Location and Description
The 5,800-acre North Santa Teresa Wilderness is located about 25 miles west of Safford, Arizona in Graham County.
The geologic landmark known as the Black Rock rises nearly 1,000 feet from its base while the remainder of this mile-long rhyolitic plug is encircled by cliffs of several hundred feet. To this day, the rock holds spiritual significance for local Native Americans as well as a mystique for visitors. Jackson Mountain rises to 5,890 feet southeast of the rock and is dissected by several canyons. The majority of this sister to the boulder-strewn Forest Service Santa Teresa Wilderness consists of desert and mountain shrub, grassland and riparian vegetation.
Access
There is no legal access to the North Santa Teresa Wilderness. The San Carlos Apache Indian Tribe has closed access across reservation lands west of Fort Thomas along the Black Rock Wash Road. From Phoenix, take State Highway 60 to Globe, Arizona and continue along State Highway 70 through Fort Thomas to the Klondyke Road. West along the Klondyke Road, the wilderness can be approached from the south, but you will need to get permission in advance to cross State Trust Lands and private lands.
Nonfederal Lands
Obtain a recreation permit from the San Carlos Apache Indian Tribe before crossing any Reservation lands. You will also need permission from private landowners before you can cross their lands to reach the wilderness area.
Topographic Maps
7.5-minute: Jackson Mountain
Game and Fish Management Unit
For more information contact:
Bureau of Land Management
Safford Field Office
711 14th Avenue
Safford, AZ 85546
(928) 348-4400
Information from
U.S. Bureau of Land Management,
Office of Public Affairs
