Salt River Hiking Trail

If you’re a nature lover looking for an adventure, the Salt River Hiking Trail is an absolute must-visit destination. Located in the Tonto National Forest, Arizona, this trail offers breathtaking views of the Salt River and surrounding mountains, diverse wildlife, and the opportunity to explore the Sonoran Desert. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover all the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports that the Salt River Hiking Trail has to offer.

Top Attractions

The Salt River Hiking Trail is full of incredible sights and experiences. Here are some of the top attractions you won’t want to miss:

1. Salt River

The Salt River is the star attraction of the hiking trail. You can swim, raft, kayak, or simply relax on the river banks and enjoy the serene beauty of the surroundings.

2. Goldfield Ghost Town

Located near the trailhead, Goldfield Ghost Town is a restored 1890s mining town that offers a glimpse into Arizona’s Wild West history. You can take a tour of the town, visit the mine, or watch a gunfight reenactment.

3. Saguaro Lake

Just a short drive from the hiking trail, Saguaro Lake is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and picnicking. You can also take a scenic boat ride and enjoy the views of the mountains and desert.

Hidden Gems

The Salt River Hiking Trail has some hidden gems that are worth exploring:

1. Bulldog Canyon

Bulldog Canyon is a secluded area with stunning desert landscapes, wildlife, and petroglyphs. You need a permit to enter the area, but it’s well worth the effort.

2. Tonto Natural Bridge State Park

Located about an hour’s drive from the hiking trail, Tonto Natural Bridge State Park is a hidden gem that features a natural bridge that is 183 feet high and 400 feet long. You can hike down to the bridge and explore the surrounding trails.

3. The Apache Trail

The Apache Trail is a scenic drive that takes you through the mountains and desert and offers stunning views of the Salt River Canyon. It’s a great way to explore the area and experience the beauty of the desert.

Food Scene

The Salt River Hiking Trail has a vibrant food scene that offers a variety of cuisines:

1. The Handlebar Pub & Grill

The Handlebar Pub & Grill is a popular spot for burgers, wings, and beer. They also have a great patio where you can enjoy the views of the mountains.

2. The Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino

The Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino offers a variety of dining options, from fine dining to casual fare. You can enjoy a steak at Shula’s Steak House or a pizza at Fatburger.

3. The Mining Camp Restaurant

The Mining Camp Restaurant is a historic restaurant that serves up hearty meals like fried chicken and BBQ ribs. You can also enjoy live music and a campfire outside.

Budget-Friendly Tips

The Salt River Hiking Trail can be enjoyed on a budget with these tips:

1. Bring Your Own Food and Drinks

Bring your own food and drinks to save money on dining out. You can pack a picnic and enjoy it by the river.

2. Go Camping

Camping is a budget-friendly way to enjoy the hiking trail. There are several campgrounds in the area that offer affordable rates.

3. Take Advantage of Free Activities

There are several free activities in the area, such as hiking and swimming in the river. You can also explore the Goldfield Ghost Town for free.

Outdoor Adventures

The Salt River Hiking Trail offers a variety of outdoor adventures:

1. Rafting and Kayaking

The Salt River is a popular spot for rafting and kayaking. You can rent equipment and take a guided tour or go on your own.

2. Horseback Riding

You can take a guided horseback riding tour and explore the trails around the Salt River.

3. Hiking and Biking

The hiking trail offers several hiking and biking trails that vary in difficulty and distance.

Historical Landmarks

The Salt River Hiking Trail is rich in history and offers several historical landmarks:

1. The Roosevelt Dam

The Roosevelt Dam is a historic dam that was built in 1911 and is still in operation today. You can take a tour of the dam and learn about its history.

2. The Apache Trail Historic Road

The Apache Trail Historic Road is a scenic drive that was built in the early 1900s and offers stunning views of the mountains and desert.

3. The Goldfield Ghost Town

The Goldfield Ghost Town is a restored 1890s mining town that offers a glimpse into Arizona’s Wild West history.

Family-Friendly Activities

The Salt River Hiking Trail has several family-friendly activities:

1. The Salt River Tubing

The Salt River Tubing is a popular activity for families. You can rent a tube and float down the river.

2. The Arizona Renaissance Festival

The Arizona Renaissance Festival is held annually near the hiking trail and offers a variety of family-friendly activities like jousting and medieval games.

3. The Phoenix Zoo

The Phoenix Zoo is located near the hiking trail and is a great place to take kids. You can see a variety of animals and enjoy the playgrounds and picnic areas.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

The Salt River Hiking Trail has some off-the-beaten-path experiences:

1. The Lower Salt River Wildlife Area

The Lower Salt River Wildlife Area is a secluded area that offers stunning desert landscapes and wildlife. You can hike, birdwatch, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

2. The Apache Junction Farmers Market

The Apache Junction Farmers Market is a local market that offers fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products. It’s a great place to explore and support local businesses.

3. The Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park

The Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park is a hidden gem that features a variety of plants from around the world. You can explore the gardens and trails and learn about the different plant species.

Natural Wonders

The Salt River Hiking Trail is home to several natural wonders:

1. The Salt River Canyon

The Salt River Canyon is a stunning natural wonder that offers breathtaking views of the river and surrounding mountains.

2. The Tonto Natural Bridge

The Tonto Natural Bridge is a natural bridge that is 183 feet high and 400 feet long. It’s a great place to explore and take in the beauty of the desert.

3. The Superstition Mountains

The Superstition Mountains are a range of mountains that offer stunning views and hiking trails. You can explore the trails and learn about the history of the area.