NOTE: There are two fixed tour dates to choose from:

1. June 5th, 2025 - East Trailhead is much more secluded with far fewer hikers due to the longer off-road travel required to reach the trailhead. The East Trailhead is accessed from U.S. Highway 70 between Safford and Bylas on a 46-mile dirt road that has creek crossings without bridges. A high-clearance 4x4 vehicle is necessary to negotiate the creek crossings in order to reach the East Trailhead. We must watch for reports of any flash flooding during this travel date, as it can prevent trail passage. The East Trailhead is much closer to the Turkey Creek Cliff Dwelling.
2. June 16, 2025 - West Trailhead is more popular because most vehicles can travel the route to this trailhead. The West Trailhead is accessed from Arizona Route 77 between Mammoth and Winkelman (closer to Tucson and Phoenix), on a 12-mile road that is paved for three miles and dirt for nine miles.

PRICING:

• $600 for groups of 2 to 4.
• $800 for a group of 5 to 7.

Embark on an unforgettable journey with Private Jeep Excursions as we water hike and explore the mesmerizing wonders of Aravaipa Canyon via either the East or West trailheads. Surrounded by dramatic towering cliffs that reach toward the azure Arizona sky, crystal-clear water flowing through ancient rock formations, and an astounding diversity of desert flora and fauna, Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness stands as one of Arizona's most extraordinary and pristine natural treasures. Its sprawling 19,410 acres of designated wilderness serve as a sanctuary for adventurous souls who seek both peaceful solitude and breathtaking scenic splendor.

Hiking Essentials Equipment Inspection

On June 1st at 10:00 am we will meet in person at the Fountain Hills Community Center for your "Hiking Essentials Equipment Inspection". Prior to this exam date, you must contact me directly and learn the items you must have with you to be allowed on this trip. There are no exceptions! Your safety comes first! No one breaks my rules! You must refer to this page to learn about: The 9 Essentials for Hiking

The Wonders of Aravaipa Canyon:

Nestled within its pristine boundaries, Aravaipa Canyon presents an awe-inspiring landscape where towering cliff faces reach skyward, crystal-clear waters meander through ancient formations, and an incredible diversity of desert flora and fauna thrive in this untouched wilderness region of Arizona.

Stretching across 12 miles of walkable wilderness, Aravaipa Canyon invites intrepid explorers to embark on an extraordinary journey, where they'll traverse expansive sandbanks, wade through refreshing river crossings, and venture into mysterious side canyons harboring hidden caves and fascinating prehistoric ruins.

Turkey Creek Cliff Dwelling:

Throughout the network of side canyons, adventurous hikers can discover remarkable cliff dwellings, accessible to those willing to undertake challenging climbs. Among these ancient structures, the Turkey Creek cliff dwelling stands as one of southeastern Arizona's most remarkably preserved archaeological treasures. This fascinating site served as a seasonal residence for prehistoric farmers approximately around 1300 A.D., providing shelter for several months each year. The industrious people of the Salado culture made this canyon their home, sustainably gathering native plants along Turkey Creek's fertile banks, cultivating corn in the rich soil, and hunting the abundant wild animals that roamed these lands. The mysterious Salado farming community vanished without explanation around 1450 A.D., leaving behind their remarkably preserved dwelling as a testament to their sophisticated culture.

The Diverse Wildlife Within Aravaipa Canyon:

Among the diverse array of larger mammals that inhabit both the canyon rim and bottomlands, visitors may encounter the majestic mountain lions, social coatimundis, agile ring-tailed cats, powerful black bears, and resilient desert bighorn sheep. The landscape also supports healthy populations of mule deer and javelinas, which can often be spotted foraging in the early morning or late evening hours. The pristine waters of Aravaipa Canyon's 22-mile-long creek serve as a vital sanctuary, supporting one of the last remaining complete assemblages of desert fishes in Arizona, with seven distinct native species that have adapted to these unique aquatic conditions. The canyon's rich ecosystem provides crucial habitat for numerous other wildlife species, including the adaptable lowland leopard frog, the threatened Mexican spotted owl, which finds refuge in the canyon's quiet recesses, the distinctive western yellow-billed cuckoo, the American Peregrine Falcon, the buff-collared nightjar, the elf owl, and the iconic desert bighorn sheep that navigate the steep canyon walls with remarkable agility. One may also find the Sonoran Desert tortoise, Sonora mud turtle, and the venomous Gila monster. It is highly suggested that you bring field glasses for spotting the amazing wildlife contained within Aravaipa Canyon.

June 5th and June 16th, 2025 Aravaipa Canyon Water Hike

Travel Policy

1. Those who have current back or neck injuries will not be permitted to travel.
2. If you are pregnant you are not permitted to travel.
3. All younger passengers must be of age to fit in a regular seat. No car seats are allowed.
4. Pets are not allowed.
5. Prohibited Items: firearms, weapons of any kind, cigarettes, e-cigarettes, or any drugs.

What to Bring

1. Food: You may bring a cooler for food, snacks, and drinks to enjoy during your trip.
2. Drinks: All drinks must have a top that you can close to avoid spilling while on bumpy off-road trails.
3. What to Wear: You should bring a jacket, sweater, or rain jacket as higher elevations will be colder and windy or in case of rain and you decide to hike.
4. Hiking: If your tour includes a formal hike, please read my Hiking Essentials guide to learn how to pack for hiking.
5. Swimming: If your tour requires swimming or a water hike, you will need to bring a bathing suit, water shoes, towel, and change of clothes and footwear.
6. Medications: If you are taking any medications, be sure to bring them with you that you may require within a half-day’s time.

Cancellation Policy

• Private Jeep Excursions has a 48-hour cancellation policy in order to receive a refund. Cancellations made less than 48 hours in advance will not be refunded.

Rescheduling and Weather Policy

1. You may reschedule your trip up to 48 hours in advance to book a new date with no additional charge. You can not reschedule on the same date of your trip. You will need to pay a rescheduling late fee in this case.
2. PJE will not travel during dangerous storms and severe bad weather. Your tour may need to be rescheduled if mother nature is angry on your trip date.
3. Rainfall is often very short and may offer the chance for you to see trail-side waterfalls. Your trip will continue as planned.
4. PJE reserves the right to modify, shorten, or cancel any tour to prevent damage to trails or avoid unsafe conditions.
5. Severe Weather: If severe weather makes it so you have to cancel your trip prior to your departure, PJE will issue you a full refund.