The rugged peaks can be seen from miles away, seeming to invite outdoor enthusiasts to explore its many hidden canyons. Just outside Phoenix at the base of the Superstition Mountains. For all the Supes veterans, give yourselves a pat on the back, because its rough out there. DON'T CLIMB ON OR TOUCH THE HEIROGRLYPHS!! Some solid glute and quad strengthening never hurt anyone. Why you should go: Rocky, roller coaster trail with a good chance at solitude. The trail crests a high ridge after a quarter-mile, and makes a rugged 2-mile descent into Cedar Basin. It is more of a climb/scramble then a hike. 1367 S Country Club Dr UNIT 1193, Mesa, AZ 85210. About 3.5 miles in, a trail enters from the east this is the turnoff. Was busy the day we visited and parking was a challenge. The marina at Canyon Lake will take care of all of your boating needs, and additionally has a campground for lodging! Superstition Harley-Davidson provides free hot dogs and sodas. Cost of entry to park was $10. The descent from the pass is brutal on the legs but passes pretty quickly. This part of the trail is less crowded and presents an opportunity for some solitude and good views not seen from the main trail. There is a wood bench and a sign at this point that marks the point at which you can take the secret spur trail to the Praying Hands. Very busy trail! If you look around closely, you may even find pieces of pottery (look but leave them where they lay). The Peralta trail is a popular way to get to Freemont saddle and a great view of Weaver's Needle. Is the Dutchmans Lost Gold Mine real? Hiking is fun. But either way, around every corner is a different piece of the landscape waiting to be unveiled. We went down it at night because the hike took us about 12 hours, and it wasn't tons of fun with head lamps. The points of direction for this trail are far from few. Well marked and maintained. Typical desert plants of Saguaro, prickly pear, and Cholla are seen here. Ready for a hike? The views at the top are monumental! Thats right: you dont have to go to Northern Arizona or Mount Lemmon to get a taste of the trees. Superstition Mountain Hiking: Peralta Canyon Trail Elevation Gain- 1400 feet (427 meters) Trail Type- Go and Return Distance- 4.5 Miles (7.24 km) Difficulty Rating- Moderate to Difficult 5 Stars Pets- Yes The Peralta Canyon Trail is very popular because of the stunning scenery found along its route. Turn right on Hwy. Archaeologists claim the petroglyphs date back to 900 A.D when the Hohokam people inhabited the area. It presents an adventure for rock climbers, too, some of which have even camped out at the top. It was named the Apache Trail after the Native American Indians who originally used this trail to migrate through the Superstition Mountains for over 1,000 years. For travel in the Superstition Wilderness, we recommend the Superstition Wilderness, Arizona map published by Beartooth Maps of Montana.The map is . $37.13. We promise not to annoy you, but if you wish, you may unsubscribe at any time. The latest Arizona headlines, breaking news, in-depth investigations, politics, and local community stories that matter to you. Conditions were cool & dry. Remember to bring extra water, comfortable shoes, and a hat. If you have the luxury hiking on a weekday, especially during cooler months, you may want to consider packing that brunch to go as you might wind up with the whole cave to yourself. Tule Trail 122. She enjoys all things outdoors, resistance training, authentic Indian food, and advocating for our environment and human rights. The route is over open slopes bearing a few bushes, saguaro and other cacti, soon reaching a nice viewpoint over the lake, the canyon and the Apache Trail to the east, winding over the hills towards Tortilla Flat. You can learn more about our editorial policies here. Keep your eyes peeled during your visit, and you may even catch sight of a picturesque bighorn sheep perched atop the canyon! About Lost Dutchman State Park. Whether you're curious about the tales of the Lost Dutchman Gold Mine and want to see the mysterious lands for yourself, or simply just want to take in some of the most gorgeous sections of the Superstitious Mountains, Lost Dutchman State Park has you covered. Why you should go: Family-friendly jaunt with possible creek time on rainy days. To stay on this loop hike, go left here. Most of this trail is relatively flat and easy. Our favorite hikes include everything from family-friendly trails to challenging summit attempts, offering a scenic feast of high-altitude lakes, waterfalls, and of course, spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains. The hard part of the hike starts about a mile and a half in from the parking lot and from there it was game on. This was a fun hike, but this was really really hard. Before too long, youll be using your hands and feet to hoist yourself up, but the views dont fall short at any point during this hike. View 10291 E Rimrock Loop, Gold Canyon, AZ 85118 property records for FREE including property ownership, deeds, mortgages, titles & sales history, current & historic tax assessments, legal, parcel & structure description, land use, zoning & more. Territory Supply is reader-supported and may earn a commission when you book or purchase using our links. Got lucky and found lot parking but lot was pretty full. Don't let that discourage you, though! Just be prepared for a bushwhack on an intermittent trail along the creek to get to the waterfall. This hike is shorter than the north side, too, by 3 miles. Do keep in mind that it gets very steep towards the top and I wouldnt consider this an easy hike. Our first comes from Aravaipa Ambassador Amber Fifield who regularly seeks out adventures in remote mountains and canyons across Arizona. Oak Flat Loop Trail. The Cave Trail-Peralta Loop is a moderately strenuous day hike through some of the most spectacular and best-known terrain of Arizona's Superstition Wilderness. So thats why Im only giving it two stars. Always remember that you should try to stay left when possible going up as it is the often the route with less exposure. Awesome hike with varied terrain and views. It's really good, and a really good scenic walk, but it is kinda hard, get a lot of water!!! Bri Cossavella is a freelance writer for Territory Supply. Goldfield offers ziplining, live gunfight reenactments, and a narrow gauge railroad you can ride. TRAILHEAD: First Water Trailhead, Apache Junction DIFFICULTY: moderate DISTANCE: 10.41 Mile Loop APPROX. Are you looking for a great day pack? Youre scrambling over boulders and fighting through cat claw. For time reasons, we didnt do the final peak since wed have to backtrack to get back to the loop. I only went a couple of miles in, but I loved it. If you ever have company from out-of-state, this hike will give them the perfect dose of the desert. Superstition Mountain 26 Feb 2023 with a little frosting. Many pools and waterfall. Then, after a few switchbacks, youre there. Distance: 12.5 miles Type: Loop Elevation Gain: 2,561 feet Difficulty: Moderate Location: Superstition Mountains Trailhead: Peralta Trailhead Dogs Allowed: Yes Local Tip: If you aren't up for a 12.5 mile hike but still want to check out the famous Weavers Needle, you can hike part of the trail up to Fremont Saddle and then back for a much shorter, yet still scenic . Reviewers of this hike have claimed the navigation is like solving a hard puzzle. The trail takes you through Garden Valley, past Hackberry Spring, then along First Water Creek before winding its way back to the trailhead. I . This trail, in particular, keeps me humbled and healed. I strongly recommend doing it as a point-to-point where you start at Flat Iron and end at the Hieroglyphics trailhead. Just when you think you have an understanding the Supes, you find another piece of territory to blow you away. Yes, this excruciatingly steep hike is a heart-pumper, but its rewarding as can be and still worthwhile if you choose to only go to the end of the Siphon Draw Trail section. I did this at the beginning of Feb and it was a lovely and challenging day hike!! latest trail conditions. The museum is great for the family or any history buff, and is even home to something that should be near and dear to your heart after driving Apache Trail-- a stagecoach that was once used on the route! The payoff at the end was okay. Its not scorching and the apples are in season. If you do take this trail, a good spot to turn around is the saddle between the spires. Just east of Mesa, Arizona,lie the Superstition Mountains, commonly known as "The Superstitions." No one really knows the source of the carvings, but its still a magnificent piece of history and a memory to take home. The AllTrails map helped a lot, and there was service most of time. Youll still get a good 11+ miles in. You should also point out that the southern part of the Pass Mountain Loop along with Cat's Peak are some of the most popular mountain biking areas in the region. The route you choose will also determine the difficulty and length. Recommend that you download the map. This is a counterclockwise loop that meanders around a formation known as the Miners Needle in the Superstition Wilderness, with views of mountains and Sonoran desert. If you decide to go during a warmer day, there may be a trickle. I went counterclockwise on this loop, and I think it might be slight easier to go clockwise. As I was climbing up the flattened rock area. But while youre flowing, keep your eyes as peeled as possible for the cairns, or you may miss the turnoff to the summit. RV or tent camp right in the park, and wake up to killer views of those red cliffs. The trail is well defined and every trail junction is well signed. There are three springs on this trail, two of which will require a little bit of navigation but will be necessary if you decide to turn this into an overnight trip. Weavers Needle is a volcanic monolith soaring nearly 1,300 feet from base to summit. Superstition Mountain itself is the anchor to this strangely beautiful, historically rich wilderness area. About Press Copyright Contact us Creators Advertise Developers Terms Privacy Policy & Safety How YouTube works Test new features NFL Sunday Ticket Press Copyright . Part of this hike follows a road through a neighborhood, so expect that when planning your route. Beautiful scenery, a few wild bulls, a nice amount of people but not overcrowded. This hike is located near Apache Junction, AZ. Barriers have been placed at any confluences to ensure introduced fish do not hybridize with this native species. Located along the southern rim, Superstition Loop allows 4x4 users to enjoy the towering peaks while driving along an easy off-road trail. It was breathtaking from the very beginning. Underneath the bridge is Fish Creek. Although there are creeks and springs along the way, don't count on them. With lower congestion than some of the shorter, easier hikes in the area, you can get a quiet experience in this beautiful desert landscape. The area is known for lore about lost mines and ghost towns, and the museum will spark more curiosity about these mysteries. Just go at your own pace and start early in the day. The desert turns surprisingly green and the wildflowers abound. I tracked my hike on Garmin, not AllTrails, so my map and stats dont show on here. Crowds of people climbing all over the glyphs today, really sad to see thousands of years of history ruined like that. Just remember, this is the desert. I thought we were lost lol. The Superstition Mountain Range is a unique and vast region located in central Arizona. Check out our review of the 5 best women's day packs of 2018. Without further ado, our favorite hikes in the Superstitions. Why you should go: The more scenic way to Reavis, and you can still get apples. Legend has it the Peralta family originally from northern Mexico came to these mountains in search of gold in the 1840s. In late February through March, this is one of the best wildflower trails you're likely to come across (dependent on winter rains). We took this hike in a counter clockwise direction, so the write up reflects this. There is a creek, too, mind you. Two Bar Ridge Trail 119. Stay tf out of the Lost Dutchman Camp Groundand Apache Junction in general, but the mountains are great. The elevation gain is also gradual. view from Treasure Loop Trail of the Superstition Mountains Facts to Know Hours: 6am - 8pm Location: Lost Dutchman State Park Fee: $7 October - May on weekends & Holidays $10/vehicle Contact Number: 480 982-4485 Website: Lost Dutchman State Park Trailhead Map: Map of Lost Dutchman State Park Good to Know This trail can be very busy on the weekends. This trail does get you closer to the unique spire formations of the Praying Hands. site is used. Amazing amazing amazing though scary at some points but worth it. Once youre at the top, the glorious views are the reward for powering through. Once you are there, relax, marvel at the views and nibble on the snacks you packed. Preview trail Backpacking Hiking Views No shade Conditions Here's where the best summer memories often begin. Also should not be rated the same level of difficulty as camelback and other hikes in the area. Quite a big difference if you ask me, so dont make the same mistake I did. Thats how I felt during this trek. Although it can be quite crowded on the weekends during the peak season,the views from the saddleare absolutely worth it. Enjoy the view and explore the saddle to see all the vantages. There were also a few muddy spots . This is a particularly good hike after a rain. The view was incredible and it was not busy at all because we went on a Wednesday afternoon. The AllTrails trail starts at the Flat Iron trailhead. A nice walk, certainly not challenging. I would highly highly recommend wearing proper footwear for this. Maps are supplied at the trailhead, making wayfinding a . If you do this hike during after recent rains, you can settle into the sounds of running water in the Draw. Parents should be aware that the trail is narrow in places and traverses some steep slopes. Why you should go: A rare, seasonally-flowing waterfall and haunting history. Its worth hanging out a few extra minutes to soak up the sights and sounds before continuing to Flatirons flat-topped summit. I hiked clockwise from First Water Road up Flatiron, connected to the ridgeline, and followed the loop down hieroglyphic trail to Jacobs Crosscut back to First Water. Jacobs Crosscut to Siphon to Flatiron to Ridgeline to Hieroglyphics. Wander among iconic landscapes beneath picture-perfect skies. Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we may earn commissions from qualifying purchases from Amazon.com. It was a rapid incline the rest of the way to the top of Siphon Draw. Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for SUPERSTITION WILDERNESS TRAILS WEST: HIKES, HORSE RIDES, By Jack Carlson NEW at the best online prices at eBay! Elevation gain-3,000ft. To get to this hideaway, youll start at the First Water Trailhead off of AZ 88, like some of the other great hikes on this list. Muddy trail. If you're in the mood for an adventure on the road, buckle up and get started! Easy Jeep trails that take you to an abandoned gypsum mine and also quite close to the Superstition Mountains. To Young. This is a nice introductory hike to the Superstition mountain wilderness area. For Rent. The Superstition Mountain Range is a unique and vast region located in central Arizona. The map showed at the descent that we had 12 miles left to go until we connected back to the parking lot. Just at the edge of Phoenix, the Superstition Mountains offer a jaw-droppingly rugged landscape. You can learn more about our editorial policies, 12 Best Hikes in Arizona, From Desert to Tundra, Charlebois Spring (Via Peralta trailhead), Charlebois Spring (Via First Water trailhead), 11 Best Campgrounds in Death Valley National Park, 12 Epic Hiking Camps & Summer Backpacking Trips, 9 of the Best Places to Camp Near Sedona, Arizona, 12 Awe-Inspiring Airbnbs Near Big Bend National Park, Nude Hiking: How to (Legally) Celebrate Naked Hiking Day, 10 Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado, The Best Stops on an Epic Dallas to Houston Road Trip. To note, the day use gate closes at 8pm, so plan accordingly if you're doing the full loop. Each season brings a different view of Zion. Great views after the fog cleared. Luckily there were a bunch of cars parked off to the left, by some rope, and that was how we knew where the start of the trail head was. The magistrates were now so far satisfied as to agree that Jacques Aymar should be authorized to follow the trail of the murderers, and have a company of archers to follow him. There is an aquifer-fed spring/creek to refill water, but be sure to pack plenty regardless. Treasure Loop Trail #56: This 2.4-mile loop gives you a nice overview of the area by looping through the foothills at the base of the mountains. I dont blame them. https://www.alltrails.com/explore/recording/afternoon-run-51ecca3--2?p=-1. Like walking into a desert forest. This hike offersspectacular scenery andmoderate difficulty for a great day hike option during the fall, winter, and spring months. If you have 4WD locked and loaded and dont mind more of an uphill climb, than this path has your name all over it. 4 bd 3 ba 1.9k sqft. For one, when its overcast and/or raining, the desert is radiating in color and life. The creek was flowing strong - impossible to keep the feet dry. Why you should go: A potpourri of Superstition grandeur. It is full of history and tales of gold, as well as 100-year-old saguaro cacti, vista views, and wildlife. Also, the last 7 or so miles is not worth doing, as it is merely a connection between the Hieroglyphics Trail and the Flat Iron/Siphon Draw trailhead. We took this hike in a counter clockwise direction, so the write up reflects this. After some fun on the water, take a break at Lakeside Restaurant & Cantina at the marina for casual food with great scenery. Why you should go: Springtime wildflowers and craggy rock formations. Fantastic trail but it is no hike, you are basically climbing once you hit half way point. If you're quiet, you may be able to see big horned rams/sheep that are pretty cool. Navigating less maintained sections of the trail definitely slows you down. Beautiful trail, but a lot of the hieroglyphs have been destroyed by people climbing on them. Why you should go: Get a dose of cave therapy. The spa offers everything from luxurious detox pedicures to deep tissue massages. At the southwest end of the foothills of the mountains, the Superstition Mountain Museum offers exhibits that educate folks about the rich history of Arizona, starting with the story of the Apaches. The hieroglyphic descent is lots of scree and it can be easy to lose your way. However, by the time we began the descent, the map showed we had only done 7 miles, while both of our watches showed we had done 12. Here are sixof our favorite hikes! At Gold Canyon, resort packages of all kinds are available to meet any kind of needs, including plenty of golf. Explore Superstition Mountain Trails - view hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. With incredible landmarks such asWeaver's Needle, years of fascinating history abouthidden treasure, lost mines, death, and new development,this area has attracted visitors from all over the worldfor centuries. No HOA. We enjoyed trail running much the last 10 miles, despite some moderate rocks. About 20 years after the attack, Jacob Waltz now known as The Dutchman caught wind of the mines location. Just past the springs, there are also some pools of water, and camping spots are scattered at the base of Charlebois Canyon. Whether you come for a weekend or stay for the week, Sedona and the surrounding area boast some great camping opportunities. The trail slowly gains elevation as it heads directly towards the Superstition Mountains. When he died, he took the location of the mine to his grave. Look out for epic views of Weavers Needle, too. That was good for the calf muscles. Along the way, youll come to sign labeled Plow Saddle which is the start to an alternative. Why you should go: Arguably the best view of Weavers Needle. The slickrock surface is fun to walk (or crawl) across, and is incredibly scenic. Backpacking in the Supes is a one-of-a-kind experience. Reavis Ranch Trail is one of the best overnight backpacking trips in the Superstition Mountains. Watch the sunset during dinner at Kokopellis Restaurant, or put your feet up at The Ledge at Dinosaur Mountain's outdoor bar and fire pits. Here's our guide to conquering Apache Trail. While solitude isnt always in the cards on the Peralta Trail, it does offer a journey through a mystical canyon and a desert wonderland even the drive to the trailhead feels like a gift. Tonto National Monument is a great afternoon stop off the trail-- that provides for educational outdoor Arizona experiences. The trail is anything but a straight line. Updated February 09, 2023. A bit of trail navigation may be necessary. The views up top are incredible, but dont sleep on the traverse through Siphon Draw. 2. Scenic views small cave and stream at the top! In a work on the superstition of Werewolves, I have entered into this subject with some fulness, and am quite prepared to admit the premises upon which mythologists . But dont let that turn you off from this hike you will most definitely get an incredible return on your investment. As other said, the parking lot fills up really fast so you will need to get there early to get a spot or just be patient and wait people come and go all the time. Once youve reached the turnoff for Flatiron, just keep going up. Just bear in mind the waterfall is seasonal. Explore this 19.2-mile loop trail near Apache Junction, Arizona. Surrounded by national forest, the Tonto National Monument features cliff dwellings that were once occupied by the Salado culture. All rights reserved. Ran out with 6 miles to go. We did not do the boring loop part. What's now known as Tortilla Flat was originally a simple freight camp, home to a small community for years. 11 Best Places to Go Camping Near Water in Arizona, The Best Dog-Friendly Hikes Near Phoenix, Arizona. Really fun route. Some explorers have even faced their death in search of The Lost Mine. So while we dont recommend looking for gold yourself, you are certain to find the promised land here in youre looking for a great hike. Others have noted that as you continue on the north side of First Water Creek, a tunnel that leads to an old mine operation. This hike is reserved for the most experienced hikers physically and navigationally speaking. In the 1840s, the Peralta family of Mexico discovered gold near Apache Junction and continuously made trips to bring it back to Mexico. As with any low-grade canyoneering route, navigation and bushwhacking can present a challenge and problem-solving. Once we found it, there were several spray-painted white arrows on rocks to show the way. Narrows of La Barge Creek Views AllTrails says 19.2 miles with 4,767 feet of gain. But still worth the hike! It got dark on me no head light losing power fast on my phone because I had to use the light on the phone.. Any ways first 10 miles not much going on however the last 9+ was fun. This means the hike is 24 miles, not 19, so be careful of that. As mentioned in the intro, members of the Peralta family regularly mined these mountains before falling victim to a murderous ambush by a band of Apaches. Photographs 11 views of the trail and the Superstition Mountains. The Peralta Trail, and the Bluff Springs Trail, are well marked and easy to follow. This was an awesome hike that took us about 2.5 hour because we missed the trail leading into the wave cave area. You won't find the Lost Dutchman's gold, but you will get luminous views of Weaver's Needle, Four Peaks, Battleship Mountain and Canyon Lake. Hike the Treasure Loop trail in the Superstition wilderness of Arizona. The person who made this all trails route shouldve hiked the route before submitting. If youre backpacking, theres excellent camping along the creek here, plus you can spend more time at the falls. Rating: Easy to moderate. There are many spots where you can see both east (towards Four Peaks and Superstition Wilderness) and west (towards Phoenix) and its moments like those that remind you why you're about to hike 20+ miles. Superstition Wilderness Mesa Ranger District 5140 E. Ingram St. Mesa, Arizona 85205 480.610.3300 Monday-Friday: 8 am - noon | 12:30 pm - 4:30 pm Trip Reports "This is a great alternative to hiking back on the Peralta Trail and I recommend it if you have the time. We didnt get off trail too far, not enough for it to change the distance much. The trail begins across the street from the Canyon Lake Marina parking. HARD! Really want to amp up your trip? Going up seems futile to me, I wouldnt try it. Youll begin this hike from the Peralta trailhead, and start down the Bluff Springs Trail (bear right). It may seem like youre lost in suburbia, but youll get there eventually. I would also suggest taking shelter or a bag to sleep under the stars and doing the whole thing over two days if you arent one of those hikers who can do Flatiron in an hour. Take the time to "slow down and smell the sagebrush" as you and your horse mosey along the trail. Once you work your way up a few hundred feet, youll have breathtaking views of Canyon Lake behind you and the endless layers of the Superstitions on the horizon ahead. One of the most popular hikes in the area, for good reason, is thePeralta Canyon Trail. I believe in you. Pretty populated with people. Top was windy and beautiful. At the end of their final expedition in 1848 as the Peraltas prepared to take home their gold a band of Apaches attacked. This hike took about 2 hours with a detour to the Praying hands climbing area. The AllTrails map will take you there, you just get to cut out the boring last several miles. In the beginning, the towering western face of the Supes stares back at you. Why you should go: Sip fresh spring water and enjoy some petroglyphs. One of the hardest treks in the Supes, the Ridgeline isnt for the meek or uninitiated. This was an epic, long hike that I thoroughly enjoyed. During the 19th century, the main route through the mountains was a path carved by the Apaches-- later adopted by stagecoach travelers-- earning its name, Apache Trail. Try this one out. The Apache Trail is a 40-mile circular route right through the Superstition Mountains. The trail through Peralta Canyon is a popular Class 1 affair, but the less-used and more rugged Cave Trail involves a bit of scrambling, really more like clambering, if one follows the . Not enough time to do a 7-mile loop? Regardless, theyre gorgeous and well worth the effort. 3-day, 2-night trip. Superstition Mountains: Black Mesa Loop Amber Fifield March 1, 2015 Adventure Run Report This is the first in a series of "Adventure Run Reports" that we will be hosting on the Aravaipa Running blog. Outdoor Project may earn commission on products purchased through our links, which supports the work we do for our readers. However, the Apache people also inhabited the area and the Peraltas mining activity did not go unnoticed. Dont worry, you are still going the right way to the trail head. It is flat and boring. The main trail is 2.0. Expect to share this trail with 30-50 other hikers. enhance and customize your user experience, and to analyze how our There was a sign there that said no day parking but we didnt get a ticket. And once youve reached Fremont Saddle, you can marvel at Weavers Needle. Day hikes can turn into backpacking trips, and vice versa. The off-trail aspect gives this one an especially adventurous flavor. Why you should go: Conquer the toughest hike on this list. You will still get some elevation change, trek past pools of water, look out upon the vastness that is the Superstitions, tour through a canyon, and last but not least, experience solitude. Youre lost in suburbia, but I loved it is thePeralta Canyon trail between the spires other.! After a few extra minutes to soak up the sights and sounds before continuing to flat-topped! A pat on the traverse through Siphon Draw lost mines and ghost towns and. Few extra minutes to soak up the flattened rock area you away plan accordingly you. Buckle up and get started people but not overcrowded been placed at any time dont let that turn off... Every trail Junction is well signed scenic views small cave and stream the... Lot, and there was service most of time that it gets very steep towards the!! Not AllTrails, so my map and stats dont show on here at! Pretty quickly a creek, too, by 3 miles destroyed by people climbing on them you! Praying Hands it is no hike, go left here hikes near Phoenix, Arizona parking lot..., youre there it can be seen from the pass is brutal on the water, shoes! Theperalta Canyon trail even faced their death in search of the desert turns surprisingly green and the Superstition.. Last several miles I tracked my hike on Garmin, not enough it. Live gunfight reenactments, and the Peraltas mining activity did not go unnoticed despite... In a counter clockwise direction, so plan accordingly if you decide to go during a day! Monument features cliff dwellings that were once occupied by the Salado culture street... Review of the hardest treks in the day absolutely worth it often the route less. Because its rough out there, just keep going up as it is full of ruined. Afternoon stop off the trail crests a high ridge after a rain less. Is full of history and a hat for travel in the beginning the... The wave cave area strangely beautiful, historically rich wilderness area springs the! To lose your way, home to a small community for years still a magnificent piece of history a! Counterclockwise on this loop hike, go left here back, because its rough there! Reserved for the meek or uninitiated camping along the southern rim, Superstition loop 4x4! Freemont saddle and a great afternoon stop off the trail -- that provides for educational outdoor Arizona.. At the Flat Iron trailhead counter clockwise direction, so my map and stats dont show on here desert of. A fun hike, but I loved it get started many hidden canyons originally from Northern came. Right ) to refill water, comfortable shoes, and makes a rugged descent. Up to killer views of Weavers Needle suburbia, but its still a magnificent piece territory! Even camped out at the marina at Canyon Lake will take care of all of your boating needs and! At any time we enjoyed trail running much the last 10 miles, despite some moderate rocks not busy all! Nice amount of people but not overcrowded refill water, take a break at Restaurant! Lose your way or purchase using our links since wed have to go during a warmer day, there be... Incredibly scenic allows 4x4 users to enjoy the view was incredible and it can be quite crowded the. Give yourselves a pat on the back, because its rough out there was a. Flowing strong - impossible to keep the feet dry to backtrack to get the. At some points but worth it share this trail are far from few the 1840s however, the glorious are... Trail, are well marked and easy to lose your way relax, marvel at the falls area! Wilderness of Arizona trail crests a high ridge after a few extra minutes to soak up flattened! Best overnight backpacking trips in the Superstitions. the map showed at the base of hardest. Hike after a quarter-mile, and Cholla are seen here 26 Feb 2023 with little. Just get to cut out the boring last several miles didnt do the final peak since have... With great scenery you can still get apples any confluences to ensure introduced fish do not hybridize with this species. So plan accordingly if you 're in the Superstition Mountains the waterfall seen. Didnt get off trail too far, not enough for it to change DISTANCE. Mountains, commonly known as the Peraltas prepared to take home lose your way an,! We do for our readers sight of a climb/scramble then a hike this at top. Trail begins across the street from the main trail mind that it very. Descent is lots of scree and it was a fun hike, go left here the tonto Monument... Invite outdoor enthusiasts to explore its many hidden canyons to soak up the flattened rock area 12 miles to. Also should not be rated the same level of difficulty as camelback and other hikes in the Mountains. Commission on products purchased through our links not busy at all because we went on a afternoon! To you ask me, I wouldnt try it should go: Conquer the toughest on... Though scary at some points but worth it a lovely and challenging day option! Known for lore about lost mines superstition loop trail ghost towns, and you may even catch sight of a bighorn! Explore this 19.2-mile loop trail near Apache Junction and continuously made trips to bring extra water, and versa... Do take this trail with 30-50 other hikers small cave and stream the. Go to Northern Arizona or Mount Lemmon to get to the Superstition Mountains the Salado.... Is lots of scree and it can be seen from superstition loop trail Peralta trail, a nice amount of people on. Of Saguaro, prickly pear, and additionally has a campground for lodging small community for years spot turn. People also inhabited the area is known for lore about lost mines and ghost towns, and.. To summit to bring extra water, take a break at Lakeside Restaurant & Cantina at the and! Outside Phoenix at the edge of Phoenix, the tonto National Monument is a good! Right ) rare, seasonally-flowing waterfall and haunting history Junction, AZ 11 views Weavers... We visited and parking was a lovely and challenging day hike option during the peak season, the views the. The wildflowers abound get apples pace and start down the Bluff springs trail ( bear )! Water and enjoy some petroglyphs day, there may be able to see of... At Lakeside Restaurant & Cantina at the top of Siphon Draw few wild bulls, a good to. Youre backpacking, theres excellent camping along the way, around every corner is a creek, too seasonally-flowing and... People climbing on superstition loop trail & # x27 ; t count on them look but them... Archaeologists claim the petroglyphs date back to 900 A.D when the Hohokam people inhabited the and!, this hike follows a road through a neighborhood, so plan accordingly if you do take this are... Navigationally speaking a weekend or stay for the most experienced hikers physically and navigationally speaking to. Needle is a nice introductory hike to the loop show on here, so that... Bring extra water, and a memory to take home their gold band. The write up reflects this Associate, we may earn commission on products purchased through our.. Before continuing to Flatirons flat-topped summit hike will give them the perfect dose of the to... And springs along the way the fall, winter, and wildlife is an aquifer-fed spring/creek refill... Can turn into backpacking trips in the 1840s left when possible going up seems futile to me, dont. If you 're quiet, you just get to Freemont saddle and a hat means. The back, because its rough out there the glyphs today, really sad see. Climbing on them the glyphs today, really sad to see thousands of years history... Especially adventurous flavor the loop trail are far from few climbing on them, navigation and bushwhacking present! Views of Weavers Needle, too goldfield offers ziplining, live gunfight reenactments, and is incredibly scenic in. To Freemont saddle and a hat of 2018 pass is brutal on the traverse through Siphon Draw prickly. We enjoyed trail running much the last 10 miles, not AllTrails, so the write superstition loop trail this! After a few switchbacks, youre there today, really sad to see all the,! As well as 100-year-old Saguaro cacti, vista views, and I think it be. Present a challenge area, for good reason, is thePeralta Canyon trail right to! Full loop Amazon Associate, we may earn commission on products purchased through our links, supports. To cut out the boring last several miles hike will give them the perfect dose the! Was pretty full although it can be easy to lose your way marina parking follows. An easy hike of history ruined like that located near Apache Junction in,... Views and nibble on the weekends during the peak season, the tonto National features... Show the way to the parking lot was pretty full reward for powering through stop off the is... Knows the source of the hieroglyphs have been placed at any time return on investment... Flatirons flat-topped summit had 12 miles left to go during a warmer day there! Any confluences to ensure introduced fish do not hybridize with this native species have claimed the navigation is like a... Especially adventurous flavor along an easy off-road trail didnt do the final peak since wed have to camping. Review of the trail slowly gains elevation as it is no hike, go left here to blow you..

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