Turkey Creek Cliff Dwelling Trail | Arizona
Nestled in the northern foothills of the Galiuro Mountains of southeastern Arizona lies Turkey Creek, a small riparian canyon that flows into Aravaipa Creek. Lined with large sycamore, Arizona walnut, and Arizona white oak trees, this narrow canyon provides a quiet retreat for picnicking and camping. The creek only intermittently flows with water depending on precipitation and snowfall.
Colorful birds, as well as occasional deer, javelina, or even coatimundi, can be seen on early morning walks along the dirt road. A short trail leads to a prehistoric cliff dwelling; remnants of 120 years of homesteading and ranching are visible in the canyon. Due to its rich natural and cultural resources, part of Turkey Creek has been identified as an Area of Critical Environmental Concern by the Bureau of Land Management.
The Turkey Creek cliff dwelling is one of the most intact structures of its kind in southeastern Arizona. It was probably occupied for a few months each year by prehistoric farmers around 1300 A.D. These people, of the Salado culture, probably collected plants along Turkey Creek, grew corn, and hunted wild animals. Salado farmers disappeared suddenly around 1450 A.D.
Numerous small pull-outs along the three-mile length of the canyon are perfect for primitive camping. Day hiking is easy along the canyon bottom, a jumping off point to the east entrance of Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness.
Maps and information about the wilderness area are available at the BLM ranger station in Klondyke, AZ. A restroom and general information are available at the Aravaipa Canyon East Trailhead and the nearest developed campsites are located at Fourmile Canyon Campground, also in Klondyke, AZ.
Hours and Seasons
Turkey Creek is open all year.
Features and Services
- Access and Parking: Access to Turkey Creek is via a dirt road that is partially maintained by Graham County. Conditions vary with seasonal precipitation and usually require high-clearance vehicles and all-wheel drive at a minimum. Vegetation and overhanging tree limbs limit most large trailers and RVs, and are not recommended.
- Drinking Water: No potable drinking water is available.
- Toilets: No restrooms in Turkey Creek.
- Cell Phone and Internet: No reliable phone or internet service. There is no public internet or Wi-Fi.
- Pets: Pets must be under owner’s physical control at all times. Service dogs are legally permitted anywhere that visitors can go.
- Nearby Attractions and Amenities: BLM Klondyke Ranger Station, Fourmile Canyon Campground, Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness, North Santa Teresa Wilderness, Klondyke Horsehead Lodge, Klondyke Store
Safety and Conditions
You are responsible for your own safety. Call 911 to contact local law enforcement, obtain emergency services, or report a fire. While enjoying your visit, keep in mind that there is no first aid available on-site.
Expect potential hazards such as venomous reptiles and invertebrates, extreme heat or cold, and flash floods. Be prepared for changes in weather and stay informed on weather warning alerts. Make sure you have the appropriate gear, food and water.
Respect and Protect
The area is home to many species of wildlife. Please remember to practice outdoor ethics and recreate responsibly. Help us protect this unique environment by leaving no trace during your visit.
Check for fire restrictions before your visit. Using exploding targets, fireworks, sky lanterns, tracer ammunition and other incendiary devices is prohibited on BLM-managed public land in Arizona.
Report crimes to resources including vandalism, dumping and suspicious activity at 1-800-637-9152.
Accessibility Description (ABA/ADA)
Because the primary purpose of this site is to provide a primitive experience within an undeveloped natural setting, the site may present challenges to accessibility.
No accessibility improvements exist in Turkey Creek. Although a primitive road and dispersed camp sites exist, they are unimproved, uneven, and rocky. Visitors should come prepared with mobility devices suitable for off-road or all-terrain travel.
Contact Us
Activities
Addresses
Geographic Coordinates
Directions
To reach Turkey Creek, drive 15 miles northwest of Safford on Highway 70. Turn west on Aravaipa-Klondyke Road and go approximately 40 miles, passing through the town of Klondyke, to the Aravaipa Canyon trailhead parking lot. From there, continue on the road until it turns south, which is the start of Turkey Creek.
Access to Turkey Creek is via a dirt road that is partially maintained by Graham County. Conditions vary with seasonal precipitation and may require high-clearance vehicles and sometimes four-wheel drive.
Fees
A permit is needed to access Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness. Reservations can be made at Recreation.gov and the recreation fee is $5 per person per day. There is also a non-refundable $6.00 reservation fee for every permit transaction. See website for additional permit policy information.
Commercial, competitive, and large organized group events require a special recreation permit. Contact the Safford Field Office for more information about special recreation permits.