A Guide to the Wonders of SE Arizona and SW New Mexico
-or- Things to Do Within 100 Miles of Duncan
Select an activity from the list below and scroll down to see the results:
List - Swimming
Blue River Complex (AZ-NM)
Of the total 400,000-acre Blue River watershed, 99% is managed by the U.S. Forest Service for the public. Half of the watershed is a designated Primitive Area.
[ See their website ]
Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area (AZ)
Hot springs, river rafting, birdwatching, and miles of trails make this accessible National Conservation Area popular but rarely crowded. Bonita Creek wildlife viewing area is accessible and has numerous interpretive displays and shade shelters.
[ See their website ]
Gila Lower Box Canyon Wilderness Study Area (NM)
Managed as a biological Area of Critical Environment Concern by the Bureau of Land Management. Remote and lovely.
[ See their website ]
Red Rock Wildlife Area (NM)
Very remote wildlife viewing area on the Gila River, and a refuge for desert bighorn sheep. Bicyclers are allowed on some roads.
[ See their website ]
Roper Lake State Park (AZ)
Beautiful man-made lake of 30 surface acres, a boat ramp, natural stone hot tub, a swimming beach, a day use island with picnic tables and grills, and five miles of hiking trails. Boats are limited to small electric motors, so it’s great for a sail board or canoe.
[ See their website ]
San Francisco (“Frisco”) River (AZ)
An easy drive out of historic Clifton, AZ, with mountain vistas and two public river access points (they’re not marked so ask us). Easy floating after monsoon season with beautiful views and few if any people. Big Horn sheep may make an appearance.
[ See their website ]
Trail of the Mountain Spirits Scenic Byway (NM)
Views of old volcanic mountain ranges and the wild, undammed Gila River, abundant wildlife including 337 species of birds, and the presence of seven of the eight distinct ecological zones.
[ See their website ]
Village of Virden (NM)
Take the 26-mile loop from Duncan and back, or turn off and continue on into New Mexico. This is a hidden agricultural paradise along the Gila River. The ruins of the old Mexican settlement of San Antonio are there. There is excellent bird-watching at the Virden Bridge. Nelda’s Quilt Shop is open most afternoons. Buy fresh produce in season at a roadside stand. No public facilities.
