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Tan, buff, and predominantly red-rock cliffs mark the edge of the Colorado Plateau across this Wilderness, just east of Sycamore Canyon Wilderness. Here the high mesas of Secret Mountain and Wilson Mountain jut out into the lower country, and outstanding canyons as deep as 1,500 feet drain into beautiful Oak Creek and the Verde River. The high rims are rather cool and moist compared with the lower desertland, and a wide variety of vegetation supports plentiful wildlife, including elk, mule deer, white-tailed deer, javelinas, coyotes, rabbits, mountain lions, and black bears. A close look at the canyon walls may reveal ancient rock art and long-abandoned cliff dwellings. Although this is one of Arizona's most accessible Wildernesses, you can still find solitude here, largely due to the deep canyons, the many hidden grottoes, and the dense riparian vegetation. The rough terrain prevents trails from crossing the entire area. The Secret Canyon Trail meanders delightfully for 4.2 miles along Secret Canyon as it climbs Secret Mountain. The Devil's Bridge Trail leads nine-tenths of a mile to a natural red sandstone bridge.
Maps
Digital and paper maps are critical tools for wilderness visitors. Online maps can help you plan and prepare for your visit ahead of time. You can also carry digital maps with you on your GPS unit or other handheld GPS device. Having a paper map with you in the backcountry, as well as solid orienteering skills, however, ensures that you can still route-find in the event that your electronic device fails.
Online Maps
Printed Maps
Rules & Regulations
Motorized equipment and equipment used for mechanical transport is generally prohibited in all wilderness areas.
This includes the use of motor vehicles, motorboats, motorized equipment, bicycles, hang gliders, wagons, carts, portage wheels, and the landing of aircraft including helicopters.
Wilderness-Specific Regulations
Learn more about
why regulations may be necessary in wilderness.
Applicable Wilderness Law(s)
Want to Volunteer for Wilderness?
People who volunteer their time to steward our wilderness areas are an essential part of wilderness management. Contact the following groups to inquire about volunteer opportunities. Groups are listed alphabetically by the state(s) in which the wilderness is located.