Introduction
Battle Axe Mountain adds a dramatic exclamation to this rugged and lush Sonoran Desert area south of Superior, Arizona. Other names of features inspired by the ruggedness: The Spine, The Rincon, and Copper Butte. The intrepid hiker can follow Walnut Canyon south to the Gila River, or turn up-canyon at White Canyon itself for spectacular vistas. A selection of scenary shots are at Flickr,
Reach White Canyon by driving nine miles south on SR-177, then turn west on Battle Axe Rd. for four miles. Size: 5,800 acres.
View Larger Map. Green trekker symbol is location of trailhead into White Canyon Wilderness. The pink balloon at lower left indicates location of Box Canyon. Blue balloon at top is Boyce Thompson Arboretum. Gas, food and supplies are available at Superior.
On 30 March 2014, six members of the Arizona Native Plant Society conducted a survey of plants and other biota. More than 130 plant species were identified in bloom. With their generous help I was able to greatly expand the lists here.
View of Battle Axe near trail entrance to White Canyon Wilderness.
The geology of White Canyon consists largely of readily erodible volcanic rhyolite and tuff. Huge blocks of the relatively soft rock have fallen into the deep canyon passages. Above, there are numerous caves, grottos and precipitous ledges.
