Arcadia

The Arcadia Trail is a nearly ten-mile out-and-back hike near Safford and Willcox, Arizona. You can begin this hike from the Arcadia campground on Mount Graham, and it takes you up to the Shannon campground. Alternatively, if you start this hike from the Shannon campground, it will be a mostly downward trek back to the Arcadia campground. This hike will take you around six hours to complete, so be sure to reserve a whole day for it. Your dog can accompany you on the trail and in the campgrounds, but they must remain on a leash no longer than six feet.

The Arcadia Trail is rated as moderately difficult, and it's lightly trafficked and well-maintained. One of the best features on this hike is all the wildflowers along the way, as well as plenty of other plant species you and your pooch can stop and sniff.

During your hike, you'll see signs that point you to Heliograph Peak. You can choose to add this one-mile excursion to your hike and you'll be rewarded with astounding views of southeastern Arizona.

There are some level spots along the trail where you can pitch a tent if you'd like to set up camp somewhere other than the Arcadia or Shannon campgrounds. There's no water along the trail, however, so be sure to bring plenty of your own. Don't forget doggie bags, too, and always clean up after your pet to keep the trail in excellent condition. You'll find restrooms at the campsites, but there aren't any along the trail. 

The diverse plant habitat of tall Ponderosa pine trees, Gambel oaks, and Arizona walnuts make this trail a prime spot for bird-watching. Be sure to bring a pair of binoculars on your hike to help you spot as many birds as possible. Visitors have also spotted wild turkeys and a variety of other wildlife.

The Arcadia Trail is a stunning trek you can enjoy with your dog, and if the two of you like to camp as well, it's the pawfect place to spend a weekend together!