DESTINATION Midnight Canyon - Gila Box RNCA 1 Photoset
2018-05-07 | |
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| Hiking | 8.40 Miles |
550 AEG |
| | Hiking | 8.40 Miles | | | |
| 550 ft AEG | | | | |
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| no partners | | Recent conversation with the Riverview CG hosts convinced me it was time to head up this canyon I've always looked at with curiosity, but had always just put on the "some day" list.
Entrance requires a Gila River crossing and with the water flow low right now and the still cool morning temps, today was a good day to add that check mark. Started from Riverview and although the river flow is low right now, that crossing was still a tad "adventurous"! Made it across, changed into my hiking shoes and after some desert maze fun ..... I entered Midnight.
Wow ..... what a most unexpected canyon delight it was! Incredible formations, narrows, towering walls & geology like I've never seen before. The geodes, chalcedony & fire agate deposits found in many areas had this rockhounder in a state of shock! Hiked in about 2.5 miles before turning back after a side canyon lunch. On the way out, climbed up to check out a big alcove and took a bee sting to the forehead. First bee sting I've received in about 10 years and by the end of the day I had a golf ball in my forehead lol ..... little pumpkin!
After Midnight I hiked a mile up into Rail End Canyon located just to the south for a look. This canyon was more open and not at all as interesting as it's big brother to the north, one & done I believe on Rail End Canyon.
One more Gila River crossing brought me back to Riverview at Noon and with the temps getting warm I called it a day at Gila Box.
This one has most definitely made my yearly rotation list at Gila Box. Wonderful scenic hike, amazing canyon and maybe a little prehistoric gem along the way 
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