Overview
This passage begins at the Kelvin Bridge as it crosses the Gila River. Just beyond the north end of the bridge the route turns west onto Centurian Road and follows this through a private home area to new single-track trail. The trail then follows the Gila River for many miles - sometimes rising several hundred feet above and sometimes near river level. It passes through several gates, crosses numerous canyon drainages and occasionally catches a glimpse of The Spine, Walnut Canyon Narrows, Copper Butte, and The Rincon, all to the north.
At just over 15 miles from the beginning the trail turns north, leaving the river and traverses through the canyons. It climbs steadily on new single-track and several short sections of old mining roads. After traversing spectacular ridgelines and winding around numerous side drainages, the trail crosses the boundary of Tonto National Forest and then ends at a gate on an abandoned two-track road.
Gate Policy: If a gate is closed upon arrival, leave it closed after you go through. If it is open, leave it open. Leaving a closed gate open may put cattle in danger. Closing an open gate may cut them off from water. Please be respectful, leave gates as found.
When hiking several trails on a single "hike", log it with a generic name that describes the hike. Then link the trails traveled, check out the example.
WARNING! Hiking and outdoor related sports can be dangerous. Be responsible and prepare for the trip. Study the area you are entering and plan accordingly. Dress for the current and unexpected weather changes. Take plenty of water. Never go alone. Make an itinerary with your plan(s), route(s), destination(s) and expected return time. Give your itinerary to trusted family and/or friends.
Permit $$
None
Directions
Road
FR / Jeep Road - Car possible when dry
To hike From the PHOENIX AREA: Take Hwy 60 to Superior; In Superior take Hwy 177 south for ~15.5mls to MP 152.2; Just before crossing Railroad Tracks turn Right on to Kelvin/Florence Highway and continue for 1.2mls; Just before crossing the Gila River/Bridge, turn Right on unsigned dirt road- East Centurian Lane(not signed as of this posting); Continue driving on this dirt/gravel road for approx .33mls to the "first house" on right side of road; Continue to "just past" the front of this house and note not signed dirt/gravel road to your left; "Do not" pass this house but instead turn LEFT on this not signed dirt road and continue ~straight for approx an additional ~.33mls to the AZT TH Parking on Right side of road(there is no AZT TH Post/Marker as of this writing only a cairn and orange marker tape denoting the AZT trail start); NOTE: As you drive in this above noted last ~.33mls to the TH start, do not take sharp left turn spur dirt road and do not take the next right turn spur road, but continue ~straight on this .33ml drive to the TH and small parking area on right side of road;
page created by Grasshopper on Dec 13 2008 11:31 pm
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