Wet Beaver Wilderness

Wet Beaver Wilderness is a protected area in Coconino National Forest featuring deep rocky canyons with reddish sandstone walls and shale layers. A year-round creek cuts through the gorge and creates a ribbon of greenery against the surrounding arid terrain.

Congress established this wilderness through the Arizona Wilderness Act in 1984 to preserve the natural environment. The designation protected the area from future development.

The perennial creek has served as a vital water source for indigenous peoples throughout the region's history. Visitors today can observe how the flowing water creates an oasis of life in the surrounding desert landscape.

The main hiking route follows the creek valley and requires crossing the water several times along the way. Fall and spring offer the most pleasant conditions for exploring the area.

The area contains one of Arizona's few year-round flowing streams in a desert region. This reliable water source allows diverse wildlife including elk, deer, and mountain lions to thrive in an otherwise dry landscape.

Location: Arizona

GPS coordinates: 34.32000,-111.65000

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:43