Agua Fria National Monument – Badger Springs

Right off Interstate-17 (exit 256) is one of two entrances to Agua Fria National Monument. Badger Springs Rd is nothing more than a dirt road that brings you into the border of the monument about 1 mile. After that you are left with a trail that will bring you to the Agua Fria River.

So far it has been a very quiet area. Although I can see the interstate, the traffic noise is barely noticed. One other vehicle was already here when I pulled in; some hikers who left an hour later. There is a pit-toilet here which is always a nice option over using my porta-potty in the van. The sign says you are allowed to camp here, for free, for up to 14 days. Although I doubt I will stay beyond the one night, it is a nice option to have.

I took the time to hike the 3/4 mile or so to the river. This trail reminded me of a small version of the Negro Bill Canyon trail in Utah. The “trail” is actually the wash itself. At times you I was walking on moist sand, so the wash is clearly in use at certain times of the year.  After a short hike the trail does open up to the river, which oddly enough was near fully frozen over, a sign of how cold it has been the past few nights. In the rocks just above the trail were numerous petroglyphs.