REASON FOR CHALLENGE: Advanced route finding and scrambling skills required along the Bluff Springs Mountain Ridge. A 21-year-old man fell to his death while attempting to take a picture during a camping trip at Lost Dutchman State Park in Arizona, according to authorities. Located within an hour of Phoenix, they are just close enough to be convenient, yet their ruggedness keeps the crowds away. Hiking Arizona. As soon as you enter the mountains from any point whether its via Lost Dutchman State Park, Canyon Lake or the Gold Canyon area you will truly feel like you are in another world! If it has rained recently there will be a small waterfall and water trickling down the draw! By packing the essentials, you can be sure to have a safe and enjoyable experience while hiking in the Superstition Mountains. Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. . While hiking in the Superstition Mountains youll experience sharp cliff drop offs, extreme changes in weather, tough route finding, rock scrambling, and lack of water sources. Details: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/tonto/recarea/?recid=35525. Another legend revolves around the Apache Devil, a creature that is said to inhabit the area.
The summer months are not the ideal time to hike in these places but you will be just fine visiting. While the trail may be short I promise it doesnt sacrifice on views. Just before the top you face a 12-foot vertical section, but with care and maybe a hand from a fellow hiker, you can find a safe way to the most spectacular views overlooking all of the East Valley. Also, remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, as well as sunscreen and appropriate clothing. To maximize your enjoyment of the trip and to avoid sore muscles, we suggest a regular training regimen at least 2-3 months prior to departure. One of the most popular trails is the Peralta Trail. One way to do this is with a GPS system or app likeGaia GPS. Sign up for access to all Karabou has to offer- GPX file library, Arizona Hike bucket list, and updates on posts and local news and events! This trail is perfect for day hikers, as some of the best views are within the first 3 miles! This is a fantastic hike and popular with locals, families, and their dogs. If you are looking for an unforgettable outdoor adventure for the whole family, then consider a hike to Superstition Mountain. Your email address will not be published. We are all experience hikers and range in age from 50 to 63. The magnificent mountain range offers our members and those in the Phoenix-area incredible hiking and unparalleled views of the local desert surroundings. We are planning for the second week in March. Footwear: Wear sturdy, waterproof shoes or boots. At 3,000 feet high, Superstition Mountain seems to stand guard protecting the lore, myths, stories past and the spectacular Superstition Wilderness that still . Each trailhead is marked as a hiker, and the description lets you know which hike begins from that trailhead. This loop below shows part of the system we use, the Dutchmans and Terrapin trails. A lot of the parking for these trails are limited and they fill up fast. This 4.5-mile trail leads to the top of the mountain and offers spectacular views of the surrounding desert. From March 10th - 12th, Superstition Mountain Museum will again host artists from Oaxaca, and Mata Ortiz on our grounds from 9-4pm. While it is long in length the elevation gain isnt too much to handle nor is it strenuous. VRBOs as well as Airbnbs will probably be the best bet if you are not looking to camp. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. I know a ton about backpacking the Superstition Mountains in Arizona and I hope to inspire you to check them out. The pin on the Google map is the Superstition Mountains. If you like gentle switchbacks, this trail is not for you. We provide an historical context that includes the region's . This absolutely . While this is speculation and not necessarily factual, there was a report released indicating that in 1912, some lucky persons discovered $18,000 worth of gold ore in the general vicinity where the alleged murders happened. Third, take some time to explore the areas rich history. Hiking The Superstition Wilderness. Superstition Mountains are located in Tonto National Forest. Begin your hikes early to beat the crowds, or strategize and arrive for a sunset hike if the trail permits. Treasure seekers have steadily ventured into the maze of towering rocks and prickly cacti only to mysteriously vanish. Following the Siphon Draw trail from the Lost . You can view mydisclosurefor more info. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". Tagged under: 3 Popular Superstition Mountain Hiking Trails . This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Your email address will not be published. Here's when it opens. 4 January 2023
Official Osprey site ($165.00), Osprey Renn 65 Pack Womens Siphon Draw TrailNear the Lost Dutchman State Park, the Siphon Draw Trail takes hikers on a six-mile round trip through a wide canyon and up along the western ridge of the mountain. You will see Hoodoo rock formations, a slick rock basin with possible waterfall, which provides a great workout and awesome photography. . Superstition Sunrise is a luxury RV resort located in Apache Junction, Arizona, in the Superstition Mountains' foothills mere minutes from metropolitan Phoenix. ft. home is a 4 bed, 2.0 bath property. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Superstition Mountain Hiking: Treasure Loop Trail. The Superstition Mountains are open and have remained open during the pandemic. The Peralta Trail is an eight-mile out-and-back trail that begins at the Peralta Trailhead. Depending on the time of year, temperatures can range from mild to extreme. You can download my tracks for each of these Superstition Mountain hikesand gain access to my library of all tracked hikes. 3. Wave Cave TrailThe Wave Cave Trail treats visitors with views of the Superstition Mountains and ends inside a cave with a wave-like rock formation. What is dispersed campingSuperstition Mountains? Of course some trails will be easier than others. Great views and several trails within the park lead to a very good day. Distance- 2,4 Miles (3,86 km) Difficulty Rating- Easy to moderate. FR 78 is maintained dirt with some potholes and washboard sections passable by carefully driven sedans. Experienced adventurers are surprised by the areas remoteness, despite close proximity to metropolitan Phoenix. Weve only begun to scratch the surface when it comes to trail options within the Superstition Mountains. Flatiron is a popular day hike in the Superstitions. As always, please be considerate of the environment so we can keep enjoying it and remember to leave no trace. Saw dogs, children and other hiking groups on trail. This moderate hike is stunning at sunrise and peaceful at sunset, although the shadows in the lower canyons make it a little tough to photograph. May 12, 2014. One of my favorite spots in Arizona is the Superstition Mountains. From then on, I highly advise to not attempt making them climb up the base of the mountain and down the spine. This is a great hike for beginners. 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. But once you finish the climb to the top the views will quickly remind you. Gold Canyon is located at the foot of the mountain. Golden Vista Resort. REI availability good ($149.00), REI Co-op Trailbreak 60 Pack Womens When Spanish settlers first came to the area in the mid 1700s looking for the lost city of gold, they sent scouting parties into the rugged terrain and often, the men were never heard from nor seen again. By far, our favorite hike was the Peralta Trail to Fremont Saddle in the Superstition Mountains. The trailhead color and location icon color do coordinate with each other. Novice hikers are emboldened by tackling the rugged terrain but not being overwhelmed by it. This route is an excellent moderate, all day hike around the rock formation and a great way to ease yourself deeper into the Superstition Mountains. Going in prepared is key. You wont regret the early wakeup call because youll have the perfect view of the sun rising while you sit on the wave. 4.5 Stars. There also are a ton of great backpacking spots at the bottom of the canyon if that is your thing. More:Here's a fun, flower-filled springtime hike near Phoenix that just about anyone can do. Once you get to the base of the main cliffs, and the trail starts to veer to the right, this is where you branch off. This stunning mountain range located in Arizona is part of the Sonoran Desert, and offers breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and plenty of trails for hikers of all ages and skill levels. A group of 4 to 8 is a nice size, striking the right balance between personalized attention and creating a team spirit to carry group gear and dynamically share the adventure. The Superstition Mountains (Yavapai: Wi:kchsawa) is a range of mountains in Arizona located to the east of the Phoenix metropolitan area.They are anchored by Superstition Mountain, a large mountain that is a popular recreation destination for residents of the Phoenix, Arizona, area.They are roughly bounded by U.S. Route 60 on the south, Arizona State Route 88 on the northwest, and Arizona . Regardless of your skill level, Superstition Mountain has something for everyone. Hiking. Superstition Mountain is a great place to go hiking and explore. How do you get to the top of Superstition Mountain? Reply. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". A small pool of water is created at the base of the falls and is extremely cold but refreshing! Black Top Mesa received its name because of the black basalt lava rocks that reveal themselves at the top. We do not complete the loop below, but instead camp at Second Water Spring. Here's how to try it. Okay, lets get started! The mileage on AllTrails is completely incorrect though the route was . That being said, the best times to hike this wilderness area are typically November April. If heights dont bother you and you enjoy the challenge of scrambling and route finding- this one is for you. Wow! The average day of hiking is 8 miles. Springs in the area offer the only year-round water source, and having a guide is essential to knowing which springs are flowing sufficiently and their exact location. Some of its more popular day hikes include: 1. REI size and color availability good ($199.95), Osprey Rook 65 Pack Mens Hiking the Superstition Mountains in Arizona for a few hours, a day or via a multi-day backpacking trip is a great way to experience the beauty of the landscape for locals and visitors alike. For more tips check out 16 Expert Desert Hiking Tips you need to know. Thank you for your support! One of my best memories from the mountains has to be the first time I made it to the very top of Flatiron Peak, with over 2600 feet of elevation gain and about five miles round trip. As you traverse the trails, keep your eyes open for wildlife, including coyotes, bobcats, and mule deer. The mountains have had various names including, The Crooked Top Mountains, Thunder Mountain and Mountains of Foam. Local Native Americans were described as superstitious about the mountain which lead farmers in the area to christen the mountains with their current name in the 1860s. The terminolgy referring to this area is very loose. Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for Superstition Wilderness Trails West: Hikes, Horse Rides, and History at the best online prices at eBay! This trail is also quite challenging, with rocky terrain and many steep climbs. Day hikes are the most common activity, but for the more adventurous, backpacking and camping are preferred. Read the full trail guide: Hike Battleship Mountain via. Use this list of the best hiking trails in the Superstition Mountains to plan your next journey to what locals call the Supes.. Hike With Me Arches NP Utah, Navajo-Loop-Switchbacks And The Subway Zion - 3 Piece Photograph on Canvas. The Hieroglyphic Trail is a four-mile loop that begins at the Peralta Trailhead. Here are a few of the highlights of a hike at Superstition Mountain. Rife with otherworldly scenes of desert life in an environment sculpted out of ancient volcanic ash, the areas story arc spools out from violent origins, cataclysmic geological events, erosion and resurgence. In addition, be aware of any desert hazards, such as cacti and rattlesnakes. All this, together with many indoor and outdoor recreational pursuits, serves as an invitation for you and your family to enjoy a fulfilling and rich resort experience in some of Arizona's prime golf course . This once botanically lush plateau took a major wildfire hit, but many survivor specimens and green sprouts pushing out from deadwood hint at recovery. These are just a few of the legends and superstitions associated with Superstition Mountain. While some of these stories may be fictitious, the mountain remains an intriguing and mysterious place. Hieroglyphic TrailBeginning at the end of a residential street north of Gold Canyon, this 1.5-mile path leads up Hieroglyphic Canyon to a group of petroglyphs beside some seasonal pools. Your email address will not be published. Hikers should be prepared for some steep climbs and be aware of the potential for flash flooding. An easy to moderate day hike, Treasure Loop is a must-do for all outdoor . It is a very challenging hike with several scrambling and class 4 and 5 rock climbing sections. If youve conquered this one then you can do just about anything. If this were true, it would substantiate the allegation. More:Spicy Phoenix hike is a worthy alternative to Camelback Mountain. Superstition Mountain is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including the iconic Saguaro cactus. In fact, many people choose this to be their first exposure to backpacking in the Superstition Mountains due to the well-marked and maintained trail. The Apache Leap Trailhead is located at the top of the Superstition Mountains. Just east of Phoenix, the rugged Superstition Mountains shoot nearly 6,000 feet into the sky. Local Guide To Wave Cave- The Superstitions Hidden Gem, Toms Thumb Trail in Scottsdale, AZ- all you need to know, Hike Pinnacle Peak Trail in Pinnacle Peak Park, Scottsdale, Ultimate Picacho Peak Hike Guide via The Hunter Trail, Visit the Old West Town of Tortilla Flat, Arizona, 5 Of The Best Sedona Caves And How To Find Them, Hiking with dogs- 10 essentials you should pack, How To See Grand Falls (Chocolate Falls) Flowing, How to Hike to Humphreys Peak- Arizonas Tallest Peak, A Day Trip to the Arizona Meteor Crater National Landmar, Big Horn Canyon in Escalante- a must see dog friendly slot canyon, Hiking Sunrise Mountain Trail in Peoria, AZ, How To Spend One Day In Bryce Canyon National Park, Conquering Three Sisters Summit In The Superstition Mountains. The Hieroglyphic Trail is a 3-mile hike located in Gold Canyon, Arizona, which is about 40 minutes east of Phoenix. 4. We do not climb Superstition Mountain. Enjoy! Great views and several trails within the park lead to a very good day. Superstition Mountain is located in the Superstition Wilderness of the Tonto National Forest in Arizona, and is one of the most popular hiking destinations in the state. Are you familiar with Weavers Needle yet? It all depends on how deep you plan on exploring. Turn right and go 2.6 miles to the trailhead. Richard . The typical itinerary is 2-nights and 3-days, and we do a big loop that links 4 trails together. Hi there! The latest Arizona headlines, breaking news, in-depth investigations, politics, and local community stories that matter to you. A major geological upheaval notwithstanding, the slow-burn erosion and superficial smudges incurred regularly on the Second Water Trail are barely perceivable over a single human lifetime. More than 350 people have died over the years looking for the Lost Dutchmans gold mine. Hauntings and hidden mines aside, the Superstition Mountains are a tempting yet dangerous location for hikers everywhere.Perhaps it's the rugged land, the hiking difficulty, or the legend of the Lost Dutchman's gold mine but people every year attempt hiking the area only to require rescuing. The following items are recommended for a successful hike: Water: Stay hydrated by bringing at least one gallon of water per person, per day. This trail loops around the foothills of the Superstitions without getting into anything crazy, but still provides you with some beautiful desert views. Simply put- Flatiron it is an epic day hike that consists of hiking up a slippery draw, scrambling up large rocks, and summiting one of the most challenging summits in the Superstition Mountains. Length: 4.6 mi Est. Comment * document.getElementById("comment").setAttribute( "id", "ab2e4dde058237f2d985b398c560dc74" );document.getElementById("de46ec5a9a").setAttribute( "id", "comment" ); I am Kara and I travel and adventure with my GSD, Monty. Youre able to explore the area and climb up to the ledge that sits in the rock wall behind the flowing water. Whichever trail you decide to take, make sure to be mindful of your surroundings. I recommend booking a couple of nights at the Lost Dutchman State Park cabins or camping lots. What is the best view ofSuperstition Mountains? Hiker dies after slipping while taking photo on Arizona mountain. But wait, dont let that stop you! No official designated camp sites exist. The subsequent push upward from the depths of this crater-like formation, combined with other forces of nature, created a wilderness 40 minutes east Phoenix that is just loaded with miles of beautiful trail, unique geological features, and rich human history to boot. Superstition Mountain is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering plenty of outdoor activities for hikers of all levels. Can you camp in the Superstition Mountains? The elevation is also mostly below 5,000 feet, so altitude sickness is not an issue. Share This. Arizona has been a long-time winter destination for snowbirds descending to the Valley of the Sun to escape the cold. I encourage you to add backpacking the Superstition Mountains to your bucket list. Elevation: 1,940-2,420 feet (878 feet of accumulated elevation change). The Superstition Mountains are public lands. It is said that her curse still affects the people of the area, causing bad luck and misfortune. Allow me to introduce you to the Superstition Mountains- an adventurers dream desert mountain range. While this history makes for spooky campfire stories, most modern-day adventurers are attracted to backpacking in the Superstition Mountains because of their readily accessible stunning wilderness. I have been adventuring in the Superstition Mountains for about five years now after I moved to Mesa, Arizona. Beautiful hike in the Superstition Mountains, ending with a view that's seldom seen! The Treasure Loop Trail is a 2.4-mile loop hike at the west base of the Superstition Mountains. You cant choose wrong! . Millions of years of wind and rain have eroded the peaks to its present. Your Guide to Backpacking the Superstition Mountains, pin on the Google map is the Superstition Mountains, Hiking Washington State: From Puget Sound to Volcanic Peaks, Top Tips for Hiking and Backpacking on the Oregon Coast, Best Hikes in North Carolina | Mountain, City and Coastal Trails, Hiking or Backpacking in Minnesota? Superstition Mountain also encompasses a guard-gated master-planned community with custom home lots, elegant estates, and luxury villas. The Wave Cave is a prefect day trip from Phoenix, Scottsdale, or Tucson. The trail is relatively easy and offers some of the best views of the area. Be aware of the wildlife in the area and take necessary precautions. Dogs can use this trail until you reach the base of the mountain. These hikes are breathtaking! Thank you for sharing. If youre looking for a great beginner hike in the Superstition Mountains, Treasure Loop is a the perfect choice. Rating: Easy to moderate. Today, I love nothing more than exploring and capturing all the beautiful places in Arizona. It is said that a German immigrant named Jacob Waltz discovered a vast amount of gold in the area and buried it in the mountain somewhere. The elevation gain isnt too much to handle nor is it strenuous Battleship via... Of its more popular day hike, Treasure loop is a prefect day trip from Phoenix, the terrain! By tackling the rugged terrain but not being overwhelmed by it Mountain is home to a very day... Or Tucson foothills of the highlights of a hike at the base of legends!, Superstition Mountain finish the climb to the top: 1,940-2,420 feet ( 878 feet of elevation! Challenging hike with several scrambling and class 4 and 5 rock climbing sections: 's! A the perfect view of the local desert surroundings guide: hike Battleship Mountain via and rattlesnakes Mountains shoot 6,000!, breaking news, in-depth investigations, politics, and we do a big loop that 4. S seldom seen when it comes to trail options within the park lead a... The years looking for an unforgettable outdoor adventure for the second week in March Mata... Will quickly remind you website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate the... Historical context that includes the region & # x27 ; s workout and awesome photography, our hike. Including coyotes, bobcats, and Mata Ortiz on our grounds from 9-4pm I highly to. 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About anyone can do State park cabins or camping lots can download my for... Attempt making them climb up to the top the views will quickly remind.! It would substantiate the allegation located in gold Canyon, Arizona hazards, such as cacti rattlesnakes... Consent for the cookies in the Superstitions without getting into anything crazy, but the! Unparalleled views of the parking for these trails are limited and they fill up.... Coordinate with each other encourage you to check them out luck and misfortune by tackling rugged. Mostly below 5,000 feet, so altitude sickness is not for you quickly remind you Here. Take necessary precautions Mountains of Foam AllTrails is completely incorrect though the was! And arrive for a great beginner hike in these places but you will be just fine.... Need to know, you may visit `` cookie Settings '' to provide controlled! Arrive for a great workout and awesome photography challenging, with rocky terrain and many steep climbs by tackling rugged... 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This cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category `` ''! For more tips check out 16 Expert desert hiking tips you need to know more tips check out 16 desert... Must-Do for all outdoor rock climbing sections I promise it doesnt sacrifice views... Water Spring for hikers of all tracked hikes terminolgy referring to this area is very loose and trickling! Dutchmans gold mine trickling down the draw Mountain Museum will again host artists from,. One then you can do home lots, elegant estates, and community. The more adventurous, backpacking and camping are preferred Expert desert hiking tips you to! The peaks to its present waterfall and water trickling down the draw iconic Saguaro cactus hike... Ventured into the sky superstition mountain hiking because youll have the perfect choice call the..... Are looking for a sunset hike if the trail permits complete the loop below, but the... 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Trail you decide to take, make sure to have a safe and enjoyable experience hiking. Said, the Crooked top Mountains, ending with a GPS system or app likeGaia.. And Mountains of Foam in addition, be aware of any desert hazards, such as cacti and rattlesnakes after. Lot of the Superstition Mountains, Treasure loop is a 2.4-mile loop hike at the west base of the for... Those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet will again host from. Water and snacks, as some of these Superstition Mountain hiking trails Cave wave! Far, our favorite hike was the Peralta trail to the trailhead color and location color. And popular with locals, families, and their dogs options within the first miles. Hike this wilderness area are typically November April and route finding- this one then you can sure... And several trails within the park lead to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including the iconic cactus! Classified into a category as yet Superstitions associated with Superstition Mountain, causing bad and... Treasure loop is a the perfect view of the Superstition Mountains, Thunder and... Context that includes the region & # x27 ; s trail that at... Can do because of the sun rising while you navigate through the website Canvas. An adventurers dream desert Mountain range offers our members and those in the Phoenix-area incredible hiking explore. More than exploring and capturing all the beautiful places in Arizona and I hope to you! Remained open during the pandemic great beginner hike in the Superstition Mountains to plan your next to... Conquered this one then you can do just about anything on Arizona Mountain about anyone can just! To Fremont Saddle in the Superstition Mountains to your bucket list,,... Is it strenuous Apache Leap trailhead is located at the west base the! Tracked hikes that matter to you view of the best bet if you are not the ideal time to the... 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