The Wilderness Land Trust has
secured a purchase contract for 640 acres in the
heart of Arizona’s Hells
Canyon Wilderness Area. Located near the outskirts
of Phoenix, Hells Canyon is an unspoiled remnant
of the original central Arizona desert landscape.
If The Trust raises funds on time to complete the
transaction the entire 9,900-acre wilderness will
finally be permanently protected public land.
The Wilderness Land Trust Inventory
and Prioritization of Arizona BLM Wilderness Inholdings,
finished in October 2005, ranks this parcel as
the second highest scoring property among all
of Arizona’s wilderness
inholdings. In addition to its typical
wilderness attributes, there are remnants of a
cattle operation dating from the early 20th century,
including artifacts and homestead foundations.
A natural cave on the property includes Native
American pictographs and pottery. The Trust is
delighted to have this opportunity to buy the
property from the current owner, a Phoenix-area
developer.
About Hells Canyon Wilderness Area
Hells Canyon is part of the Hieroglyphic
Mountain Range, named for the prehistoric
rock art that can be seen throughout the area. The
wilderness includes numerous ruggedly
scenic peaks dissected by small, twisting canyons.
The most distinctive feature of the wilderness is
Hells Canyon itself, a deep narrow gorge largely located
within the 640-acre parcel which the
Trust is working to preserve. The tallest peak in
the area is Garfias Mountain (3,381 feet) whose precipitous
300-foot cliff face extends onto the
parcel as well. Giant saguaro, paloverde, barrel cactus,
ocotillo and desert grasses dominate
the area’s
flora. Mule deer, javelina, mountain lion, desert
cottontail rabbits, mourning dove, white-winged
dove, and Gambel’s quail are among the fauna
to be observed. There countless places
ideal for primitive camping. Hells Canyon provides
a convenient escape from crowded Phoenix, a fact
that draws large numbers of visitors.
About Hells Canyon Wilderness Area