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Wilderness Areas in Gila County, AZ
WILDERNESS AREAS IN
GILA COUNTY, ARIZONA
At 2,969,602 acres, the Tonto Forest is by some distance the largest of the six national forests in Arizona, and has the most interesting, diverse scenery, with terrain and elevation ranging from the cactus covered Sonoran Desert (1,400 feet) to the Ponderosa Pine Forests of the Mogollon Rim(7,400 feet). Besides desert and mountains it contains many lakes , fertile river valleys, rocky canyons and flat plains.
These wilderness areas are home to some of the most amazing wildlife and trophy game in the world including: Elk, Big Horn Sheep, Black Bear, Wild Turkey, Mountain Lions and Birds of every species. Adventure seekers will love the WILD remote feeling of these wide open spaces. Dotted with trails, each wilderness is unique and is ready to be explored.
FIND YOUR WILD IN GILA COUNTY, AZ
Four Peaks Wilderness
The name Four Peaks is a reference to the four distinct peaks of a north–south ridge forming the massif's summit. The Peaks themselves are visible for many miles, and are one of the most widely recognized landmarks in central AZ.
Hell's Gate Wilderness
Hellsgate Wilderness makes up 37,440 acres of emerald pools, perennial streams, and lightly ventured terrain. Elevations range from 3,000 feet along the lower segment of Tonto Creek to 6,400 feet on Horse Mountain.
Mazatzal Wilderness
Picture this: brush and ponderosa pine-covered mountains, sometimes broken by narrow, vertical-walled canyons on the east, and the Verde River flowing gently through on the west. This is a WILD as it gets. Enjoy the journey.
The Salome Wilderness
Elevations range from 2,600 ft. at the lower end of Salome Creek to 6,500 ft. on Hopkins Mountain. Spring and fall are ideal times to visit; area trails are rare and access to the wilderness is limited. Make sure you research the area before heading out.
Salt River Canyon Wilderness
Thought to be some of the most dramatic visitas in Arizona, Salt River Wilderness is awe inspiring. Elevations range from 2,200 feet at the canyon's lower end to 4,200 feet on White Ledge Mountain. Click on the link below to learn more.
Sierra Ancha Wilderness
The Sierra Ancha Wilderness is over 20,000 acres, and is a very special wilderness that includes precipitous box canyons, high cliffs, and pine-covered mountains. Thousands of years ago it was home to the ancient Salado people.
Superstition Wilderness
Known for its lost mines and stories of the super-natural this area is starkly beautiful and often rugged, but can be inhospitable to those not equipped to meet nature on her own terms. Searing heat and lacking water it is very WILD.
