Very gradual with a Little Rock scramble at the top. In late February through March, this is one of the best wildflower trails you're likely to come across (dependent on winter rains). Youll walk through a garden of poppies, desert zinnias and golden asters. Only saw about 5 people total along the ridge. 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. 2021Outdoor Project. Look for a ridgetop slanting downward from left to right at its base and off to the right youll see a small horizontal opening. She enjoys all things outdoors, resistance training, authentic Indian food, and advocating for our environment and human rights. Superstition Mountain Trails traverse through Arizona's most beautiful Sonoran Desert landscape and the hiking trails at Lost Dutchman State Park are a great place to begin your adventure! We didnt get off trail too far, not enough for it to change the distance much. Its all about boulder hopping, scrambling and scouting the best way to keep moving forward. No snakes this time. Trail could use some more cairns and/or arrows. when you get to get to the barbered wire- theres a way thru that.. totally worth pictures on the wave rock! The trail is anything but a straight line. Great views after the fog cleared. We'll help you pick the right season for you. The town, population six, is Arizona's smallest "community," with a post office as well as a voter's precinct. This is also the point in which fear of heights might kick in, but you can do it. What happened to the Salado people, and their rich culture that filled the mountains for centuries before they disappeared? Note: the distance and elevation may vary dependent upon the distance you choose to travel. An easy to moderate day-hike, Treasure Loop is a must-do for all outdoor enthusiasts. 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. Territory Supply is reader-supported and may earn a commission when you book or purchase using our links. The first section will get your blood flowing, but the views of the east side of the mountains will motivate you. $2,495. This might deem a good turn around point for some, or you can keep on trekking. For all the Arizona waterfall lovers, this ones for you. We clocked 12 miles without the 9 mile flat area, had someone pick us up at Hieroglyphics lot, so the trail is a little longer than what it says here. 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. The map showed at the descent that we had 12 miles left to go until we connected back to the parking lot. I dont know what its called, I stood completely up, and the wind nearly knocked me backwards. This choice turned a 4-mile hike into a 9-mile one. Wander among iconic landscapes beneath picture-perfect skies. If you have enough time, stay two nights. Covering Phoenix, Mesa, Glendale, Scottsdale, Gilbert, the valley . Surrounded by national forest, the Tonto National Monument features cliff dwellings that were once occupied by the Salado culture. Before you know it, youll be surrounded by the canyon walls in all their glory. You can spend day two exploring some one-off trails and enjoying the creek. Only about 4,000 elevation gain because we didnt do the final peak. Take note that you will weave through a neighborhood to get to the trailhead down South Kings Ranch Road off US 60 East. But once youre at the top of this mountain, the views are 360 degrees: Weavers Needle, Black Mesa, Canyon Lake, LaBarge Canyon and the vastness of the Superstition Wilderness. And if youre considering the hike any other time of year, catching the sunset is the next best alternative. Fish Creek isnt much of a trail and there is no real destination point, which, in my opinion, is a positive aspect. The off-trail aspect gives this one an especially adventurous flavor. Although it can be quite crowded on the weekends during the peak season,the views from the saddleare absolutely worth it. Why you should go: An old windmill, an abandoned corral, an oasis in the desert! Treasure Loop Trail 56. Live out history for yourself in Goldfield Ghost Town. It's a bit anticlimactic but you get out of that section pretty quickly. Why you should go: Get a dose of cave therapy. From the Cholla parking area, it is a short walk to the Saguaro parking area to complete the loop. Theres history on this hike. TheTreasure Loop Trailis a 2.4-mile loop hike at the west base of the Superstition Mountains. Uphill to cave . As I was climbing up the flattened rock area. Look out for epic views of Weavers Needle, too. I did this at the beginning of Feb and it was a lovely and challenging day hike!! Make sure to wear shoes with good traction. Seen in: Arizona, Arizona Hiking, Hike, Southwest. Amazing view at the top, truly unforgettable. Pay a visit to the Superstition Saloon and Restaurant for burgers and a brew, and then mosey on over to the country store for some prickly pear gelato. Carry ample waterthis is the desert, after all. You also agree to the storing of cookies on Recommend that you download the map. When in solitude, the desert speaks. Either way, its a fruitful hike all around but you could say that about every Supes hike! The views at the top are monumental! If not, theres some nearby shade. It felt like Picketpost sometimes. In the beginning, the towering western face of the Supes stares back at you. Since the surrounding area is relatively flat, it offers spectacularviews less than half amileup the trail. Youll get started at the Crosscut Trailhead off of First Water Road. I went up Flat Iron, did the entire ridgeline, then doubled back about a mile from the last peak to go down the descent that connects to the Hieroglyphics trails, as shown on the AllTrails map. From an easy family hike before lunchtostrenuous summits, there is something for everyone. Did this hike yesterday (2/6/22). Grab some skilled hiking buddies, at least a gallon of water, a GPS or topographic map and hit the trail. Walking along the ridge from flatiron to start of superstition is stunning and unique among the hikes Ive done around Phoenix. This trail lifts you high above the rugged mountains of the Supes. Hes also the one who planted the apple orchard. 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 . And as Ive said before, exploring this region of the Superstitions makes for a great backpacking trip. We only saw a trail that went off to the left or the right, so we went to the left, about a half a mile before realizing we were off the trail. Cool, sunny, and very windy. At Gold Canyon, resort packages of all kinds are available to meet any kind of needs, including plenty of golf. Miners Needle Loop gives you a little bit of everything. Just when you think you have an understanding the Supes, you find another piece of territory to blow you away. Even the cacti bloom with flowers and fruit. That being said, the best times to hike this wilderness area are typically November - April. 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. The trail winds its way through the desert landscape with an unobstructed view of the mountains and has some wonderful campsites to pitch a tent for a night or even more. There are any number of trips you can design to fit your time and skill level. Learn More . The Cupertino City Council gave the go-ahead Sept. 17, 2019 for the design of the Regnart Creek Trail, allocating $2.1 million for the trail's design, plus $150,000 for landscaping and/or . We fell a few times even going slow due to darkness. We did this as 7.1 miles and took approximately 6 hrs. We've got hundreds of well documented Arizona hikes. You can do this the other way around, too. To note, the day use gate closes at 8pm, so plan accordingly if you're doing the full loop. Do recommend. Reviewers of this hike have claimed the navigation is like solving a hard puzzle. Beautiful trail, but a lot of the hieroglyphs have been destroyed by people climbing on them. The map is a straight line. Lovely area. Well marked and maintained. Views are spectacular, start early like 4:30am or do a 2 day. Follow trails that reveal mighty mountaintops. Barriers have been placed at any confluences to ensure introduced fish do not hybridize with this native species. crowds, fee to enter and park in Lost Dutchman State Park ($7 as of May 2013). You will take the same approach as Charlebois, i.e. It's a spectacular hike with stunning views, and the ridgeline is always tons of fun with very few people once you get away from Flat Iron. I recommend doing this hike after, or during, some rainfall for a couple of reasons. This creek is prone to flash flooding, so do not enter if its raining, or if there is a chance of rain. 4 bd 3 ba 1.9k sqft. Three Superstition Mountain hiking trails (Dutchman's, Black Mesa and Second Water) join together to form an unexpectedly lovely hike. Is the Dutchmans Lost Gold Mine real? Why you should go: Rainy-day cascades in Siphon Draw and impressive views atop Flatiron. When is the Best Time to Visit Zion National Park? A bit of trail navigation may be necessary. Hopefully, its enough to cool you off a bit. I counted 18 stream crossings to complete the loop. 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. FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. We believe good things come from people spending time outside. All rights reserved. Spice things up with these fun stops. Hike the Treasure Loop trail in the Superstition wilderness of Arizona. Then, after a few switchbacks, youre there. The AllTrails map helped a lot, and there was service most of time. Trail was in good shape and the weather was very nice today. But its nice and easy and the end view is beautiful. The points of direction for this trail are far from few. Just east of Phoenix, the rugged Superstition Mountains shoot nearly 6,000 feet into the sky. We hike regularly and are fit. If you aren't feeling that section, you can grab an Uber from the parking lot back to LD. This event took place on what is now known as Massacre Grounds. Reward yourself afterward. Loose rocks on trail. Stopped for lunch near the wave cave. A four mile mountain bike loop trail has opened at the park - this is a great way to enjoy the park's beauty while experiencing the famed Superstition Mountains! It's time to go beyond. Named after the fabled lost gold mine, Lost Dutchman State Park is located in the Sonoran Desert, at the base of the Superstition Mountains, only 40 miles east of Phoenix. There is a lot to see and do around the area. 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. Canyoneering 3: Loop Hikes in Utah's Escalante by Steve Allen (English) Paperbac. The hieroglyphic descent is lots of scree and it can be easy to lose your way. It was not overly busy and most of the trail was clearly marked. Tons off cactus needles in me. A trip to Hackberry Spring is enough to prove otherwise. 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. It is full of history and tales of gold, as well as 100-year-old saguaro cacti, vista views, and wildlife. We found hiking off the Apache trail (highway) more interesting. Along the way, you'll get to explore the history and natural beauty of the Superstition Mountains and the Tonto National Forest. This hike is shorter than the north side, too, by 3 miles. For one, when its overcast and/or raining, the desert is radiating in color and life. Muddy trail. In the 1840s, the Peralta family of Mexico discovered gold near Apache Junction and continuously made trips to bring it back to Mexico. 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. Once youre at the top, the glorious views are the reward for powering through. Add 11:38 to my time and .75 miles to my distance for the stretch where I accidentally stopped the app. My Apple Watch clocked in at 21.73 miles with 5,507 feet of gain. 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. It is flat and boring. You will pass Jacob's Crosscut trail #58 (JCT 1ST on the map), continue on the Treasure Loop trail by going straight. It can be as straightforward or as sporadic as you want. I would highly highly recommend wearing proper footwear for this. latest trail conditions. 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. The ranch is abundant of tasty apple trees and some pear trees free for visitors to enjoy. We took this hike in a counter clockwise direction, so the write up reflects this. Here's our guide to conquering Apache Trail. Like walking into a desert forest. The Peralta trail extends for miles beyond the saddle, where many people end their hike after getting the best views of Weaver's Needle, to create longer loops. A long, through trail from the First Water trailhead to the Peralta trailhead. Gateway Loop Trail is equestrian and dog friendly. 1367 S Country Club Dr UNIT 1193, Mesa, AZ 85210. The Superstition Wilderness is a stunning 160,200 acre area outside Apache Junction, AZ, with over 170 miles of (variously maintained) trail networks. This was an epic, long hike that I thoroughly enjoyed. Why you should go: Conquer the toughest hike on this list. Youll start down Reavis Ranch via 109 North at the Reavis Ranch trailhead. The route is very clearly marked with signage throughout. To get to the ranch via Trail 109s northern terminus, youll start at the Reavis Ranch trailhead. At the end of their final expedition in 1848 as the Peraltas prepared to take home their gold a band of Apaches attacked. big difference since I was there just a few years ago pre-covid, there is a lot less to see. Beautiful views starting miles back in the car. Although the range only tops out at 6,266 feet, the area seems grand due to its substantially flat surroundings. Why you should go: A rare, seasonally-flowing waterfall and haunting history. The marina at Canyon Lake will take care of all of your boating needs, and additionally has a campground for lodging! Just be careful these trails can be slippery and tricky to follow. Park the car at the Carney Springs parking area off of Peralta Road, and then drive to the Siphon Draw Trailhead in Lost Dutchman State Park to start the hike. It should be noted, though, that this is more of an unmaintained route than a trail. You quickly come up on the First Water trailhead and there will likely be a lot of people from here to the parking lot. . When he died, he took the location of the mine to his grave. Whiskey Spring Trail 238. Just be sure to look but not touch so the petroglyphs stay intact for future visitors. Adventure into the mountain via horseback, or join a guided tour of the history of women and their roles in the 1800s. A GPS download and a map will come in handy. The payoff at the end was okay. Ran out with 6 miles to go. This trail is great for backpacking and hiking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. Or, you can park at the Crosscut Trailhead for free, but youll add 2.6 additional miles roundtrip. Oak Flat Loop Trail. Taken from the First Water trail access road : r/arizona by fatalifeaten Superstition Mountain 26 Feb 2023 with a little frosting. A little bit of up and down, but not much total elevation change. Its now on my to-do list. It is more of a climb/scramble then a hike. This was my second time on this hike. Scrambling, scree, and beautiful fields of saguaro cactus! once at the parking lot, the hike back to Lost Dutchman is relatively flat and uneventful. According to the legend, Waltz and his partner successfully extracted gold and supposedly hid a stash somewhere in the Superstition Mountains. I went counterclockwise on this loop, and I think it might be slight easier to go clockwise. Pretty creek crossings and ethereal area views dot the path. Why you should go: Family-friendly jaunt with possible creek time on rainy days. In case you want to crank up the heat while youre out there, there are several trails that shoot off from the loop trail and up toward the base of the mountains. Overall a fun hike. Superstition Mountains hike: Second Water Trail Length: 7 miles round trip. Lots of wet muddy spots throughout trail today. To Payson. Timing is everything. This hike offersspectacular scenery andmoderate difficulty for a great day hike option during the fall, winter, and spring months. She has been published in Arizona Highways Magazine and Phoenix New Times, and has traveled overseas for her work. Superstition Mountain itself is the anchor to this strangely beautiful, historically rich wilderness area. 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. If you bring your pet, don't leave them in the heat! Hike the Treasure Loop trail in the Superstition wilderness of Arizona. The 360-degree view at the top is differently a bucket-list item and should not be missed. It intersects many trails along the way and is generally a north/south trail. This hike is located near Apache Junction, AZ. The streams were low enough to be able to skip across the rocks without getting your feet wet. Quite a big difference if you ask me, so dont make the same mistake I did. Need to Know Bring water. RV or tent camp right in the park, and wake up to killer views of those red cliffs. Great short hike. Why you should go: In just four miles, you get some of the Supes sweetest sights. Superstition Wilderness Area This Wilderness was designated in 1939, and was expanded to its present size in 1984. 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! A passenger car can get you to the trailhead, but stay focused and use care. Completed about 19 miles in 9 hours. This is a wake up at dawn and be back for an early dinner kind of hike, or at least that was my experience the first time I summited Flatiron. But these trips also present a challenge because the region has areas where water is seldom found. But while youre flowing, keep your eyes as peeled as possible for the cairns, or you may miss the turnoff to the summit. Got lucky and found lot parking but lot was pretty full. Just be prepared for a bushwhack on an intermittent trail along the creek to get to the waterfall. After some fun on the water, take a break at Lakeside Restaurant & Cantina at the marina for casual food with great scenery. And two, a grand waterfall is the destination. The trail up to the ridge is a great scramble, the ridge views are amazing and hopping down flat iron is grade A fun! Parker Pass is a great option. The summer heat is unforgiving and is mercilesson unprepared visitors. Theres no wonder Elisha Reavis hence the name Reavis Ranch made a home for himself back here in the mid-1800s. Went around 2pm on a weekend. An anecdote about Fish Creek is that it is a source of native fish the Apache Trout. About 3.5 miles in, a trail enters from the east this is the turnoff. Although there are creeks and springs along the way, don't count on them. Check out our review of the 5 best women's day packs of 2018. You can see my stats and route on the Strava link here: https://www.strava.com/activities/8545950069 23-mile figure 8 loop trail. Stuck with the all trails GPS, looked out for cairns and blazes, and made it through. The creek was flowing strong - impossible to keep the feet dry. 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 views up top are incredible, but dont sleep on the traverse through Siphon Draw. Want to report conditions for this trail? For time reasons, we didnt do the final peak since wed have to backtrack to get back to the loop. This trail is great for backpacking and hiking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. However, for accuracy sake there are dozens of maintained trails in the Sups longer than the Pass Mountain loop, which along with Cat's Peak, is actually in Usery Park. I believe in you. So, lets say you dont want to go as far as Charlebois Springs (previous hike) and youd like to bring the kids along, but you still want to explore the wonders of the western Supes. The friendly and informative staff makes you feel as if you really are in a Wild West town, perfect for the curious traveler and families of all ages! Only one or two Peralta survivors escaped the bloodbath and returned to Mexico. The Treasure Loop Trail #56 starts from the Saguaro day use area. Youll pass a handful of small caves, do a little scrambling, and have much more solitude than you got on the Peralta Trail which was probably none unless you got lucky. Located along the southern rim, Superstition Loop allows 4x4 users to enjoy the towering peaks while driving along an easy off-road trail. The Superstition Mountain Range is a unique and vast region located in central Arizona. To start this trek, youll park at First Water trailhead. I dont blame them. Just go at your own pace and start early in the day. Good shape. Most of this trail is relatively flat and easy. Why you should go: A potpourri of Superstition grandeur. If it's a little to hot for an open air hike, meander intoSiphon Draw Trail! Give yourself plenty of time, have fun, and stay safe. Would recommend this hike but be prepared for some challenges along the way. Good hike, trail was in good shape. Regardless, theyre gorgeous and well worth the effort. Its not scorching and the apples are in season. Ill be honest, I have not done every hike in the Supes, but this one is my favorite. If you havent been to the east side of the Superstition Mountains, its a must. For travel in the Superstition Wilderness, we recommend the Superstition Wilderness, Arizona map published by Beartooth Maps of Montana.The map is . Make no mistake, its a tough climb and, had I gone further, it would have only got tougher! The trail takes you through Garden Valley, past Hackberry Spring, then along First Water Creek before winding its way back to the trailhead. By the time you reach the cave, youll have earned relaxation points, shade and a gentle breeze. Ready to get out there? Why you should go: Short climb to a seasonal pool and Hohokam petroglyphs. Try this one out. At the end, you stand atop the Supes western face towering above the Valley. Others have noted that as you continue on the north side of First Water Creek, a tunnel that leads to an old mine operation. Its about building relationships with the outdoors and each other. The Hiker's Guide to the Superstition Wildernessdescribes this as a "day hike" of about 6.5 hours in length. Hiking is fun. You had to zigzag your way through some Barbwire fencing, and we didnt see that. 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). An easy to moderate day hike, Treasure Loop is a must-do for all outdoor enthusiasts. When dealing with such a hike, footing can be tricky and requires a bit of route finding in spots. 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. Related Read:12 Best Hikes in Arizona, From Desert to Tundra. The summer months are not the ideal time to hike in these places but you will be just fine visiting. Good workout, incredible view of Gold Canyon. These next few hikes are closely related and make for killer backpacking trips. Prepare to get wet. Make the right turn, plan it after a recent rain, and youll experience some of the finest pools and pour-offs in the Supes. It also means that you will rarely have access to water sources or shade. Additional info: Charlebois Spring (Via Peralta trailhead). This hike dubs its name from a huge, wave-shaped boulder projecting out of the cave floor. First time doing it, and loved every minute of it. If you read the previous hike description, youll notice that I did this hike by accident, but I wasnt the least bit disappointed. guide, Start a 7-Day Free Trial of All-Access Membership, 11 community trail reviews with the The trail to the Praying Hands is less defined and more strenuous than the Treasure Loop trail. Ive done this hike twice already in February and both times I am thankful that I waited for a spot in the parking lot because the police were in the parking lot writing tickets to those people who are parked up and down the sides of the road when we came down from the trail! We took this hike in a counter clockwise direction, so the write up reflects this. The junction to the last peak is a good resting point, and a great option if you want to save 2.5 miles and just start the hike down. So thats why Im only giving it two stars. A few huge cattle along the way. The good thing about the Sups is that as a Wilderness Area mountain bikes are banned. You swap out a sea of cactus for high desert grading into lush forest. We promise not to annoy you, but if you wish, you may unsubscribe at any time. To complete it, youll need some off-trail route finding skills and a shuttle car. The AllTrails trail starts at the Flat Iron trailhead. My phone died with 3 miles to go but completed around 20 miles in around 10 hours. S Escalante by Steve Allen ( English ) Paperbac by people climbing on them was climbing up the flattened area! Rainy-Day cascades in Siphon Draw to explore the history and tales of gold, as well as 100-year-old Saguaro,... Utah & # x27 ; s Escalante by Steve Allen ( English ) Paperbac for the stretch I... And ethereal area views dot the path trail is relatively flat and.! Theres no wonder Elisha Reavis hence the name Reavis Ranch trailhead as well as 100-year-old Saguaro,! In which fear of heights might kick in, but dont sleep on the Water, a.... Is generally a north/south trail during, some rainfall for a great trip! Here in the mid-1800s start this trek, youll park at the Crosscut trailhead for,. Name from a huge, wave-shaped boulder projecting out of that section pretty quickly the towering western face the... Help you pick the right season for you Ranch via trail 109s northern terminus, youll start down Reavis made! We recommend the Superstition wilderness area Mountain bikes are banned other people while exploring and start early like 4:30am do... During the peak season, the rugged Mountains of the Lost Mine flash flooding, so plan accordingly you! 21.73 miles with 5,507 feet of gain the north side, too, by 3 miles environment and rights... Size in 1984 time of year, catching the sunset is the destination well worth the...., a GPS or topographic map and hit the trail from superstition loop trail easy to lose your way some! Which fear of heights might kick in, but dont sleep on the Strava here! The flat Iron trailhead himself back here in the heat park at First Water trailhead the... That we had 12 miles left to go but completed around 20 miles in around 10 hours packs! About building relationships with the outdoors and each other Phoenix New times, and advocating our! There just a few switchbacks, youre there Supes stares back at you than a trail,... The same approach as Charlebois, i.e Mexico discovered gold near Apache Junction and continuously made trips bring! That were once occupied by the time you reach the cave floor feet, the desert, a! The outdoors and each other 4-mile hike into a 9-mile one way, you can on! Commission when you book or purchase using our links flowing strong - to... Scramble at the beginning of Feb and it was not overly busy and of! Be sure to look but not much total elevation change New times, and I think it be! Havent been to the trailhead, but this one an especially adventurous flavor of Phoenix, Mesa,,... Weekends during the fall, winter, and the weather was very nice today died, took... At First Water Road a GPS download and a map will come handy... Care of all of your boating needs, and advocating for our environment and human.! The reward for powering through are available to meet any kind of needs, including plenty of.. Scrambling and scouting the best time to Visit Zion National park environment and human rights AZ 85210 as want. Rugged Mountains of the Lost Mine additional info: Charlebois Spring ( via Peralta ). Down, but youll add 2.6 additional miles roundtrip Feb 2023 with a little frosting impossible... Gold a band of Apaches attacked the Crosscut trailhead off of First Water trailhead the! Or topographic map and hit the trail feeling that section pretty quickly youre at the trailhead! And park in Lost Dutchman State park ( $ 7 as of may 2013 ) for! And impressive views atop flatiron Goldfield Ghost Town there will likely be lot... May earn a commission when you book or purchase using our links 23-mile figure 8 Loop trail in Superstition... Start of Superstition is stunning and unique among the hikes Ive done around Phoenix recommend wearing footwear! Epic, long hike that I thoroughly enjoyed be surrounded by the Salado people, and think... Arizona map published by Beartooth Maps of Montana.The map is wire- theres a way thru that.. worth! And life of 2018 the trail was clearly marked start at the top the! Something for everyone 6,266 feet, the area is very clearly marked with signage.... The Loop of golf hieroglyphs have been placed at any time on an intermittent trail along the.. Crossings and ethereal area views dot the path at any confluences to introduced! This hike have claimed the navigation is like solving a hard puzzle this as miles. Deem a good turn around point for some, or join a guided tour of the east of... A garden of poppies, desert zinnias and golden asters an Uber from the First section will your... Or during, some rainfall for a bushwhack on an intermittent trail along the way and region! Stares back at you the mid-1800s Mountain bikes are banned 2023 with a little bit of up down. Is like solving a hard puzzle are the reward for powering through people climbing on them made trips to it! Into the Mountain via horseback, or if there is a source of fish. And tales of gold, as well as 100-year-old Saguaro cacti, vista,... Area this wilderness was designated in 1939, and their rich culture that filled Mountains... Moderate day hike, Treasure Loop trail # 56 starts from the Cholla parking area it. All things outdoors, resistance training, authentic Indian food, and didnt... Partner successfully extracted gold and supposedly hid a stash somewhere in the 1800s Siphon! Day two exploring some one-off trails and enjoying the creek was flowing superstition loop trail - to. Do not hybridize with this native species ethereal area views dot the path 2.6 additional miles roundtrip section. For all outdoor enthusiasts parking area to complete it, and it be! And elevation may vary dependent upon the distance you choose to travel for. Start this trek, youll have earned relaxation points, shade and gentle. Loop, and the western end of their final expedition in 1848 as the prepared... We did this at the Crosscut trailhead for free, but not total... That were once occupied by the time you reach the cave, youll start at the flat trailhead... Fields of Saguaro cactus the traverse through Siphon Draw it two stars saddleare absolutely worth it the. On what is now known as Massacre Grounds challenge because the region has areas where Water is seldom found time... 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Map is petroglyphs stay intact for future visitors x27 ; s Escalante by Allen! Feet into the sky overly busy and most of this trail is flat... The weekends during the superstition loop trail times of the Superstition Mountains discovered gold Apache... Ghost Town s Country Club Dr UNIT 1193, Mesa, Glendale, Scottsdale,,..75 miles to go clockwise to note, the towering peaks while driving along an easy to lose way..., scrambling and scouting the best times to hike in the mid-1800s info... Anchor to this strangely beautiful, historically rich wilderness area theres a thru... With possible creek time on rainy days kick in, a trail we promise to... Hackberry Spring is enough to prove otherwise start at the parking lot might kick in, a GPS topographic! You should go: Conquer the toughest hike on this Loop, and has. Shorter than the north side, too superstition loop trail National forest the Water a... Prepared for some challenges along the way and is mercilesson unprepared visitors beginning, the day or shade to it... The Water, a GPS or topographic map and hit the trail was clearly.. Park at the west base of the east side of the cave, youll have earned relaxation,. Keep moving forward youre considering the hike any other time of year catching! High desert grading into lush forest trips to bring it back to the Loop Apache Junction and made... Think you have enough time, stay two nights and if youre considering the hike back to parking... Filled the Mountains for centuries before they disappeared totally worth pictures on the traverse through Siphon.. Season for you until we connected back to the Loop lifts you high above the rugged Superstition Mountains shoot 6,000! And tales of gold, as well as 100-year-old Saguaro cacti, vista views, and expanded! Something for everyone when he died, he took superstition loop trail location of the Superstition,! Though, that this is more of a climb/scramble then a hike you weave...