Exploring Fall Colors at Cave Creek Canyon: Arizona’s Island in the Sky
- Keith Peters
- Feb 7
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 6
Cave Creek Canyon
Nestled in the rugged Chiricahua Mountains of southeastern Arizona, Cave Creek Canyon is a breathtaking oasis that defies desert expectations. As you travel along Portal Road, you leave behind the arid high desert—its scrubby, sun-washed terrain stretching endlessly—and enter a world transformed: a lush, forested canyon embraced by soaring cliffs. The contrast is so vivid, it feels like stepping into another world.
The Magic of Arizona Fall Foliage
When people think of Arizona, they picture cacti, sand, and sun-scorched vistas. But beyond the stereotypes lies a state rich in ecological diversity, and Cave Creek Canyon is one of its crown jewels for autumn color. Each fall, the canyon bursts into vibrant hues of gold, crimson, and amber, offering a spectacle few would expect in the desert Southwest.
A Convergence of Ecosystems
Cave Creek Canyon sits at a biological crossroads, where four major ecosystems—the Rocky Mountains, Sierra Madre, Chihuahuan Desert, and Sonoran Desert—converge. This rare overlap fosters exceptional biodiversity. Spanning elevations from 5,000 to over 9,000 feet, the canyon supports a lush mix of sycamores, bigtooth maples, cottonwoods, and oaks, which erupt into fiery color each autumn.
Trails and Highlights: Where to See the Colors
Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a casual stroller, Cave Creek Canyon offers scenic trails to experience fall at its finest.
Overlook Trail
A short hike with a big payoff—panoramic views of the canyon's layered cliffs and forested floor, especially dazzling in late October.
South Fork Trail
The South Fork Trail is a must for foliage lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. This gentle trail follows the South Fork of Cave Creek, winding through dense groves of glowing maples and rustling sycamores. It’s also a birding hotspot, with frequent sightings of trogons, jays, and hummingbirds.
Herb Martyr Waterfall
For a shorter, more relaxed outing, visit Herb Martyr Campground. Just below it, an easy trail leads to a small but photogenic waterfall surrounded by vivid autumn leaves. The soothing sound of cascading water adds to the canyon’s serene ambiance.
Wildlife Watching: A Naturalist’s Dream
Cave Creek Canyon isn't just about the foliage—it's also a haven for wildlife. Birders come from across the country to spot over 300 species of birds, including the rare elegant trogon. The South Fork area is especially rewarding, offering close encounters with both resident and migratory species. You might also glimpse deer, coatimundis, or even a black bear along the trails.
Planning Your Visit
Cave Creek Canyon is accessed via Portal, Arizona, about a three-hour drive from Tucson. Here's what you need to know:
Directions
From Tucson: Take I-10 East for 139 miles, turn right onto US-80 for 28 miles, then right again onto Portal Road. Drive 7 miles to reach the visitor center.
From Las Cruces: Take I-10 West past Lordsburg, exit at Road Forks onto NM-80 South. After 28 miles, turn right onto Portal Road.
Essentials
Fuel Up: There are no gas stations in Portal. Fill up in San Simon, AZ; Road Forks, NM; or Lordsburg, NM. The nearest gas is at Valley Fuel in Animas, NM.
Dining: Try the cozy Portal Café for comfort food or Sky Islands Grill and Grocery for casual fare. Craving pizza? Head to PWs Pizza in Animas—worth the short drive.
Final Thoughts
Cave Creek Canyon is a hidden treasure—an “island in the sky” where the desert meets the forest in a spectacular show of fall color. Whether you're hiking the South Fork Trail, birdwatching in the early morning light, or simply savoring the silence beneath a canopy of gold, this remote canyon promises a refreshing escape and an unforgettable adventure.
So grab your camera, lace up your boots, and experience Arizona’s autumn magic in Cave Creek Canyon.
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