Place · 0.3 mi away
Overview
Tower Ruin is a striking Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwelling tucked high in an alcove off a side branch of Horse Canyon. It’s a quiet, remote objective that rewards patient hikers with a dramatic setting and a real sense of discovery.
What You’ll See
- A tower-style dwelling perched on a ledge, with mortared stonework and pinyon roof beams (some darkened from ancient burning).
- Nearby rock art: faded painted handprints along the approach.
- Bonus scenery on the way: at least two natural bridges, including the photogenic Paul Bunyan’s Potty.
Getting There & The Hike
Start from the Salt Creek trailhead in the Needles. Follow the wash/old road system past Horse Canyon and those natural bridges; Tower Ruin sits about 5 miles one-way, roughly 10 miles round trip. The walking is generally easy in the wash, but expect sand in stretches. A signed side path leads up a side canyon to the best viewing area. The final half mile is narrow and overgrown—long pants help.
Plan about 5 hours round trip if you’re moving steadily and stopping for photos. There’s no reliable water on route.
Rules, Safety & Etiquette
This is a protected archeological site. Entry into the ruin is prohibited; enjoy it from a respectful distance. The dwelling once used carved hand- and toe-holds on the cliff—do not attempt to climb to it. This is remote country with no services and typically no cell reception.
Why It’s Worth Your Time
If you’re into cultural history and solitude, this is a gem: a well-preserved dwelling in a spectacular alcove, plus rock art and natural bridges along the way. If you want an easy roadside ruin, look elsewhere—this one makes you earn it.
Best Time to Visit
- Cooler seasons and mornings are best to avoid heat on the exposed wash.
- Weekdays see very light traffic; you may have the place to yourself.
- For photos, morning light often treats south-facing alcoves kindly and reduces haze.
Make the Most of It
Bring binoculars or a telephoto lens—the ruin sits high in the alcove. Wear long pants for the scratchy final approach, and carry ample water, sun protection, and a good lunch. Start early, move steadily, and budget time to enjoy the bridges and pictographs you’ll encounter.
Pros
- Remote Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwelling in a dramatic alcove
- Route passes natural bridges and painted hand pictographs
Cons
- Long, mostly sandy 10-mile round trip with an overgrown final stretch
- Ruin is off-limits; viewing is from a respectful distance only
Tips
- Start early and carry plenty of water—there’s no reliable water on route.
- Wear long pants; the last half-mile is narrow and scratchy with brush.
- Bring binoculars or a telephoto lens for better views of the alcove.
- Watch for the signed side trail to the ruin; it’s easy to stroll past.
- Enjoy the extras en route: natural bridges and painted hand pictographs.
