Devils Chasm day hike, Sierra Ancha Wilderness area, Arizona
SUMMARY:
On Easter day 2005, KD and I completed a really cool hike up the Devils Chasm in the Sierra Ancha Wilderness area. This 4-5 hour hike involves a mix of bush-whacking, scrambling and route finding up a steep canyon to arrive at the final destination, a very well preserved Salado Indian ruin.
ACCESS:
Access to this hike involves a rather long drive on the dirt Cherry Creek road (Forest Road 203). The final few miles of the drive are very rough and involve fording Cherry Creek, which at the time of our visit in late March was deep enough to be bumper height on my 4wd Toyota Tacoma. During the summer months, or during a drier winter, Cherry Creek would likely be a non-event. Regardless of the height of Cherry Creek, the road beyond the ford requires high-clearance.
ROUTE:
This hike starts at an unofficial trailhead on the east side of the Sierra Ancha Wilderness area and follows the bottom of Devils Chasm up stream. There is no established trail in the canyon, but in places there is a path and rock cairns left by previous visitors. Along the way you will encounter a few minor bouldering problems in order to negotiate large choke stones and pour-offs. A well worn and very steep trail on the right side of the canyon leads essentially straight up the north side of the canyon. The trail is steep and loose so use caution ascending and decending. Keep your eyes on the base of the cliff above you as you climb and the Salado Ruin will soon come into sight. The ruins are quite impressive with evidence of multiple stories and a number of rooms.
MORE INFO: Todds Hiking Guide has very detailed writeup of this hike with full directions to the trailhead and of the hiking route. I recommend you consult his page before setting out.
