Willow Springs Basin Tank via Bulldog Canyon
Table of contents
The Willow Springs Basin Tank via Bulldog Canyon is a 9.7 km loop hike in the Tonto National Forest that can be reached quickly from the upper northeast reaches of the Mesa area. This hike offers stellar scenes of towering saguaros and red rock canyon views. It does require some routefinding and a GPS track is helpful, but it’s worth the small bit of preparation required. Bring lots of water on this route.
Route Description for Willow Springs Basin Tank via Bulldog Canyon
The Willow Springs Basin Tank via Bulldog Canyon is a 9.7 km hike that leads you through a scenic portion of the Tonto National Forest with tall cacti lining your trail and the mountains in the distance. This loop is beautiful and it won’t take long to get to if you live in the Mesa area. This route is also popular with off-road vehicles and horseback riders. Remember to share the trail.
This hike has some sections where the trail can become a bit difficult to follow. A downloaded GPS route is a must! Additionally, it gets very hot in this area. Avoid this hike in the summertime and bring plenty of water no matter what time of year you choose to visit.
From the trailhead, hike directly into the canyon ahead of you. Where the trail splits, you’ll start your loop. You can do the loop whichever way appeals to you-- the views are similar clockwise and counterclockwise. When you reach the base of the loop again, retrace your steps to the trailhead.
Insider Hints for Willow Springs Basin Tank via Bulldog Canyon
- Hikers and horseback riders don’t need a permit for this hike, but OHVers do. Permits are free.
Getting to the Willow Springs Basin Tank via Bulldog Canyon Trailhead
The trailhead for the Willow Springs Basin Tank via Bulldog Canyon is off SR 88.
Route Information
Backcountry Campground:
No
When to do:
October-May
Pets allowed:
Yes - On Leash
Family friendly:
Yes
Route Signage:
Poor
Crowd Levels:
Low
Route Type:
Lollipop
Willow Springs Basin Tank via Bulldog Canyon Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherReviews
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