, visit www.blueskyww.com or contact Blue Sky Whitewater in Globe at (520) 425-5252.
copyright 1998-2005, Catt Foy
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