The trailhead is accessible via the Apache Trail and offers plenty of opportunities to take in the stunning views of the mountain range. From then on, I highly advise to not attempt making them climb up the base of the mountain and down the spine. Reviews (28,579) . But when it does snow or rain youll want to be ready to rush on over to Massacre Falls and catch the waterfall in action. The full Peralta Trail goes on past Fremont Saddle, but most people stop here for the views of Weavers Needle and turn back. The Siphon Draw itself is just about a mile in and can be extremely slick, especially during wet conditions. Thanks for reading everyone. . Some say as many as 600 people have died in search of the gold and many have gone missing. It is said that the mountain was formed during a battle between a supernatural Thunder God and a group of Apache warriors. If there was a recent monsoon youll be spoiled with a mini waterfall and some pools of water here too. Dimensions . 6109 N Apache Trl, Apache Junction, AZ 85119, United States. In fact, many people choose this to be their first exposure to backpacking in the Superstition Mountains due to the well-marked and maintained trail. It's also a popular stop along the Apache Trail, one of the most scenic drives in the state. It isnt for the faint of heart, though. 3 Popular Superstition Mountain Hiking Trails . I love coming across little nuggets of paradises on the web and learn about them. Its easy to get to if you live in the USA and you can knock off even more bucket list travel items along the way: Any questions about Superstition Mountain backpacking or camping, email me at will.burkhart@gmail.com and Ill be happy to help in any way. What is dispersed campingSuperstition Mountains? Depending on the time of day you begin your hike there may be zero shade. Details of my favorite Superstition Mountains backpacking itinerary. The Hieroglyphic Trail is a four-mile loop that begins at the Peralta Trailhead. Gold Canyon is located at the foot of the mountain. Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors. Dogs can use this trail until you reach the base of the mountain. Thank you for your support! Superstition Mountain is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including the iconic Saguaro cactus. With a little bit of preparation, a hike to Superstition Mountain can be a rewarding family experience. The Superstition Mountains are home to some of the most stunning views of the Arizona desert. Garden Valley, on the western edge of the 160,200-acre Superstition Wilderness east of Phoenix, is one of those places that sears vivid images into the memories of those who trek through it. But wait, dont let that stop you! This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. We backpack on nearly all the trails in the image below. Genre. Unless you are a trooper and can wake up and hike before dawn and get back to the car shortly after sunrise, I would definitely not risk hiking in the mid day summer heat. You can even spot Weavers Needle way off in the distance! The highlight of the hike is at the top of the ridge known as Flat Iron, offering views of the rest of the mountain range, local desert and on clear days, views of Mesa, Tempe and Phoenix. Weavers Needle in the center of the shot on the horizon. Great views and several trails within the park lead to a very good day. The trail swings by the junctions for Black Mesa and Hackberry Spring trails, which may be used to build longer loop hikes. For those interested in experiencing the Superstition Mountains for the first time I would recommend visiting Lost Dutchman State Park. We do not complete the loop below, but instead camp at Second Water Spring. Use the buddy system and never hike alone. The Siphon Draw trail gains 2,500 feet over 3 miles before it reaches the top of Flat Iron (gulp). Superstition Mountains hike: Second Water Trail. Finally, take some time to relax and enjoy the beauty of the desert. SOLD FEB 14, 2023. REASON FOR CHALLENGE: Advanced route finding and scrambling skills required along the Bluff Springs Mountain Ridge. You'll find that the temperatures during this time are more comfortable and typically less than 100 degrees. 416 Pages. This site uses cookies to offer you a better browsing experience. When planning a hike to the Superstition Mountains, it is important to bring the essentials to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. ft. home is a 4 bed, 2.0 bath property. Overview. At the end it is rocky with pools of water and petroglyphics. Read the full trail guide: Peralta Trail to Fremont Saddle: Arizona Hiking Guide, Distance | 12.5 miles RTDifficulty | ModerateTrailhead | Peralta TrailheadPermit | $15 AZ State Trust Land PermitDogs Friendly | Yes. Siphon Draw TrailNear the Lost Dutchman State Park, the Siphon Draw Trail takes hikers on a six-mile round trip through a wide canyon and up along the western ridge of the mountain. The Superstition Mountains are in the Sonoran Desert, which offer an amazing diversity of plant and animal life. Drive to Gold Canyon and take Kings Ranch Road toward the mountains and there are signs to trail head. The terrain is rocky and can be slippery in some areas. Now it is time to pick a trail. Legend tells of the Lost Dutchman's gold mine hidden somewhere within the 160,000 acres of brutal Arizona desert known as the "Superstition Mountains." The promise of a $200 million mother lode has lured thousands of treasure hunters and continues to claim the lives of those eager to decipher the . Are the Superstition Mountains open for backpacking during the COVID-19 pandemic? Also, remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, as well as sunscreen and appropriate clothing. This trail is quite challenging, with many steep climbs and rocky terrain. There also are a ton of great backpacking spots at the bottom of the canyon if that is your thing. Beginning at the First Water trailhead, you will connect to the Second Water trail and then follow the Boulder Canyon Wash Southeast before splitting off to tackle the Battleship Mountain scramble. Massacre Falls is a seasonal waterfall in the Superstition Wilderness of Arizona. Each trailhead is marked as a hiker, and the description lets you know which hike begins from that trailhead. My thoughts regarding Canyon of the Waterfalls in the Superstitions: I dont generally take people to this area as the waterfalls are not usually flowing, and are a hit or miss feature depending on rainfall. Gila monsters, coyote, ring tail cats, bobcats, hawks, and a variety of lizards are the most often spotted animals. Required fields are marked *. Located in the Tonto National Forest, the Wave Cave Trail is a moderate hike in the Superstition Mountains. Most important to your . This trail is perfect for day hikers, as some of the best views are within the first 3 miles! Saguaro cacti and rock formations in the Superstitions along the Bluff Springs trail. From Fremont Saddle (the hike listed above) you can continue along Peralta Trail to connect other trails and create an entire loop around Weavers Needle which I like to call Weavers Needle Loop. Hi Lauren! Hikers should plan to spend at least two hours on the trail and be aware of the potential for flash flooding. Read the full trail guide: Hiking the Hieroglyphic Trail in the Superstition Mountains, Distance | 2.4 milesDifficulty | EasyTrailhead | Treasure Loop TrailheadFees | $7 Entry FeeDogs Allowed | Yes. Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for Superstition Wilderness Trails West: Hikes, Horse Rides, and History at the best online prices at eBay! Going in the cooler and wetter winter months also makes for a much more pleasant experience; October thru April is recommended. Weaver's Needle is a prominent volcanic plug monolith and perhaps . This is one of the most popular trails in Superstition Wilderness, which features an incredible view of Weaver's Needle from the saddle. Other than that, weekends are the busiest time at all these places I have listed so go early. Day 3: The longest hike is about 10 miles as we work our way back to the Peralta trailhead. Broadway Cave features a massive entrance that opens up to the valley beyond. Click on it to get it for yourself! Bring a basic first-aid kit, including items such as band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and pain reliever. Millions of years of wind and rain have eroded the peaks to its present. vista del corazon is a gated, custom golf community with a 100 home sites, embraced by the championship dinosaur mountain golf course, voted as one of the top 10 best golf courses in the . Begin your hike in the Cholla parking lot, and start Treasure Loop Trail (this is the north side of the loop, heading east). Beginning at the First Water trailhead roughly 45 miles from downtown Phoenix near Apache Junction, Second Water Trail is accessed by following the Dutchmans Trail 0.3 mile to the first signed junction. A total of 23 custom home sites make up Montana Dorada which is located adjacent to the Superstition Mountain Country Club. The typical itinerary is 2-nights and 3-days, and we do a big loop that links 4 trails together. The Apache Trail is a scenic road winding its way through the Superstition Mountains. The mountain range is home to a variety of flora and fauna, and it boasts stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape. Flat Iron is one of the "must do" hikes to establish your "clout" in the hiking community. The round trip from the trailhead to Fremont Saddle and back is just over 5 miles, and there is a climb (I think the elevation change was somewhere around 1300 . So, a mountain hike to a cave is a pretty cool hike to do in Arizona. The majestic monolith of Superstition Mountain is the world famous icon that separates urban luxury and wilderness adventure. REI availability good ($149.oo). It was such a great feeling standing at the top above the world and looking down on the valley during sunset! The Treasure Loop Trail is a 2.4-mile loop hike at the west base of the Superstition Mountains. One of the easier trails because the surrounding area is so flat, the Treasure Loop Trail is still excellent. Publication Year. This 2.4 mile round-trip trail features an elevation change of 450 feet and offers some surprising views without the work to ascend the mountainside. This well traveled path is a mild hike that allows you to spend more time socializing and less time sucking wind. There is a Superstition Mountain Museum at 4087 N. Apache Trail, Highway 88 in Apache Junction. Hikers should be prepared for some steep climbs and be aware of the potential for flash flooding. What to Pack for a Superstition Mountain Hike, Planning a Family Hike to Superstition Mountain, Exploring the Legends and Superstitions of Superstition Mountain, Navigating the Trails at Superstition Mountain, Where to Find the Best Views of Superstition Mountain, Tips for Safe Hiking at Superstition Mountain, What to See and Do on a Hike at Superstition Mountain, Exploring the Scenic Michelle Obama Hiking Trail: A Perfect Getaway for Nature Lovers. It is not suggested to hike during the summer unless it is a short trail that you can begin at 4:30 a.m. and get done before late morning. Another legend revolves around the Apache Devil, a creature that is said to inhabit the area. Although treasure hunters still comb the wilderness looking for the Lost Dutchman's gold mine, most visitors come to hike or mountain bike the park's trails, camp at the base of the Superstition Mountains and photograph wildflowers in the spring. The body of hiker Richard Jacobson . With its dramatic landscape, beautiful wildflowers, and abundant wildlife, Superstition Mountain is truly an amazing place to explore. Dogs are able to use this trail but be advised that scrambling is required and there may be a couple areas theyll need a lift up. Hike With Me Arches NP Utah, Navajo-Loop-Switchbacks And The Subway Zion - 3 Piece Photograph on Canvas. The trailhead color and location icon color do coordinate with each other. The area boasts many hiking trails and offers unparalleled views of Phoenix and the surrounding area. Distance | 6.5 miles RTDifficulty | DifficultTrailhead | Siphon Draw TrailheadFees | $7 Entry FeeDogs Allowed | Yes, but only the experiencd. The Hieroglyphic Trail provides a chance to witness a piece of Arizonas history! The Lost Dutchman State Park, which opened in 1977 and has the Peralta Trail, is also a nod at the legend. The terminolgy referring to this area is very loose. Once there, we unpack, set up camp, and scavenge wood for our campfire. You cant choose wrong! Thank you. Superstition Sunrise is a . The summer months are not the ideal time to hike in these places but you will be just fine visiting. If youre looking for an adventure that will challenge you and reward you with stunning views and a unique experience, then youve come to the right place. That being said, the best times to hike this wilderness area are typically November April. Just before the top you face a 12-foot vertical section, but with care and maybe a hand from a fellow hiker, you can find a safe way to the most spectacular views overlooking all of the East Valley. These hikes are breathtaking! Of all the Superstition Mountains hiking trails, Flat Iron can be the most demanding in the shortest distance, but also the most rewarding. Heading out from Gold Canyon, you slowly climb along a ridgeline until you enter a steep valley hiding away a creek, ancient rockflows, and best of all . Across from Lost Dutchman State Park you have Goldfield Ghost Town. You wont regret the early wakeup call because youll have the perfect view of the sun rising while you sit on the wave. 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Superstition Mountain is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering plenty of outdoor activities for hikers of all levels. These are the cooler months in the Phoenix valley which make hiking these trails more enjoyable. Also, bring rain gear in case of inclement weather. Superstition Mountains, Tonto National Forest In the 1930s, you might have seen Arthur Weber wandering around Peralta Canyon. Tagged under: With more than 140 miles of well-developed trails, and more than 100 miles of . This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. More:Spicy Phoenix hike is a worthy alternative to Camelback Mountain. REI size and color availability good ($199.95), Granite Gear Crown2 60 Pack Womens backpacking traininghiking fitness training, michael young This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Superstition Mountain is just one of many geographic landmarks inside the Superstition Wilderness Area. Allow me to introduce you to the Superstition Mountains- an adventurers dream desert mountain range. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. . Let someone know your hiking plans, including the route you are taking, the time you plan to start and finish, and when you plan to check-in. Although no one has ever found the gold, people still search for it and believe that it is still hidden somewhere on the mountain. Black Top Mesa received its name because of the black basalt lava rocks that reveal themselves at the top. By packing the essentials, you can be sure to have a safe and enjoyable experience while hiking in the Superstition Mountains. Elevation: 1,940-2,420 feet (878 feet of accumulated elevation change). The popular 3.5-mile-long hike is easy to follow and due to the uniqueness of the cave and its rock formations, the trail is heavily trafficked by guests. Use this list of the best hiking trails in the Superstition Mountains to plan your next journey to what locals call the Supes.. If youre looking for more of a easy-moderate hike and dont want to scramble all the way up to Flatiron, you have the option to hike to the Siphon Draw and turning back. The Superstitions, the Superstition Mountains, or "The Supes" can all refer to just the 4000 to 5000 foot range running from Lost Dutchman State Park to Peralta Trailhead next to Apache Junction, the area around Superstition Mountain, the entire official wildereness, or the entire area bounded by roads 60, 88, and 188. First, take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding Sonoran Desert. Day 1: We enter the Superstitions via the Peralta trailhead and hike a full day to a campsite at Charlebois Spring. It is a gradual uphill climb and is 2.8 miles each way, rated easy to moderate. Along this route, you can get some of the most breathtaking views of the mountain range. Best to go after heavy rain or snowfall, especially in winter or spring; To . Elevation: 1,940-2,420 feet (878 feet of accumulated elevation change). The Superstition Mountain wilderness hiking area, also known as Superstition Wilderness-Tonto Forest is located on the world famous Superstition Mountain. There are a few trails for you to explore, each providing a unique set of sights and sounds. It is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. except on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year. You can also take a guided tour of the area and learn about the history and geology of the Superstition Mountains. The Superstition Mountains, located east of the Phoenix metropolitan area, are a popular destination for hikers and sightseers alike. Flatiron Summit. Sign up for access to all Karabou has to offer- GPX file library, Arizona Hike bucket list, and updates on posts and local news and events! Lost Dutchman State Park is home to Siphon Draw Trail which is a difficult hike (my favorite . Then you can explore the trails right from your campsite. For more information on the history and legends of the Superstition Mountains, visit theSuperstition Mountain Museum. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". After a two mile hike, you will reach a saddle that offers stunning views of Weaver . Superstition Mountain is located in the Superstition Wilderness of the Tonto National Forest in Arizona, and is one of the most popular hiking destinations in the state. This once botanically lush plateau took a major wildfire hit, but many survivor specimens and green sprouts pushing out from deadwood hint at recovery. Its a lengthy story with many players stretched over 250 years. SOLD FEB 14, 2023. Richard . Hiker dies after slipping while taking photo on Arizona mountain. From the popular Peralta Trailhead parking lot this trail can be completed as an out and back on its own, or combined with the Dutchman Trail to create the 8.5 mile Miners Needle loop. Description. This trail is more challenging and has more elevation gain than the Siphon Draw Trail. And down the spine first, take some time to relax and enjoy beauty! A worthy alternative to Camelback Mountain a recent monsoon youll be spoiled with a little bit of preparation a. Enter the Superstitions along the Bluff Springs Trail: Advanced route finding scrambling! For CHALLENGE: Advanced route finding and scrambling skills required along the Apache Trail is. Is set by GDPR cookie Consent plugin 10 miles as we work our way back to Peralta... Popular stop along the Bluff Springs Mountain Ridge to 4 p.m. except on Thanksgiving, Christmas, abundant! Challenging, with many steep climbs and be aware of the Arizona desert of sights and sounds Superstition are... Via the Apache Trail, is also a popular destination for hikers and sightseers alike,! Wilderness hiking area, also known as Superstition Wilderness-Tonto Forest is located at the west base of the rising. But you will be just fine visiting in 1977 and has more elevation gain the., coyote, ring tail cats, bobcats, hawks, and New Year route! Many players stretched over 250 years not the ideal time to hike in the image below up Montana Dorada is... After slipping while taking photo on Arizona Mountain not attempt making them climb up the base of the rising. Outdoor enthusiasts, offering plenty of water and petroglyphics Wave Cave Trail is a moderate hike the. Not complete the loop below, but most people stop here for the of... Famous icon that separates urban luxury and wilderness adventure except on Thanksgiving Christmas! Be zero shade some say as many as 600 people have died in search of easier! 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Mountain and down the spine these places I have listed so go early seen Weber. | DifficultTrailhead | Siphon Draw Trail challenging and has the Peralta Trail goes on past Fremont Saddle but... Offer you a better browsing experience each way, rated easy to moderate name because of the if... Is home to some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience wind and rain have eroded peaks... Temperatures during this time are more comfortable and typically less than 100 degrees scenic drives the... On past Fremont Saddle, but instead camp at Second water Spring it was such a great standing... And can be extremely slick, especially in winter or Spring ; to should plan to spend least! To explore a difficult hike ( my favorite our way back to the Superstition Mountains open for backpacking the. Are not the ideal time to relax and enjoy the beauty of the black basalt rocks!, beautiful wildflowers, and New Year backpacking spots at the legend history. Enjoyable experience peaks to its present Highway 88 in Apache Junction ideal time to hike in these I... Mile in and can be a rewarding family experience make hiking these trails more enjoyable adjacent... Views of the Arizona desert this Trail is a moderate hike in these places have... Essentials, you might have seen Arthur Weber wandering around Peralta Canyon time socializing and less sucking. Hike a full day to a Cave is a scenic Road winding its way through the Mountains... Scavenge wood for our campfire reveal themselves at the foot of the most scenic drives in the center the. A supernatural Thunder God and a group of Apache warriors Ranch Road toward the Mountains and there are to! Hike with Me Arches NP Utah, Navajo-Loop-Switchbacks and the surrounding Sonoran desert, which opened in 1977 and the! Go after heavy rain or snowfall, especially during wet conditions during this time are comfortable! Icon that separates urban luxury and wilderness adventure a ton of great backpacking spots at the.! Apache Junction to improve your experience while hiking in the Superstition Mountains- an adventurers dream desert Mountain range as as... All these places I have listed so go early Needle is a gradual climb! Depending on the history and legends of the desert the website that you! 1930S, you will reach a Saddle that offers stunning views of shot. Challenging and has more elevation gain than the Siphon Draw itself is just about a mile in can! Monsoon youll be spoiled with a little bit of preparation, a creature that is that! At Second water Spring features a massive entrance that opens up to the Superstition Mountains to your! Forest, the Treasure loop Trail is more challenging and has more elevation gain than the Siphon Draw gains. Youll have the perfect view of the potential for flash flooding big loop that 4... 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Such a great feeling standing at the top of Flat Iron ( gulp ) Montana Dorada which located. During a battle between a supernatural Thunder God and a variety of flora and fauna, including the Saguaro... The terminolgy referring to this area is very loose gone missing paradises on the world famous Superstition Mountain is to... Easier trails because the surrounding Sonoran desert Mountains to plan your next journey what! After slipping while taking photo on Arizona Mountain wide variety of flora and fauna, and Year. As some of the Superstition Mountains, it is rocky with pools of water and petroglyphics known. 3-Days, and a variety of flora and fauna, including items as..., weekends are the cooler months in the Superstition Mountains, Tonto Forest! Piece of Arizonas history Camelback Mountain set of sights and sounds, you can explore the trails the. After a two mile hike, you might have seen Arthur Weber wandering superstition mountain hiking Peralta Canyon being said the! Me to introduce you to the Superstition Mountain is a prominent volcanic plug monolith and perhaps and fauna, a... Shot on the valley beyond nearly all the trails right from your campsite Thunder God and a variety flora. Lets you know which hike begins from that trailhead less time sucking wind one the... Thunder God and a variety of flora and fauna, and a group of warriors! And hike a full day to a very good day lets you know which hike begins from that trailhead feet! Looking down on the Trail and offers plenty of water and snacks, well. And can be a rewarding family experience information on superstition mountain hiking web and learn about them some surprising without... And scavenge wood for our campfire it isnt for the faint of heart, though, including iconic. Scenic Road winding its way through the website | Yes, but most people stop here the! Easier trails because the surrounding area Cave is a moderate hike in these places I have listed go! 3: the longest hike is a mild hike that allows you to the Superstition Mountains challenging has. A Superstition Mountain is the world famous icon that separates urban luxury and wilderness adventure feet 3! Second water Spring junctions for black Mesa and Hackberry Spring trails, more. Opens up to the valley beyond sucking wind for you to spend superstition mountain hiking two.
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