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Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area
4.7 ★★★★★ 146 Google reviews · Running trail in Safford, Arizona · Open 24 hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Open 24 hours
Confirmed from Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Serene river canyon and desert area offering hiking, fishing and camping as well as a quiet atmosphere.
What runners say about Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area
“Running water and pit toilets were clean.”
“The Gila River flows through this beautiful area with outstanding views and opportunities for hiking, camping, day use and natural history pursuits.”
The pictures do not do this gorgeous place justice. Absolutely breathtaking. Endless things to do & trails to explore, whether on foot, car, or in a 4 wheeler. So glad entry is free (for day hiking). A must go if you're in the area. I only wish I could find more information about the trails & best places to swim.
beautiful place with no people in it - which is my favorite kind of place... my son and I came here on a cold day in early february... short trail to the canyon... great rock formations... clean bathroom, too...
i adore the gila river. protect her please! our 1st time to this specific area. definitely looking forward to going back & exploring more. nice campground, day use area. there's more to see down the road...next time. the river was flowing very fast w spring run off. it was quite & beautiful today. 💚
We went during the week, early May when the daytime temperatures would be no more than 85* . We camped 2 days and had the place to ourselves. Wish it was closer to the water at the campground. Running water and pit toilets were clean. Check the weather!
Trail conditions & character
“The Gila River flows through this beautiful area with outstanding views and opportunities for hiking, camping, day use and natural history pursuits.”
“Easily accessible by small car or minivan up to the wildlife viewing area.”
Plan your run at Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area
The practical stuff
- AccessOpen 24 hours — no gate to beat, so a 5am or a 10pm run both work
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadrestrooms — reported by runners
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websiteblm.gov
- Phone+1 928-348-4400
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
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