The difficult and dangerous terrain of the area offers a true test of the visitor's backcountry skills when they travel through the canyons of Tonto and Haigler Creeks. The rock barriers of these streams must be traversed, and deep pools require you to swim and float backpacks across them. If you hike the canyons of either of these two creeks, remember to bring tennis shoes, swimming gear, and watertight bags for your gear. Less strenuous challenges can be provided on the trails, where the visitor can enjoy the solitude and natural conditions of the area without too much work. For the angler , Tonto and Haigler Creeks offer high quality cold water fishing opportunities.
Fishing pressure can be high at points near established trails.
Styrofoam containers, monofilament line, plastic packaging, and other discarded fishing accessories do not blend in well with the wilderness character of the area. Also, please bury fish viscera away from any use areas. The topography of the area lends itself to fine opportunities for photography. This is especially true on the ridges, where vast panoramic vistas of the surrounding country can be experienced. The Hellsgate Wilderness is for our use and enjoyment, but man is only a visitor who has an obligation to leave this area unimpaired for future generations.