Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area

The 23,000-acre Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area includes four perennial waterways, the Gila and San Francisco rivers and Bonita and Eagle creeks. This region is a very special riparian ecosystem abounding with plant and animal diversity. A canyon section, known as the Gila Box, is composed of patchy mesquite woodlands, mature cottonwoods, and sandy beaches. Impressive Gila Conglomerate cliffs tower more than 1,000 feet above the Gila River, and bighorn sheep are commonly spotted. Bonita Creek, a key tributary of the Gila River, is lined with large cottonwoods, sycamores, and willows. Lower water affords hikers the opportunity to safely enjoy the scenic canyon. Numerous prehistoric and historical structures can be viewed. A network of primitive roads provides hours of backcountry adventure for four-wheel-drive and mountain bike trekkers. The Bonita Creek Watchable Wildlife Viewing Area provides a bird’s-eye view of the riparian canyon below, with over 100 species of birds recorded here. It is accessible and has numerous interpretive displays and shade shelters. A homestead cabin, rock art and cliff dwellings, show evidence of the occupation of this important perennial stream by earlier inhabitants. The perennial creek and riparian vegetation make the NCA a year-round desert oasis. Hot springs, river rafting, birdwatching, and miles of trails make this National Conservation Area popular among those in the know.

WEST SIDE: From Safford, travel 5 miles east on State Highway 70 to Solomon. Turn left on the Sanchez Road and follow that to the end of the pavement. Follow signs to Bonita Creek. EAST SIDE: From Safford take US 70 east 10 miles to AZ 191. Follow 191 north 29 miles to milepost 160. Turn left on Black Hills Back Country Byway and follow signs four miles. You can usually get to major access points by passenger car, but other roads may be rough at times because of infrequent maintenance. You will need a four-wheel-drive vehicle on many roads. Check with the Safford Field Office for up-to-date road conditions.