Suagrfoot and I had a most wonderful adventure! A few days ago we climbed the hill next to the railroad bridge at the Afton Canyon campground. While we were up there we saw some amazing views of the canyons and washes that head south into the Cady Mountains from the river. These canyons are now closed off to motor travel. We decided right then and there that as soon as possible we would walk out there and place some caches.
As it turned out the day was spectacular and I must have said WOW a thousand times, not only from the scenery but also because the of array of gorgeous rocks and stones to be seen along the way. We went up the first canyon and placed the Desert Canyon Ponds cache. Then on the way back we took an old trail (former road, but no longer open for vehicles) from the first canyon over to the west where we placed this second cache.
It may be shorter to go between these caches by going through the rocks, but unless you are a rock climber I doubt you will enjoy that strategy. You can get from one to the other the way we did or you can go all the way back to the river and up the other canyon another time. The access to the second canyon at the river does have a lot of picky bushes & some fences, but you can find your way through on foot without too much trouble. There is a narrow bridge of planks across the river next to the railroad bridge.
In any case the area is amazing and a feast for the eyes and camera. We saw evidence of sheep (bones) and big predators (chewed sheep bones) as well as other fascinating wildlife. Give yourself a few hours at a cool time of day and enjoy! Our total hike up the first canyon, across on the trail and back down the second canyon was probably 4 to 4 1/2 miles so plan accordingly. It was an amazing treat to hike 4- 4 1/2 miles and to see ZERO tire tracks, trash and/or used ammo casings. Please lets all keep it that way!
As always be careful where you place your hands and feet, respect the wildlife, and plan for the desert conditions you will encounter.