The Boulder Canyon Trail runs 7.6 miles south from the Canyon Lake Trailhead to the Dutchmans Trail in the Superstition Wilderness. This challenging trail negotiates miles of rugged canyon deep into the backcountry.

A hiker navigates rough terrain in lower Boulder Canyon

Canyon Lake is one of 4 main reservoirs formed by the damming of the Salt River

The Boulder Canyon Trail is not recommended for horses due to loose rocks and flash floods

Saguaros generally bud in April, bloom in May and produce fruit in June

Upper Boulder Canyon holds large pools of water during the winter months

Looking down on Boulder Canyon near the trail's high point at 2,349'

The Boulder Canyon Trail opens up near its junction with the Second Water Trail

Despite modest grades, canyon travel is slow over boulders and slick, polished rocks

The trail drops 485' in just under a mile to reach La Barge Creek Canyon

Potholes, water-filled depressions in eroded bedrock, are critical for desert wildlife

Looking back at Battleship Mountain from upper Boulder Canyon

The trail weaves through brushy wash banks on reasonably well-defined paths

Prickly Pear Cacti produce edible fruits that can be made into jellies and candy

Sunset over the Boulder Recreation Area at the Canyon Lake Trailhead

Saguaro ribs are used for harvesting poles called kukuipad in the O'odham language