Posted in Arizona Nature, Swimming Holes November 11, 2022 by Katie Lawrence

Salome Jug Canyon In Arizona Is Filled With Pristine Swimming Holes

Arizona has too many hiking trails to count, but one stands out among them all for its fun factor. Jug Trail #61, or “The Jug,” is located in the Salome Wilderness area and boasts natural waterslides, swimming holes, and even a short rappelling opportunity! Here’s what awaits at the Salome Jug Canyon in Arizona:

Situated in the Sierra Ancha Mountains, just above the deep blue Roosevelt Lake, the Salome Wilderness is an 18,000 acre area of the Tonto National Forest. Salome Creek runs through the region, which serves as a natural water park of sorts for adventurous explorers.

Jug Trail #61 is a 6.5-mile adventure on dry land. You'll enjoy panoramic views of the rugged surroundings, with distant peaks towering high up towards the clouds.

A slot canyon, "The Jug" features several natural slip 'n slides that lead into refreshing pools of water. Eventually, you'll come to a 25-30 foot drop that can only be descending via cliff jumping or rappelling.

Hikers have reported a rappelling rope hanging from the cliff wall, but you can always bring your own gear just to be safe. Be careful on the way down, as there's a waterfall that makes it easy to lose your footing.

Some of the pools are rather deep, and nearly all are extremely cold. A sandy beach located partway through the canyon is perfect for enjoying a snack and getting your energy up before heading back into the trenches.

Due to the inherent risk involved with this hike, it's recommended not to bring children or dogs. In fact, anyone who's not an extremely strong swimmer or is afraid of heights should probably pass up The Jug. Make sure to wear shoes with sufficient grip, as it's easy to lose your footing on the rocks.

If all you want are beautiful views without the hard stuff, there is another option. At the beginning of the trail, when you come to a crossroads, take the right fork to skip ahead to the exit. You'll see the lake in all its pristine glory, a stark contrast to the arid landscape that dominates this neck of the woods.

Remember not to attempt this trail unless you’re an experienced hiker. You’ll need waterproof bags for essential items, and highly consider bringing your own rappel gear. Be careful during monsoon season, as the water level can rise quickly in the various swimming holes at Salome Jug Canyon in Arizona.

Have you ever hiked into Salome Jug Canyon in Arizona? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience hiking The Jug! Check out our previous article for another rappelling adventure: Visit Rappel Arizona, One Of The Most Exciting Aerial Adventures In The State.

Address: A-Cross Rd, Tonto Basin, AZ 85553, USA

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

The OIYS Visitor Center

Salome Jug Canyon in Arizona

November 16, 2022

Sarah M.

What are some other unique hikes in Arizona?

If you’re into adventures like the above excursion at the Salome Jug Canyon, you’ll definitely want to check out these other must-do hikes in Arizona:

Bell Rock Trail: Pretty much everyone in Sedona knows about Bell Rock, and it’s one of the first places many tourists go. Despite being so popular, however, the trail sees most of its traffic during the summer, but it’s beautiful all year-round.
South Rim Trail: It’s hard to top the hiking at the Grand Canyon, and the South Rim Trail truly is one of the best. The 12.7-mile Rim Trail leads to some of the most stunning vistas in the park, and it isn’t nearly as crowded this time of year. If you’ve never seen our state’s most iconic natural wonder blanketed in a world of white, it’s truly bucket list-worthy.
Treasure Loop Trail: Looking for an accessible adventure? This 2.3-mile hike in Apache Junction is a great little adventure for the whole family.
Calloway Trail: If you’re looking to have your very own “Sound of Music” moment, check out the Calloway Trail during the springtime. Calloway Trail at Picacho Peak State Park is under a mile long, but still manages to pack in gorgeous views at every turn. You’ll see flowers in every color of the rainbow, including myriad bright and cheerful poppies lining the path.
Devils Bridge Trail: One of Sedona’s most-loved hikes, the Devils Bridge Trail is 4.2 miles long and rated as moderate, leading to the largest sandstone arch in the area… not to mention panoramic vistas that are second to none!