What to See and Do
Hiking and Biking
Six Shooter Canyon Trail
Located in the nearby Tonto National Forest, this trail offers some steep inclines but also provides amazing views of the area.
Length: 13.2 miles
Intensity: Hard
Pinal Mountain Trail
This trail is generally quiet and offers a secluded hike through the beautiful desert landscape.
Length: 4.7 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Haunted Canyon Trail
This gorgeous trail is well-marked and maintained and leads to Tonys Ranch.
Length: 11.5 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Arizona Trail: Passage 15
This lengthy trail in the Tortilla Mountains is excellent for hiking, mountain biking, and backpacking.
Length: 28.1 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Oracle Nature Trail Loop
Located in the nearby Oracle State Park, this trail is perfect for the entire family and is a great way to spot wildlife.
Length: 1.1 miles
Intensity: Easy
Fishing and Boating
Fishing enthusiasts can fish right from either of the recreation sites along the Gila River. Anglers can usually catch warm-water fish such as carp and channel catfish, and flathead catfish and largemouth bass are also common. The river is also popular for floating or rafting.
Climbing
There are several areas near Winkelman and the Gila River that offer excellent rock climbing opportunities. For example, The Homestead is a limestone canyon that offers over 250 single pitch routes in a range of difficulties.
Wildlife Viewing
Wildlife viewing is fantastic all along the Gila River, and visitors can also spot wildlife in the nearby Tonto National Forest, Saguaro National Park, and Oracle State Park. Bighorn sheep, coyotes, bobcats, rabbits, ground squirrels, quails, hawks, eagles, ravens, cactus wrens, mule deer, and even mountain lions can be seen. The area is also home to a range of reptiles including various lizard, snake, toad, and tortoise species.
Picnicking
The Shores and Christmas Recreation Sites, located in the Gila River BLM area, offer great picnicking options. Each site has tables and fire rings. There are also restrooms at each location.
Horseback Riding
Horseback riding is one of the most common activities in the area around the Gila River. Riders can use almost any trail they like in the area, as long as it’s suitable for horses. Newer horse enthusiasts can also take a guided trail ride.