Canyons are inherently risky. Flash floods occur without notice on sunny days. Technical skills & surrounding topography knowledge required yet does not eliminate risk.
Statistics
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Distance One Way
1.5 miles
Trailhead Elevation
3,168 feet
Elevation Gain
200 feet
Accumulated Gain
266 feet
Kokopelli Seeds
2.39
InterestOff-Trail Hiking, Seasonal Waterfall & Seasonal Creek
unreported if dogs are allowed editedit > ops > dogs to adjust
Off Trail, bushwhacking, scrambling, bouldering, and climbing. This trail offers fabulous views and never ending challenges for a beginner ( non technical) in a narrow, dramatic, canyon changing with each rain.
From the trailhead, Cougar canyon is directly in front of you. bushwhack the contour around the hill to enter Cougar.
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The Sierra Anchas have very limited cell coverage. Let others know where you are. Think medical help or rescue, be prepared to wait. As with any canyoneering be weather alert. There are several points in this canyon where exiting right or left in an emergency is nearly impossible.
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
Strictly 4x4
To canyon trip From Phoenix: Take Hwy 60 (Superstition Freeway) east 75 miles to Globe/Miami. From Globe, take 188 north towards Lake Roosevelt. Turn right on 288 and follow about 2 miles past the Salt River until you reach FR203 which is also signed as Cherry Creek Road. Follow FR203 for about 7.38 miles until you reach Dry Creek. This is approximately where the prominent high voltage transmission lines cross over FR203. Just past Dry Creek will be the junction for FR38 which is marked. at the 1.56 miles along FR38 there is a road that goes off to the right(Coon Creek Ruins), continue straight on FR 38 one mile to the intersection of FR 38 and FR 30. Turn right on FR 38. In a few hundred yards the road goes down to a pronounced wash. Continue about 250 feet to the trailhead on your left. There is room for one or two cars. Cougar canyon is directly in front of you. bushwhack the contour around the hill to enter Cougar.