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The Aravaipa Valley in Arizona reaches its peak of autumn colors from mid-November to early December. The trees along the stream turn golden-orange, creating a combination of the red rocks of the valley and a tranquil oasis.
In most of the United States, autumn reaches its peak in November, butArizona Fall colors are just beginning in the Aravaipa Valley in the south. Travel + Leisure reports that the trees along the creeks in this valley change their hues of gold and orange from mid-November to early December. The gorgeous and spectacular scenery is comparable to Utah’s Zion National Park, a popular autumn viewing destination, and proves that beautiful autumn scenery can be found even in the desert.
Aravaipa Canyon is about a two-hour drive from both Phoenix and Tucson. This vast red canyon hides one of the Southwest’s most spectacular and lesser-known leaf-viewing destinations.
The Aravaipa Creek, which flows year-round, flows through the valley, creating a rare oasis in the desert; The poplar, sycamore, willow and walnut trees along the creek begin to turn gold and orange from mid-November to December. Yellow leaves falling in the wind and few tourists make people feel as if they are in a peaceful place in Zion National Park.
The further you go, the stronger this feeling becomes. The Aravaipa Valley extends for 12 miles, and many daily hikers only hike a few miles before turning back. Some people use multiple modes of transportation to get from one place to another, arranging for transfers at both ends. Others carry backpacks and cover the entire distance, camping along the way depending on road and weather conditions.
No matter which path you choose, you have to wade through knee-deep streams at times, and sometimes you even have to wade some of the way through water as the valley is very narrow and there is no alternative. Waterproof hiking shoes and diving socks are helpful, as are regular trail running shoes. Hiking poles are also essential. The valley floor is uneven and frequent wading in and out of the stream would make the ground slippery.
The valley has a very pleasant climate in late autumn. The highest daytime temperature is only 70 degrees Fahrenheit, and the stream water temperature hovers around 50 degrees.
Peace is another attraction of the Aravaipa Valley. The Bureau of Land Management limits the number of people entering the canyon and issues only 50 permits a day, including 30 permits at the west trailhead and 20 permits at the east trailhead, which are suitable for hiking or camping. Permits are issued 91 days ahead each day and sell out easily during peak seasons such as March, April and autumn. Hikers may stay for three days and two nights, but a permit is required for each consecutive day of stay.
The west trailhead near the small town of Dudleyville is easiest to reach, and can be reached along a 9-mile-long gravel road in good condition. The road to the more remote eastern trailhead is often flooded and requires a high-riding vehicle to pass. But no matter which direction you enter, the valley is expansive, and the autumn mood is now growing stronger.
Summary FAQ
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The peak of autumn foliage here occurs later than in most areas of the United States, and is at its most spectacular from mid-November to early December. The trees along the bay will gradually turn gold and orange, creating a unique late autumn landscape.
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Perennial streams flow through the valley, bringing with it coastal forests such as poplar, sycamore, willow and walnut trees, giving the desert an oasis-like autumnal look, and the atmosphere is similar to that of the tranquil Zion National Park.
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The Bureau of Land Management issues only 50 permits per day, and they often sell out in peak season; The hiking involves crossing water at times, so it is advisable to wear waterproof shoes, diving socks and carry trekking poles. A high riding vehicle may be required on the east side of the road.
