This day-use area is located along Bonita Creek within the Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area (RNCA) with picnic tables and grills.

 

The Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area (RNCA) is about an hour northeast of Safford. The Lee Trail area provides a quiet retreat for a picnic and offers excellent wildlife-viewing opportunities.

 

From Safford, travel approximately five miles east on U.S. Highway 70 to the town of Solomon and turn left onto Sanchez Road. Travel north for eight miles, crossing the bridge at the Gila River, to a Gila Box RNCA sign. Turn left onto that dirt road. Travel another 3.8 miles and take the left fork onto the West Bonita Rim Road. Follow the signs to the Lee Trail Picnic Area. A high-clearance, four-wheel drive is recommended for the steep hill during the last part of the drive.

Picnicking, hiking, wildlife viewing

Restroom, picnic tables, grills

Day use only; no fees

No open fires; use grills

 

A four-wheel-drive, high-clearance vehicle is recommended; the hill leading down to the site is steep and sometimes difficult to travel. The restroom at the picnic area is wheelchair accessible.

Dispersed camping is allowed on public lands; campers should choose previously disturbed sites to reduce impacts. The nearest developed campsite is at Riverview Campground. Safford and Thatcher offer a variety of lodging options including motels and campgrounds.

 

Gasoline, food and supplies can also be found in Safford and Thatcher.

No first aid available on site. Dial 911 for emergencies; cell phone coverage is limited in some areas, so you may have to seek higher ground to reach cell service. The nearest medical facility is the Mt. Graham Regional Medical Center in Safford.

Bonita Creek is a great birding area (birding checklist). Also look for bighorn sheep and evidence of the many beavers that live along the creek. A watchable wildlife viewing area is located at the southern end of the creek.