Overview
The Salome Wilderness in the western Tonto National Forest is among the most remote hiking destinations in the Phoenix backcountry. The wilderness sees a fraction of the traffic on more accessible routes, filtered by a rough access road and the absence of developed facilities. Salome Creek cuts through narrow canyon terrain, providing perennial water and slot canyon sections that reward the effort of getting here.
This 10-mile round-trip hike is rated moderate-hard due to the elevation gain, creek crossings, and navigation requirements. Trail markings exist but are less frequent than on maintained USFS routes; a downloaded offline topo map and basic route-finding skill are part of the necessary preparation. The reward is genuine solitude in canyon terrain that delivers the wild character of the Tonto's lower-elevation wilderness without the crowds.
Heat applies here as throughout the Tonto's lower desert terrain. October through April is the practical season. Many hikers carry 2-3 liters of water supplemented by treated creek water; individual needs vary. The canyon provides more shade than open desert routes, extending the comfortable season somewhat. Flash flooding in the canyon during monsoon season (July through September) is a genuine hazard; this route is not recommended in that season.
The Route
Miles 0 to 2.0: From the primitive trailhead, the route drops into the Salome Creek drainage through typical lower desert vegetation: saguaro, palo verde, mesquite in the canyon bottom. The creek comes into view and hearing as the trail descends. Early creek crossings in the lower canyon are straightforward in dry season.
Miles 2.0 to 5.0: The canyon narrows progressively as the route moves upstream. Slot canyon sections appear, with smooth water-polished walls and natural pools. The creek crossings become more frequent. The wilderness character intensifies as the canyon walls rise. Navigation follows the creek drainage with occasional trail markings.
Miles 5.0 to 10.0 (return): Retrace the route. The return downstream is faster. Plan for possible wet boots on creek crossings.
When to Visit
October through April. The canyon shade makes this route more forgiving than open desert hikes in the shoulder seasons. Spring (March through April) brings desert wildflowers and peak creek flow from winter rains.
Avoid monsoon season (July through September) for this canyon route due to flash flood risk. Even if the sky is clear at the trailhead, storms elsewhere in the drainage can send floods down without warning.
What to Bring
- Water: many hikers carry 2-3 liters; supplement with treated creek water; individual needs vary
- Water filter or purification tablets
- Creek crossing footwear or willingness to get wet (or extra dry socks)
- Detailed topo map and GPS with offline maps
- First aid kit
- Tonto Pass ($8/day as of 2026) — required even at remote trailheads
Review Leave No Trace 7 principles for wilderness area conduct, especially around the perennial creek.
Practical Details
Tonto Pass required as of 2026. No wilderness permit needed. The access road (FR 60) requires high-clearance and can be impassable when wet. Verify current road conditions before heading out.
Cell service is absent. A personal locator beacon or satellite communicator is advisable for this remote location.
Getting There
From Globe: Head west on US-60 to the Forest Road 60 junction north of Claypool. Follow FR 60 north approximately 20 miles to the trailhead area. The road is rough dirt requiring high-clearance.
From Payson: Head south on AZ-188 to the Young Road junction, then follow local roads to FR 60. This approach requires current local knowledge of road conditions; verify with the Tonto Basin Ranger District before attempting. See checking conditions before you go for ranger district contacts.