The Jug

The Jug in the Salome Wilderness is one of the more unique hikes that is found in the state of Arizona.  For hikers looking for a beautiful desert hike with Lake Roosevelt in the background combined with a little bit of canyoneering that culminates in a cliff jump then this is your hike.  The trail is only 6 miles, but hikers should plan on spending at least 6 hours to complete the hike. 

The hike starts out along a meandering descent along a hills side for views of Lake Roosevelt and the east side of the Four Peaks. The trail is easy to follow and is lined with all of the different types of cacti of the Sonoran Desert.  The trail takes a sharp turn to the left and enters the Salome Canyon.  For the next three-quarters of a mile the trial will follow the canyon to the north.  Hikers will be able to see the creek below and the slot canyon that they will soon be entering.  Once hikers are 2.6 miles from the trailhead they will take a right turn in a wash that leads to the creek.  This can be hard to spot so hikers should be aware of where they are at and what wash they are looking for. 

Once hikers reach the creek, the creek becomes the trail.  Hikers should only attempt this trail in late spring or early summer to ensure there is enough depth in the water to complete the hike.  When hikers meet up with the creek, they will be able to hop on rocks for about a quarter of a mile and then it will become necessary for hikers to wade in the water.  Hikers will then navigate through the slot canyon and while most of the drops are easy to navigate some will require extra time and the assistance of an extra hiker.  There may be times where the safest wat to descend is to slide down the natural waterslide the creek has created. 

Eventually hikers will reach the final jump.  The creek creates a waterfall and hikers have two options.  Use the rope overhead and walk out to a step and jump into the pool below or rappel down the 50-foot waterfall.  You must proceed at your own risk.  If you plan on rappelling it is advised that you have the proper equipment to do so and if you jump you must understand that there may be debris in the pool below that can cause injury.

Once you have made it below the waterfall the canyon opens up and hikers can return to the main trail and return to the trailhead.