Leisurely Hike (Photo Opportunities): Salt River Hike to “The Oven” and Beyond

IMPORTANT - PLEASE READ: At the end of the hike will begin another Meetup at 1:00 at the same location. We will paddle the Salt River. These are two separate events. See details: https://www.meetup.com/amazing-arizona-adventures-triple-a/events/311635046/?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=announce_event&utm_source=link&utm_version=v2

Overview:

We'll start at the Blue Point parking area and follow the right side of the Salt River for about half a mile until we reach a wash. From there, we’ll turn right and head up to The Oven—an abandoned limestone kiln built into the hillside, believed to date back to the late 1800s. It’s a fascinating site to explore, and we’ll take time to check it out up close.

After visiting The Oven, we’ll continue a bit farther up the wash before turning cross-country—no established trail, but easy hiking—making our way back toward the river and looping back to our cars.

The Oven is a surprisingly large structure, and there are two ways to experience it: you can step inside from below and look up through its opening, or climb to the top of the hill and peer down from above.

This hike showcases the beautiful desert scenery of the Tonto National Forest, with sweeping views of the Salt River, rugged hillsides, and plenty of Sonoran plant life. Expect a moderate hike with rewarding scenery and historical intrigue.

Direction: Blue Point Recreation Area: https://share.google/H0ivHPf526dqu74Rt

Hike Details

Pace: Leisurely — plenty of time for photos, exploring, and enjoying the scenery.

Distance: Approximately 4 miles round trip.

Elevation Gain: Minimal to none — a mostly flat and easy route.

Estimated Duration: 3 to 4 hours, depending on group size and interest in photography or exploration.

## Parking & Pass Info

You’ll need a Tonto Pass for parking.

• Advance purchase: $8
• On-site pay station: $12
• America the Beautiful Pass (ATB) is also accepted

I recommend buying your pass in advance since the vending machines at the site occasionally don’t work.

Where to Buy: Visit the Tonto National Forest website for a list of official vendors: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r03/tonto/passes

As always, bring lots of water, nutritious snacks for lunch, hat, sturdy footwear, hiking poles (personal choice), sunscreen, camera, flashlight (for evening hikes), and any other items that you as an EXPERIENCED hiker likes to bring on hikes...and very important your sense for an Amazing Arizona Adventure!

The Event Planners, Leaders and all Organizers from "Amazing Arizona Adventures" are volunteers and are not professional guides. They will not be held responsible for you. The function of the Organizer is only to organize this event. Each person who signs up for and participates in our events are responsible for his or her own safety and the safety of his or her guests. You agree not to hold the trip Planners, Leaders or Organizers responsible if you get injured. All participants must be 18 years of age or with parent or legal guardian that assume responsibility for minor child. By your confirmation of attending you agree to the above terms and agreements.
YOU are responsible for your own personal safety WE do not assume any responsibility or liability for you or your stuff.