Gila Box RNCA
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Gila Box Riparian-National Conservation Area, located about 15 miles northeast of Safford, AZ, straddles the Gila River for many miles. A dirt road follows the rim of the river canyon, offering beautiful views of the ribbon of green as it meanders and cuts through the high desert plains.

River rafting, birding, camping and picnicking are popular activities in the Gila Box.

 
The high plains above the Gila River are full of blooming brittlebush, ocotillo, and cacti
 
Newly leafing cottonwoods follow the river and form a ribbon of green
 
Spring has sprung in the Gila Box
 
One of many scenic overlooks along the rim road
 
This is still open range and cattle country
 
The Gila River is a popular for rafting and kayaking
 
The hills above the canyon are full of ocotillo and prickly pear
 
Literal river of green
 
 
The Serna cabin, named for one of the canyon's earliest settlers, has been restored
 
Apricot mallow and hedge hog blooms
 
YIKES!!~~~ a deadly western diamondback crosses our path. This is the most venomous of the rattlers and causes the most deaths.
 
The tell-tale black and white banding of its tail
 
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