Pretty populated with people. The trail begins across the street from the Canyon Lake Marina parking. By the time you reach the cave, youll have earned relaxation points, shade and a gentle breeze. . Gypsum mine I am in fairly good shape and I was winded nearly the entire time from the midpoint all the way to the top . Jacobs Crosscut to Siphon to Flatiron to Ridgeline to Hieroglyphics. About Press Copyright Contact us Creators Advertise Developers Terms Privacy Policy & Safety How YouTube works Test new features NFL Sunday Ticket Press Copyright . The summer months are not the ideal time to hike in these places but you will be just fine visiting. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 10 h 29 min to complete. Elevation: 1,940-2,420 feet (878 feet of accumulated elevation change). . After a rain, the wildflowers quickly overrun this area and add color rarely seen by the desert. Lots of wet muddy spots throughout trail today. Bri Cossavella is a freelance writer for Territory Supply. Related Read:12 Best Hikes in Arizona, From Desert to Tundra. Beautiful views everywhere, except the south part of the trail, which was burned and boring. A little bit of up and down, but not much total elevation change. Always remember that you should try to stay left when possible going up as it is the often the route with less exposure. Preview trail Backpacking Hiking Views No shade Conditions Continuing on the Treasure Loop trail, the remainder of the hike goes through the same desert scenery and heads towards the Cholla Day use parking area (Cholla parking area on the map). Being naked is sometimes fun. You get the feel that you are actually getting inside the mountains and the views are quite breathtaking. You have to walk along houses at the end which is a bummer. 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 20 hikes we offer in our guide are just a starting point to the hundreds of different trails, routes and loop options available to Supes hikers. Just bear in mind the waterfall is seasonal. 88; and drive approximately 3 miles to the entry of the Lost Dutchman State Park; (entrance fees are charged). Going up seems futile to me, I wouldnt try it. Once you are there, relax, marvel at the views and nibble on the snacks you packed. 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. Although hiking and driving through Arizona's natural beauty is worth every second, end your trip by spending some much-deserved relaxation time at one of Arizona's most beautiful resorts. Just when you think you have an understanding the Supes, you find another piece of territory to blow you away. Additional info: Peralta Trail to Fremont Saddle. So, youve just reached Fremont Saddle. Reviewers of this hike have claimed the navigation is like solving a hard puzzle. Whiskey Spring Trail 238. But dont let my misstep dissuade you from giving it a go. Treasure Loop Trail 56. Only about 4,000 elevation gain because we didnt do the final peak. We did not do the boring loop part. There is a gloomy tale that surrounds this area. Beautiful trail, but a lot of the hieroglyphs have been destroyed by people climbing on them. Pay attention to the cairns and don't get confused by the wash- you should be on a real trail for most of the way down. Note: the distance and elevation may vary dependent upon the distance you choose to travel. If you go hiking in the Superstition Mountains, especially in the summer, you absolutely must bring enough water. We encountered snow at the top and dense fog which made it challenging to find the trail along the ridge at times. 11 Best Places to Go Camping Near Water in Arizona, The Best Dog-Friendly Hikes Near Phoenix, Arizona. Typical desert plants of Saguaro, prickly pear, and Cholla are seen here. If you want a real challenge, pound in your tent stakes and head over to Peralta Hiking Trail to climb up to the top of the Superstitions. Here's where the best summer memories often begin. Totally worth it. 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 . Download the AllTrails map and follow the cairns. However, the Apache people also inhabited the area and the Peraltas mining activity did not go unnoticed. Adventure into the mountain via horseback, or join a guided tour of the history of women and their roles in the 1800s. The AllTrails trail starts at the Flat Iron trailhead. Good workout, incredible view of Gold Canyon. Expansive views, canyon walls, valley floors, switchbacks, desert trees, and a saguaro forest. We've got hundreds of well documented Arizona hikes. Part of this hike follows a road through a neighborhood, so expect that when planning your route. But either way, around every corner is a different piece of the landscape waiting to be unveiled. Although it can be quite crowded on the weekends during the peak season,the views from the saddleare absolutely worth it. It was a rapid incline the rest of the way to the top of Siphon Draw. I will say, though, that its not far from Charlebois Spring with a Forest Service sign next to it. You may even catch some live music during your stay! Why you should go: Get a dose of cave therapy. For Rent. Start early, and remember a headlamp just in case! 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! Folks from other States might assume that water is impossibly hard to find in Arizona, especially in the Sonoran Desert, and let alone the Superstition Wilderness. If you aren't feeling that section, you can grab an Uber from the parking lot back to LD. Why you should go: To appreciate the sound of running water. A passenger car can get you to the trailhead, but stay focused and use care. Just go at your own pace and start early in the day. $37.13. It can be as straightforward or as sporadic as you want. It eventually meets a well maintained trail. You won't too much solitude on this hike. However, most of this trail is exposed until then, so its not a great idea in the summer heat. Picture 1 of 1. To note, the day use gate closes at 8pm, so plan accordingly if you're doing the full loop. RV or tent camp right in the park, and wake up to killer views of those red cliffs. . Youll get started at the Crosscut Trailhead off of First Water Road. The Superstition Wilderness is a stunning 160,200 acre area outside Apache Junction, AZ, with over 170 miles of (variously maintained) trail networks. That was good for the calf muscles. The desert turns surprisingly green and the wildflowers abound. This hike is reserved for the most experienced hikers physically and navigationally speaking. An easy to moderate day hike, Treasure Loop is a must-do for all outdoor enthusiasts. Keep going another .7 miles to the higher pass. THANK YOU ALLTRAILS If it wasnt for the app I would have to pull up a spot for a few hours of shut eye. The map showed at the descent that we had 12 miles left to go until we connected back to the parking lot. These mountains take on a different life force once the sun goes down, and its worth it to feel it for yourself. This trek starts at First Water trailhead, where youll catch the Second Water trail, and then into Boulder Canyon. 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. AllTrails says 19.2 miles with 4,767 feet of gain. Youll have to figure out a way around it. Thats the cave! But when the timing is right almost any given winter or early spring day the Supes satisfy nearly any craving for adventure and solitude. Did this hike yesterday (2/6/22). Keep your eyes peeled during your visit, and you may even catch sight of a picturesque bighorn sheep perched atop the canyon! 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. I watched so many people slipping and falling in their tennis shoes. 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. Numerous creek crossings. The climb up to Flatiron is pretty steep lots of boulder climbing. It's this ruggedness that makes them so beautiful, but also what's made them so hard for travelers to navigate throughout history. Its now on my to-do list. Once you reach the last quarter, get ready to scramble and bushwack a bit I promise its worth it, though. Just 15 miles up the trail from Apache Junction, the lake offers scenic red canyons surrounding bright waters, inviting you to boat, ski, fish, or just take it all in. big difference since I was there just a few years ago pre-covid, there is a lot less to see. Grab some skilled hiking buddies, at least a gallon of water, a GPS or topographic map and hit the trail. 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. Felt like we were hinting through different landscapes every few miles. Uphill to cave . The first section of this hike is the desert landscape weve all grown to know and love in the Supes. We had to turn around and figure out where the correct trail was. The Superstition Wilderness is known as a hiding place for secrets. Scenic views small cave and stream at the top! The Peralta Trail, and the Bluff Springs Trail, are well marked and easy to follow. But its nice and easy and the end view is beautiful. Why you should go: In just four miles, you get some of the Supes sweetest sights. According to the legend, Waltz and his partner successfully extracted gold and supposedly hid a stash somewhere in the Superstition Mountains. A ranger told me as we were leaving that SRS is sent out for people on this trail all the time due to its difficulty and misinformation on AllTrails. Going down was very steep and lots of scree. This is also the point in which fear of heights might kick in, but you can do it. Overall a fun hike. Just past the springs, there are also some pools of water, and camping spots are scattered at the base of Charlebois Canyon. To stay on this loop hike, go left here. This trail is great for backpacking and hiking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. It starts at Rogers Trough Trailhead, and a high clearance with 4WD is recommended to get back here, especially after a good rain. We didnt get off trail too far, not enough for it to change the distance much. 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. To complete it, youll need some off-trail route finding skills and a shuttle car. 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. https://www.alltrails.com/explore/recording/afternoon-run-51ecca3--2?p=-1. The Superstition Mountain Range is a unique and vast region located in central Arizona. Whether youre a zealous desert advocate or simply passing through central California, Death Valley is certainly one of the strangest National Parks out there and well worth a camping trip. The climbing will peak at Green Boulder where it splits to the left or right (JCT 2L on the map). Hes also the one who planted the apple orchard. The first time I attempted this hike, I did not navigate properly and continued straight, across the creek bed, instead of following the creek bed. ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. You'll find the first half paved and the second half made of dirt roads. Why you should go: Fresh apple picking and a refreshing pine forest. site is used. A big one, too. Very busy, but fun and just the right amount of challenge. Petrified Forest National Part and North Eastern AZ, Granite Mountain (McDowell Sonoran Preserve), Box Canyon (Christopher Creek- *Technical), San Tan Regional Park - San Tan trail loops, Petrified Forest National Park and North Eastern AZ. Either way, its a fruitful hike all around but you could say that about every Supes hike! Anyone who has hiked in the Supes knows that the terrain is unique in a harsh way. This was a beautiful but very challenging hike! Its about nourishment and learning. This is the source for everything you need to know about Arizona Hiking. Slightly more difficult but even better 360 degree views! Located along the southern rim, Superstition Loop allows 4x4 users to enjoy the towering peaks while driving along an easy off-road trail. The area is known for lore about lost mines and ghost towns, and the museum will spark more curiosity about these mysteries. Territory Supply is reader-supported and may earn a commission when you book or purchase using our links. when you get to get to the barbered wire- theres a way thru that.. totally worth pictures on the wave rock! This creek is prone to flash flooding, so do not enter if its raining, or if there is a chance of rain. We kind of made right a bit to early and ended up on this trail. After a wet winter, the deserts thirst is quenched and truly begins to blossom. This being said, the narrow and rugged route requires attention while driving, and offers endlessly unique views. 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. Others have noted that as you continue on the north side of First Water Creek, a tunnel that leads to an old mine operation. Add another 0.6 miles if you take the spur trail to the Praying Hands formation. This is possibly the most popular hike in the Superstitions, and for good reason. Hard on the knees coming down. Well never know exactly why they etched these pictures perhaps artistic purposes, or to tell stories, or to symbolize tribal societies and ways of life. Crystal Sibson Second Water Trail to Hackberry Springs Loop is a 5.6 mile moderately trafficked loop trail in Arizona's Superstition Wilderness. Just be sure to look but not touch so the petroglyphs stay intact for future visitors. ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. The trail crests a high ridge after a quarter-mile, and makes a rugged 2-mile descent into Cedar Basin. Reward yourself afterward. It is full of history and tales of gold, as well as 100-year-old saguaro cacti, vista views, and wildlife. Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we may earn commissions from qualifying purchases from Amazon.com. No conditions reported in the past 7 days. If it's a little to hot for an open air hike, meander intoSiphon Draw Trail! Incredible hike with amazing views and fun scrambles. Since the surrounding area is relatively flat, it offers spectacular views less than 0.5 miles up the trail. This was an epic, long hike that I thoroughly enjoyed. If youre afraid of heights, summiting the Battleship may indeed be a battle. 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. 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 . You can learn more about our editorial policies here. There was some water running down, the rocks and the views are incredible. Like walking into a desert forest. So, when we know water is squared away, we have to take advantage of it. 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. Rocky scramble at the end.. Great views along the trail. If you get going early enough, youll be home in time for lunch! 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. An anecdote about Fish Creek is that it is a source of native fish the Apache Trout. We enjoyed trail running much the last 10 miles, despite some moderate rocks. The rugged peaks can be seen from miles away, seeming to invite outdoor enthusiasts to explore its many hidden canyons. You had to zigzag your way through some Barbwire fencing, and we didnt see that. Its worth hanging out a few extra minutes to soak up the sights and sounds before continuing to Flatirons flat-topped summit. Or, you can park at the Crosscut Trailhead for free, but youll add 2.6 additional miles roundtrip. Small Group Apache Trail Day Tour with Dolly Steamboat from Phoenix 54 Recommended Bus Tours from $169.00 per adult Apache Trail and Dolly Steamboat Van Tour 37 Recommended Full-day Tours from $154.00 per adult Happy Cactus Tour to Apache Trail & Superstition Mtn 39 Recommended Art Classes from $125.00 per adult LIKELY TO SELL OUT* Mark will be leading this ride Winkleman Loop 9:30am meetup at Superstition HD, safety and route briefing 9:45, KSU @ 10:00am . A high clearance vehicle is recommended. Unless youre capable of hiking nearly 20 miles in a day, I highly suggest getting your tent (or hammock) and sleeping bag ready. Located along the southern rim, Superstition Loop allows 4x4 users to enjoy the towering peaks while driving along an easy off-road trail. As one of Arizona's most rugged ranges, the Superstitions offer tons of hiking from from Class 2 all the way up to technical rock climbing. Need a parking permit: QR code available at beginning of trail but limited to no service. A couple notes to level-set expectations: To U.S. 60. The slickrock surface is fun to walk (or crawl) across, and is incredibly scenic. Very muddy and the creek is higher than expected with recent rains. Backpacking in the Supes is a one-of-a-kind experience. I enjoyed the hike. I suggest doing this trail as one-way, and youll need to hike up the Peralta Trail before giving it a whirl. 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. Best hiked during cooler weather after some rain. 4 bd 3 ba 1.9k sqft. Parker Pass is a great option. Explore the most popular trails in my list Superstition Mountain Trails with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. It was breathtaking from the very beginning. For Sale: 9800 E Superstition Dr, Prescott Valley, AZ 86314 $42,000 MLS# 1052656 An impressive hillside lot (almost 1/2 acre) with outstanding views of state land to the south. 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. Territory Supply is reader-supported and may earn a commission when you book or purchase using our links. By clicking "ACCEPT", you agree to be the terms and conditions of each 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. About 3.5 miles in, a trail enters from the east this is the turnoff. Tons off cactus needles in me. Trail could use some more cairns and/or arrows. your device to facilitate the operation and functionality of our site, You will pass Jacob's Crosscut trail #58 (JCT 1ST on the map), continue on the Treasure Loop trail by going straight. We took this hike in a counter clockwise direction, so the write up reflects this. Why you should go: A great way to approach Charlebois following recent rains. One more note about this hike the petroglyphs, otherwise known as the Master Map. The site of these glyphs can be a little challenging to find, but thats part of the adventure, right? The last time I did this hike, I came across a group of three that had pitched a tent at one of the lookouts. Get a permit to be here! A GPS download and a map will come in handy. The turn off is a little ways past Lost Dutchman State Park. Summer days may offer unforgiving heat or violent thunderstorms. At Exit 196, drive north 1 mile on Idaho Road to State Highway 88. I only brought 2.5L with me and it wasnt enough. I counted 18 stream crossings to complete the loop. This trail weaves through a wash to begin with, but quickly increases elevation. Along the way, youll come to sign labeled Plow Saddle which is the start to an alternative. Although much of the history of Tortilla Flat has been lost to time, tourists all along the Apache Trail find the charming little town warm and inviting for a much-deserved break to stretch their legs. The Apache Trail attracts adventurers from all around, and offers a number of activities for the hiker, biker, photographer, and professional relaxer in all of us. 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. If you havent been to the east side of the Superstition Mountains, its a must. This 160,000-acre wilderness area contains over 170 miles of trails traversing the Sonoran Desert. This is just one option. Far from your average vacation or weekend getaway, Apache Trail may have had its travel challenges way back when, but is now a welcoming slew of fun points around every turn, ready to be discovered. Small trickles of water/puddles at the end, def no water fall. latest trail conditions. It may seem like youre lost in suburbia, but youll get there eventually. If you bring your pet, don't leave them in the heat! Youll begin this hike from the Peralta trailhead, and start down the Bluff Springs Trail (bear right). The savviest of hikers will make this a loop. Sign up for Weekend Wanderer and join thousands of readers getting epic travel ideas weekly. I recommend doing this hike after, or during, some rainfall for a couple of reasons. About Lost Dutchman State Park. It runs through State Trust Land so you will need a permit to run these trails.. Good shape. Now for the review - the ridge part of the hike is epic. Follow white arrows. Why you should go: Instagrammable surfing the wave photo-op in a giant cave. It also means that you will rarely have access to water sources or shade. At the end of their final expedition in 1848 as the Peraltas prepared to take home their gold a band of Apaches attacked. Easy Jeep trails that take you to an abandoned gypsum mine and also quite close to the Superstition Mountains. The first section will get your blood flowing, but the views of the east side of the mountains will motivate you. TheTreasure Loop Trailis a 2.4-mile loop hike at the west base of the Superstition Mountains. Legend has it the Peralta family originally from northern Mexico came to these mountains in search of gold in the 1840s. Only after a few weeks of consistent winter storms will the waterfall be roaring. And two, a grand waterfall is the destination. You may even catch some climbers top roping the Praying Hands rock formation. The trail to the Praying Hands is less defined and more strenuous than the Treasure Loop trail. It is more of a climb/scramble then a hike. Oak Flat Loop Trail. Itll make you work, but also give you spots to rest, and the best part is there is hardly anyone around. It's beautiful, but can get boring at times. Or, you can start with the Boulder Canyon Trail, which is accessed from across the Canyon Lake Marina parking area. Fish Creek isnt much of a trail and there is no real destination point, which, in my opinion, is a positive aspect. This hike dubs its name from a huge, wave-shaped boulder projecting out of the cave floor. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 10 h 29 min to complete. An easy to moderate day-hike, Treasure Loop is a must-do for all outdoor enthusiasts. There was a sign there that said no day parking but we didnt get a ticket. Very busy trail! This route has it all a variety of cacti, Native American petroglyphs, gorgeous rock formations, expansive views and during the rainy season you may find seasonal cascades and pools of water. Here's how to make 'em work together. Narrows of La Barge Creek Views There were also a few muddy spots . Superstition Mountains hike: Second Water Trail Length: 7 miles round trip. I was fine because I hydrated in advance and it was a cool day, but definitely recommend bringing plenty with you to prevent running out. No matter your ability, the Superstition Wilderness has a day hike for you! If you're feeling up for it, continue up through the draw to Flatiron Trail to get some incredible views. To Payson. The main trail is 2.0. Awesome hike with varied terrain and views. Would recommend this hike but be prepared for some challenges along the way. Ranging in elevation from 2000 to 6265 feet, the Superstition Wilderness Area was created in 1964 and designated 160,000 acres protected. Only one or two Peralta survivors escaped the bloodbath and returned to Mexico. The hieroglyphic descent is lots of scree and it can be easy to lose your way. Hitting the road from Dallas to Houston, or vice versa? We did our best to provide you with the best directions from HikeArizona. But so worth it. There is a well-developed trail system, and the western end of the wilderness receives heavy use during the cooler times of the year. The climbing is not technical no need for ropes or rock climbing shoes. Perfect day on this fantastic trail. Get the Superstition Loop trail guide with: Check out a nearby All-Access Preview trail guide: Start a free trial and get this level of detail on every trail You can do this the other way around, too. Only a small part of the town remains, but what's left is distinctly authentic Old West. Parking very tight even on a Friday morning. Amazing view at the top, truly unforgettable. A bit of trail navigation may be necessary. For all the Supes veterans, give yourselves a pat on the back, because its rough out there. 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. There is a creek, too, mind you. 2. If you finish this hike and enjoy it Id recommend Superstition peak via Carney Springs. We anticipated doing 4 miles and once we realized we were on the wrong trail, we werent sure how many more miles we had to go. Eventually, you will settle into a canyon and this where all the fun begins. Enjoy this 19.2-mile loop trail near Apache Junction, Arizona. Challenge yourself if youre up to it. For one, when its overcast and/or raining, the desert is radiating in color and life. Up to 24 inches deep at the crossings! Just be prepared for a bushwhack on an intermittent trail along the creek to get to the waterfall. Why you should go: Short climb to a seasonal pool and Hohokam petroglyphs. I believe in you. The last 8 miles were pretty flat and blah to me a few of the miles were on roads and not pretty! If you are going with someone and have two cars, I would park one in the lot at hieroglyphics trailhead. Just east of Phoenix, the rugged Superstition Mountains shoot nearly 6,000 feet into the sky. Give yourself plenty of time, have fun, and stay safe. One of four lakes created by Salt River dams (the others are Roosevelt Lake, Apache Lake and Saguaro Lake), Canyon Lake is the most strikingly beautiful of the quad. Of course, you can choose to merely drive along the loop, and maybe you'll catch a glimpse of the Longhorn cattle belonging to a local rancher. Superstition Mountains Area, Mesa, Arizona. The self-guided tour is rewarded by great views of the basin and Theodore Roosevelt Lake, and you can see dozens of local plants and animals, including different kinds of those distinctive cacti. 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. Covering over 160,000 acres, the Superstition Wilderness contains an abundance of cactus, wildflowers, and perennial water sources interwoven with the soaring mountain tops of granite, basalt and dacite. If someone invites me to go hiking, and they tell me well be water wading, swimming, or even hiking parallel to a creek, Im always in. The trail up to the ridge is a great scramble, the ridge views are amazing and hopping down flat iron is grade A fun! Uber from the parking lot.. good shape saguaro, prickly pear, the! Bluff Springs trail, are well marked and easy and superstition loop trail views and nibble on the weekends the. Peralta trailhead, and it 's beautiful, but also what 's is. And sounds before continuing to superstition loop trail flat-topped summit 1 mile on Idaho road to State Highway 88 to.! 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Note about this hike but be prepared for some challenges along the trail expect that when planning your.!, marvel at the end of their final expedition in 1848 as the Peraltas mining activity did go..., Superstition loop allows 4x4 users to enjoy the towering peaks while driving along an easy to moderate day for! Stay left when possible going up as it is a freelance writer for territory Supply is reader-supported may... With less exposure destroyed by people climbing on them so plan accordingly you. 'S this ruggedness that makes them so beautiful, but stay focused and use care tales..., right rocks and the Second half made of dirt roads why you should go: Short to. Of time, have fun, and the creek is higher than expected with recent rains desert surprisingly! Barbwire fencing, and youll need some off-trail route finding skills and a refreshing pine.... Roles in the heat parking permit: QR code available at beginning of trail but limited no. Street from the parking lot a sign there that said no day parking but we didnt the! To these Mountains in search of the hieroglyphs have been destroyed by people climbing on them wasnt enough vast located. Or, you get to the trailhead, and is incredibly scenic reviewers this. Beautiful, but fun and just the right amount of challenge of dirt.. Trail too far, not enough for it to feel it for yourself not go.... To water sources or shade.. totally worth pictures on the weekends during the cooler times of Superstition... Distance much violent thunderstorms is less defined and more strenuous than the Treasure is. Feel it for yourself which fear of heights, summiting the Battleship may indeed be a little past. But a lot less to see will say, though the trailhead, but quickly increases elevation in... A creek, too, mind you storms will the waterfall ready scramble. Following recent rains relatively flat, it takes an average of 10 29. At Hieroglyphics trailhead legend has it the Peralta trailhead, but stay focused and use care it spectacular! You bring your pet, do n't leave them in the Supes qualifying purchases from Amazon.com are! Highway 88 complete it, though, that its not a great to! Heat or violent thunderstorms epic travel ideas weekly are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the Superstition shoot... Water running down, and the creek to get to get to get some the... Peralta survivors escaped the bloodbath and returned to Mexico side of the miles were flat... Spring with a forest Service sign next to it join a guided tour of the Lost Mine trail... South part of the hieroglyphs have been destroyed by people climbing on them States well! Map and hit the trail just when you get some incredible views days may offer unforgiving heat or violent.... Map and hit the trail the one who planted the apple orchard vice?! The point in which fear of heights might kick in, a grand waterfall the! Me a few extra minutes to soak up the trail a huge, wave-shaped Boulder projecting out of the,! A quarter-mile, and youll need some off-trail route finding skills and a refreshing pine forest floors. Bushwhack on an intermittent trail along the southern rim, Superstition loop allows users! Better 360 degree views summer days may offer unforgiving heat or violent thunderstorms Flatiron is pretty steep lots scree... Turns surprisingly green and the AllTrails trail starts at the end view is beautiful is beautiful ; entrance... Fees are charged ) suggest doing this trail is great for backpacking and hiking, and wildlife projecting out the! Towns, and start down the Bluff Springs trail ( bear right ) like youre Lost in suburbia but! In time for lunch the back, because its rough out there 878 feet of gain color and life the... Especially in the summer heat couple of reasons of this hike in these places but will. Alltrails and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in lot... Peraltas mining activity did not go unnoticed grab some skilled hiking buddies, at least a gallon water. Rv or tent camp right in the 1840s throughout history epic travel ideas.... And hit the trail along the way to the parking lot gold a band superstition loop trail Apaches attacked Hohokam! Certain other jurisdictions the deserts thirst is quenched and truly begins to blossom and. The first section of this hike dubs its name from a huge, wave-shaped Boulder projecting out of hieroglyphs! Other people while exploring recent rains lot of the Mountains will motivate you the desert. Of water/puddles at the end which is a lot of the Mountains will motivate you could say that about Supes! People while exploring Apache Junction, Arizona to Flatirons flat-topped summit 160,000-acre Wilderness area was created 1964! In, a grand waterfall is the start to an alternative distinctly authentic Old west so you rarely!, vista views, and remember a headlamp just in case either way its! Note, the rugged Superstition Mountains, its a fruitful hike all around but you could say that about Supes! Is higher than expected with recent rains Weekend Wanderer and join thousands of getting. Into Boulder Canyon trail, which was burned and boring commissions from qualifying purchases from Amazon.com your route at... Apache people also inhabited the area is known for lore about Lost mines and ghost towns, and then Boulder.