River Walk Trail - Becker Lake Wildlife Area, AZ

This well-maintained trail follows a short section of the Little Colorado River, along which there are many beaver dams. The trail is very flat and smooth, mostly covered in fine-ground black cinders. There are information plaques about wildlife along the route. Short spur trails take you to the river and benches, plus more info signs.


Many locals walk here for daily exercise. The trail is part of the Becker Lake Wildlife Area managed by the Arizona Game and Fish Department. For another short hike, drive over to Becker Lake, where you'll find the one-mile Lakeview Trail loop. Also, along Becker Lake Road, entry into the wildlife area is possible via gates, which are open to the public for foot or bicycle travel.Bird life abounds, especially in summer. Common birds to look for are osprey, bald eagle, northern flicker, American robin, American raven, red-tailed hawk, kestrel, great blue heron, etc. Over the years, I have seen many coyotes, an occasional fox, great horned owls, and mule deer.

It's suitable for mountain biking as well, as part of a longer ride around the area. The entry sign says Foot Path only, but I have been assured by AZG&FD employees that it's approved for bicycles as well.

The main trailhead on US 60 on the north edge of Springerville has a large parking lot, pit toilet, and picnic table shaded by trees. The other trailhead is off Airport Road. It has ample parking and a picnic table shaded by trees, but no toilet.

The Little Colorado River arises from Mount Baldy in the White Mountains, flowing east and then north and then northwest, to its famous confluence in Grand Canyon. It's 340 miles long. Only the upper and lower reaches consistently have flowing water. This section in Springerville is perennial, although it can become very low during drought times.

Human history in the LCR watershed dates back to the Ice Age (Holocene). In this area, known as Round Valley, there was consistently good farming and hunting over the millennia. To see an example of an ancient pueblo, head for the Casa Malpais Museum in Springerville, and they will take you on a tour of the nearby ancient pueblo, Casa Malpais (House of the Badlands). Entry to the archaeological park is only possible with a tour guide, not on your own.

Many hikes and bushwhacks can be done along the Little Colorado in this area, starting at Mount Baldy and going all the way down to Lyman Lake. Some sections have established trails, others do not, but it's all hikeable.

Little Colorado River:
Also see: The Upper Little Colorado River Region 2.3mb PDF
AZG&FD page
Casa Malpais information

2025-12-22 azbackpackr