Walnut Canyon (Wells #57) is another trail Beth and I haven't been on in awhile. Temperatures should be in the low to mid 90's, so it's a good time to re-visit the area.
The trail is a loop trail that skirts the White Canyon Wilderness Area on the north and the Gila River to the south. The trail head is located a few miles south of Superior, on Hwy 177 and Battle Axe Road.
The Walnut Canyon trail is very scenic. It's winding and rutted in spots, with some moderate climbs and descents tossed into the mix. The trail is also narrow in a few places and it runs in a very sandy wash parallel with the Gila River for a few hundred feet or so.
The trail is rated "moderate" and is suitable for a stock height Liberty with skids, good A/T tires and tow hooks. Total trail mileage is 20 miles.
NOTE: A State Trust Land Permit is required for this trip. The southern leg of the trail runs through State Trust Land. Permits are $15.00 for individuals, or $20.00 for families. They are valid for 1 year. There's a big fine if you're caught on State Trust Land without a permit.
If you need to purchase a permit, you can get one at:
AZ State Land Dept
1616 W. Adams St
Phoenix, AZ 85007
or
Follow this link to print a form and apply for a permit by mail (allow 3-6 days for them to process it):
http://www.land.state.az.us/programs/na ... permit.htm
Bring a camera, your lunch and plenty of water for a fun day exploring a scenic part of Arizona that's close to home.
When: Sep 27 '09
Meet: 0830
Depart: 0900
Where: Shell Station (NW corner of US 60 and Mountainbrook Road in Gold Canyon)
Length: 5~6 hours
Who's going:
AZKJ +1