Gold Strike Hot Springs Trail

It is also recommended you leave dogs at home. For more information, please see https://www.nps.gov/lake/learn/news/goldstrike-canyon-arizona-hot-spring-trails-summer-closure-dates.htm A strenuous hike through a wonderful canyon to some hot springs pools. This hike is one of a kind. There are 8 fixed ropes if you go all the way to the river. Some are difficult - especially when coming back up. At the 1.5 mile point of the hike you come to the first obstacle - a large boulder with what looks like a nasty drop off. If you look at the rock wall to your right, you'll see some steps. There is a strap here to help you down the steps. Coming back, you really don't need the strap although it will give those who want some security an aid to come back up. A short distance after this, the wash opens into its widest of the hike, and several washes come together. Keep walking down and you'll come to the next rope. This goes down the left side of the rock wall and isn't too difficult to maneuver. You just need to use the rope as intended and walk down backwards while moving down the rope. There is one other slight work around in this area. There's a dry fall that some slide down. There is a blue arrow painted on the rocks to the left of the chute showing you how to walk around and down this dry fall. After you have cleared these obstacles, you arrive at what once was the Upper Goldstrike Hot Springs pools. Sadly, most have dried up. There are a few pools farther down that still have water, but you'll see the remnants of the pools that no longer have any source for filling. The rest has 5 fixed ropes, the last being a bit difficult, especially when you're coming back and you have those wet boots. This trail can be too strenuous for dogs.