Dry Canyon Slot Canyon

This hike up the wash of Dry Canyon in Arizona’s Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area leads to a little known slot canyon. Dry Canyon is one of several large washes within the Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area that run down off the Gila Mountains to meet the Gila River. This is an out and back hike of 2.1 miles with an elevation gain of just over 200 feet. There are no fees to enter the Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area or fees to park when taking this hike. Dogs are allowed on this hike when kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet.

Dry canyon is located on the western side of the Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area about 15 miles northeast of Safford, Arizona. From Safford to reach the parking area for this hike, travel five miles east on U.S. Highway 70 to Solomon. At Solomon, turn left onto Sanchez Road and follow Sanchez Road a bit past the end of the pavement. Turn left onto Bonita Creek Road. Follow Bonita Creek Road for 2.7 miles. Park at the Dry Canyon Boat Take-Out.

After parking, begin this hike by crossing Bonita Creek Road and heading up the Dry Canyon wash. The hike up the canyon is quite rocky and has a slow steady climb in elevation which is not difficult. Dry Canyon is quite scenic in its own right, but the payoff comes at about the one-mile mark where there is a short, but interesting slot canyon off to the right. After exploring the slot canyon, you can explore Dry Canyon further up the wash or return to the Dry Canyon Boat Take-Out. Once back to the parking area, take the short walk down to explore the Gila River and the high cliffs that tower above the river at this location.