- Region
- AZ, USA
- Country
- United States
- Best for
- hiking
- Best season
- Spring, Summer
- Permits
- Ordinary visits require no permits or pass…
- Managed by
- Bureau of Land Management, Safford Field Office
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Peloncillo Mountains Wilderness trip tools
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Photos of Peloncillo Mountains Wilderness
How to get there
The wilderness is nine miles northeast of San Simon, Arizona. This is a location description, not a driving distance or a verified road approach. Contact the BLM Safford Field Office at (928) 348-4400 or blm_az_sfoweb@blm.gov to confirm a legal approach and land ownership along it. The office address, 711 S. 14th Avenue in Safford, is not a wilderness trailhead.
- San Simon
A nearby orientation point: the wilderness lies nine miles northeast of town. No specific trailhead or driving approach is established here; confirm access with the Safford Field Office.
- Butter-field Stage Route
This historic route forms the wilderness’s southern boundary. Treat it as a boundary landmark, not a confirmed public entrance, parking area or drivable approach. Verify access and neighboring land permissions before using it to plan an outing.
Sources: blm.gov · University of Montana / federal agency partners · Wilderness Connect / federal wilderness boundary inventory. Confirm road and trailhead conditions with the managing agency before you leave.
AZ, USA · United States
- Winter Camping
- Skiing
- Desert Hiking
- Canyoneering
- Surfing
- Hiking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Canoeing
Rugged volcanic country on the Arizona–New Mexico border
Peloncillo Mountains Wilderness protects 19,440 acres in southeastern Arizona, within a rugged range that stretches from Mexico to the Gila River. The wilderness lies nine miles northeast of San Simon and spans parts of Graham, Greenlee and Cochise counties. Designated in 1990, it is managed by the Bureau of Land Management’s Safford Field Office. Volcanic upheaval shaped a maze of canyons, with cliffs lining many drainages and higher ground offering broad views. Elevations range from about 4,000 to 6,401 feet. This is a place for challenging wilderness travel and solitude, rather than a trip built around a documented trail itinerary. The historic Butter-field Stage Route forms the southern boundary; its presence does not establish a public trailhead or an authorized approach across neighboring land.
Desert vegetation, wildlife and seasonal conditions
The Peloncillos are high, dry mountains, but their vegetation changes with the terrain. Some drainage bottoms support extensive groves of Emory and Arizona white oak. Elsewhere, mesquite, creosote, catclaw, whitethorn, agave, prickly pear and juniper are part of the desert plant community. Desert bighorn sheep, peregrine falcons and deer inhabit the area; deer also draw some hunters. Give wildlife space and avoid disturbing animals for a closer look. Summer temperatures average between 60 and 97 degrees Fahrenheit, while winter averages run from 27 to 58 degrees. Annual precipitation averages 10.7 inches. Plan water needs conservatively rather than treating a drainage or oak grove as evidence of dependable water. Sun protection and clothing for cold conditions both matter, with seasonal temperatures providing context rather than a forecast for any particular outing.
Access, wilderness rules and trip preparation
Land ownership is an important part of planning a visit: some adjacent parcels are private or State lands, and crossing or using them requires permission. Confirm a legal approach with the Safford Field Office before setting out. Ordinary visits to the wilderness require no permits, passes or fees. Commercial, competitive and large organized group events require a special recreation permit, while recreation on nearby Arizona state trust land requires a State permit. Motorized equipment and mechanical transport, including bicycles, are generally prohibited within designated wilderness. Carry navigation tools suited to a landscape of branching canyons, and choose objectives that leave room to turn back. Use durable surfaces, pack out waste, leave natural and historic objects in place, minimize campfire impacts and keep other visitors’ solitude in mind.
Where on earth
Satellite imagery flying in from a world view to Peloncillo Mountains Wilderness, United States. Use the + / − buttons, or click the map to zoom with your scroll wheel; drag to pan and pinch to zoom on touch.
Coordinates
- Decimal degrees
- 32.3731, -109.0873
- Latitude (DMS)
- 32° 22′ 23.0″ N
- Longitude (DMS)
- 109° 5′ 14.4″ W
Coordinates are an access-point reference for Peloncillo Mountains Wilderness, not a route. Carry a paper map and confirm trailhead or put-in access with the managing agency before you go.
Topic summary
Ragged and rugged, the Peloncillo Mountains stretch north from Mexico to the Gila River and New Mexico is just across the border from this wilderness. The historic Butter-field Stage Route forms the southern...
Key takeaways
- Region: AZ, USA
- Country: United States
- Good for: hiking
- Coordinates: 32.373, -109.087
Intended uses
hiking
Keep planning
Popular pursuits at Peloncillo Mountains Wilderness
- Winter Camping
Cold-season travel and camp craft; layering matters more than mileage.
- Skiing
Ski-touring access when the road closes for the season.
- Desert Hiking
Water carries and heat management drive the plan.
- Canyoneering
Narrows, downclimbs, and flash-flood timing.
- Surfing
Swell windows and access from camp.
- Hiking
Day miles on marked trail, with route notes and trail links below.
Animals around Peloncillo Mountains Wilderness
Rugged volcanic country on the Arizona–New Mexico border
Peloncillo Mountains Wilderness protects 19,440 acres in southeastern Arizona, within a rugged range that stretches from Mexico to the Gila River. The wilderness lies nine miles northeast of San Simon and spans parts of Graham, Greenlee and Cochise counties. Designated in 1990, it is managed by the Bureau of Land Management’s Safford Field Office. Volcanic upheaval shaped a maze of canyons, with cliffs lining many drainages and higher ground offering broad views. Elevations range from about 4,000 to 6,401 feet. This is a place for challenging wilderness travel and solitude, rather than a trip built around a documented trail itinerary. The historic Butter-field Stage Route forms the southern boundary; its presence does not establish a public trailhead or an authorized approach across neighboring land.
Desert vegetation, wildlife and seasonal conditions
The Peloncillos are high, dry mountains, but their vegetation changes with the terrain. Some drainage bottoms support extensive groves of Emory and Arizona white oak. Elsewhere, mesquite, creosote, catclaw, whitethorn, agave, prickly pear and juniper are part of the desert plant community. Desert bighorn sheep, peregrine falcons and deer inhabit the area; deer also draw some hunters. Give wildlife space and avoid disturbing animals for a closer look. Summer temperatures average between 60 and 97 degrees Fahrenheit, while winter averages run from 27 to 58 degrees. Annual precipitation averages 10.7 inches. Plan water needs conservatively rather than treating a drainage or oak grove as evidence of dependable water. Sun protection and clothing for cold conditions both matter, with seasonal temperatures providing context rather than a forecast for any particular outing.
Access, wilderness rules and trip preparation
Land ownership is an important part of planning a visit: some adjacent parcels are private or State lands, and crossing or using them requires permission. Confirm a legal approach with the Safford Field Office before setting out. Ordinary visits to the wilderness require no permits, passes or fees. Commercial, competitive and large organized group events require a special recreation permit, while recreation on nearby Arizona state trust land requires a State permit. Motorized equipment and mechanical transport, including bicycles, are generally prohibited within designated wilderness. Carry navigation tools suited to a landscape of branching canyons, and choose objectives that leave room to turn back. Use durable surfaces, pack out waste, leave natural and historic objects in place, minimize campfire impacts and keep other visitors’ solitude in mind.
Route options
- Peloncillo Mountains canyons
Canyon exploration is a terrain-based trip option, not a documented named trail. The wilderness contains branching canyons, many lined with cliffs, and some drainage bottoms hold Emory and Arizona white oak groves. Confirm a legal starting point and assess navigation and passage before committing to an itinerary.
- Peloncillo Mountains higher ground
An outing toward higher ground offers views across the rugged range. This is a general objective rather than an established summit route; no specific ascent, trailhead or route length is identified. Choose an objective only after reviewing terrain and confirming access.
Sample itineraries
- Canyon day walk · 1 day
After confirming legal access with the Safford Field Office, plan a conservative out-and-back among the Peloncillo Mountains' canyons. Look for oak groves along drainage bottoms. Choose a turnaround that leaves time to retrace the canyon maze; this is a suggested outing, not a documented trail.
- Rugged-country overnight · 2 days
Plan a self-supported overnight combining canyon exploration with higher-ground views where terrain allows. Confirm access and camping regulations before departure, carry planned water needs, and camp on durable surfaces. Keep the second day flexible for the return through rugged terrain rather than committing to an unverified loop.
Seasonal conditions
Spring
Spring; check the forecast before departure
Plan for this high, dry landscape rather than assuming mild conditions. Elevations range from about 4,000 to 6,401 feet. Carry water and adaptable layers, and choose objectives around the current forecast.
Summer
Summer
Summer temperatures average from 60 to 97°F. Keep outings conservative in hot weather, carry sufficient water, and pack sun protection. Annual precipitation averages only 10.7 inches; do not assume drainage bottoms provide drinking water.
Fall
Fall; check the forecast before departure
Let current temperatures guide trip length and clothing. Rugged canyons and elevation changes still require conservative pacing. The dry landscape calls for a water plan regardless of season.
Winter
Winter
Winter temperatures average between 27 and 58°F. Prepare for below-freezing conditions with insulating layers and suitable overnight equipment. Keep plans flexible around the forecast and the demands of rugged terrain.
| Season | Window | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Spring; check the forecast before departure | Plan for this high, dry landscape rather than assuming mild conditions. Elevations range from about 4,000 to 6,401 feet. Carry water and adaptable layers, and choose objectives around the current forecast. |
| Summer | Summer | Summer temperatures average from 60 to 97°F. Keep outings conservative in hot weather, carry sufficient water, and pack sun protection. Annual precipitation averages only 10.7 inches; do not assume drainage bottoms provide drinking water. |
| Fall | Fall; check the forecast before departure | Let current temperatures guide trip length and clothing. Rugged canyons and elevation changes still require conservative pacing. The dry landscape calls for a water plan regardless of season. |
| Winter | Winter | Winter temperatures average between 27 and 58°F. Prepare for below-freezing conditions with insulating layers and suitable overnight equipment. Keep plans flexible around the forecast and the demands of rugged terrain. |
Permits, fees & closures
Ordinary visits require no permits or passes. Commercial, competitive, and large organized group events require a special recreation permit; contact the Safford Field Office. Recreation on nearby state trust land requires a State of Arizona permit.
Fees: Visiting the wilderness is free.
Official source: Peloncillo Mountains Wilderness - Arizona · Verified November 3, 2026
Hazards & regulations
- The maze of canyons can complicate navigation. Carry a map and compass, track your route, and leave time to retrace it.
- Rugged terrain and canyon cliffs demand careful footing and conservative route choices. Avoid committing to terrain without a safe return.
- Summer temperatures average up to 97°F in this dry landscape. Carry sufficient water and reduce exertion in hot conditions.
- Winter temperatures average down to 27°F. Carry insulation and prepare for below-freezing conditions.
- Catclaw, whitethorn, agave, and prickly pear warrant protective clothing and careful movement through vegetation.
What to pack for Peloncillo Mountains Wilderness
- Topographic map showing wilderness and landownership boundaries
- Compass and offline navigation
- Access plan confirmed with the Safford Field Office
- Water sufficient for the planned outing and a contingency
- Water-carrying capacity matched to trip length
- Sun hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses
- Sturdy footwear
- Long trousers for thorny vegetation
- Insulating layers suited to the forecast
- First-aid kit and emergency shelter
- Shelter and sleep system suited to forecast temperatures
- Waste bags and a human-waste disposal plan
- Food storage that prevents wildlife access
Peloncillo Mountains Wilderness FAQ
- Where is Peloncillo Mountains Wilderness?
- The 19,440-acre wilderness lies 9 miles northeast of San Simon, Arizona, in Graham, Greenlee, and Cochise counties. It occupies part of the rugged Peloncillo Range, which stretches from Mexico to the Gila River.
- How should access be planned?
- Contact the BLM Safford Field Office at (928) 348-4400 to confirm an appropriate approach. Some adjacent lands are private or State lands; do not cross or use them without permission. An interior wilderness map point is not a trailhead, campsite, or access point.
- Are bicycles or motor vehicles allowed?
- Motorized equipment and mechanical transport are generally prohibited in federal wilderness. This includes motor vehicles, OHVs, bicycles, wagons, and carts. Contact the managing agency for details about applicable regulations.
- What terrain and vegetation should visitors expect?
- Expect rugged volcanic mountains cut by a maze of canyons, many lined with cliffs. Some drainage bottoms contain Emory and Arizona white oak groves. Elsewhere, mesquite, creosote, thorny shrubs, agave, prickly pear, and juniper characterize the high, dry landscape.
- Where is the historic Butter-field Stage Route?
- The historic Butter-field Stage Route forms the wilderness's southern boundary. Confirm legal access before planning an outing around it; its boundary location does not establish a usable public approach.
- How can visitors minimize their impact?
- Travel and camp on durable surfaces, dispose of waste properly, leave natural and historic objects in place, and minimize campfire impacts. Respect wildlife and other visitors. Confirm current local regulations with the Safford Field Office before departure.