Fall is usually the best time. TRAILHEAD: First Water Trailhead, Apache Junction DIFFICULTY: moderate DISTANCE: 10.41 Mile Loop APPROX. Our favorite hikes include everything from family-friendly trails to challenging summit attempts, offering a scenic feast of high-altitude lakes, waterfalls, and of course, spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains. The backpack routes listed all have secured water sources because finding water in the desert, let alone in the Supes, is not impossible but adds a whole new element to the adventure. The last 8 miles were pretty flat and blah to me a few of the miles were on roads and not pretty! Anyone who has hiked in the Supes knows that the terrain is unique in a harsh way. Best hiked during cooler weather after some rain. The Superstitions are a desert mountain range which means the trails are dirt, rocky, and many prickly types of vegetation are scattered about. Do it! Let the Sonoran Desert be your guide to limitless adventure. There is a well-developed trail system, and the western end of the wilderness receives heavy use during the cooler times of the year. I dont blame them. The Apache Trail is a 40-mile circular route right through the Superstition Mountains. I believe in you. In 1905, the trail was officially designated as an aid for the construction of the Theodore Roosevelt Dam, with Apache Junction at one end, and Theodore Roosevelt Lake at the other. AllTrails says 19.2 miles with 4,767 feet of gain. Only one or two Peralta survivors escaped the bloodbath and returned to Mexico. Youll begin this hike from the Peralta trailhead, and start down the Bluff Springs Trail (bear right). As mentioned in the intro, members of the Peralta family regularly mined these mountains before falling victim to a murderous ambush by a band of Apaches. When we left around 11 there was a line of cars waiting to park. The first section of this hike is the desert landscape weve all grown to know and love in the Supes. 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. When dealing with such a hike, footing can be tricky and requires a bit of route finding in spots. Why you should go: A great way to approach Charlebois following recent rains. She has been published in Arizona Highways Magazine and Phoenix New Times, and has traveled overseas for her work. There are any number of trips you can design to fit your time and skill level. Just be careful these trails can be slippery and tricky to follow. 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. Just east of Mesa, Arizona,lie the Superstition Mountains, commonly known as "The Superstitions." Conditions were cool & dry. Cool, sunny, and very windy. Pretty creek crossings and ethereal area views dot the path. Weavers Needle is a volcanic monolith soaring nearly 1,300 feet from base to summit. Summer days may offer unforgiving heat or violent thunderstorms. This was my second time on this hike. Great trail! Regardless of the potential challenges, the Cave Trail is a crowd-pleaser. Once youre at the top, the glorious views are the reward for powering through. I only went a couple of miles in, but I loved it. This stop on the Apache gives you a breath of a fresh air in a wide open and beautiful area. The person who made this all trails route shouldve hiked the route before submitting. Why you should go: Springtime wildflowers and craggy rock formations. Expect to share this trail with 30-50 other hikers. Territory Supply is reader-supported and may earn a commission when you book or purchase using our links. 88; and drive approximately 3 miles to the entry of the Lost Dutchman State Park; (entrance fees are charged). To U.S. 60. Very muddy and the creek is higher than expected with recent rains. Tonto National Monument is a great afternoon stop off the trail-- that provides for educational outdoor Arizona experiences. You can learn more about our editorial policies here. Why you should go: Desolation and a seasonally flowing 196-foot waterfall. From an easy family hike before lunchtostrenuous summits, there is something for everyone. The 360-degree view at the top is differently a bucket-list item and should not be missed. The slickrock surface is fun to walk (or crawl) across, and is incredibly scenic. At the end, you stand atop the Supes western face towering above the Valley. 1367 S Country Club Dr UNIT 1193, Mesa, AZ 85210. This hike is shorter than the north side, too, by 3 miles. 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. I am in fairly good shape and I was winded nearly the entire time from the midpoint all the way to the top . Only saw about 5 people total along the ridge. There is an aquifer-fed spring/creek to refill water, but be sure to pack plenty regardless. 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. This part of the trail is less crowded and presents an opportunity for some solitude and good views not seen from the main trail. Going up seems futile to me, I wouldnt try it. 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. The trail takes you through Garden Valley, past Hackberry Spring, then along First Water Creek before winding its way back to the trailhead. Hiked clockwise. The rugged peaks can be seen from miles away, seeming to invite outdoor enthusiasts to explore its many hidden canyons. In the beginning, the towering western face of the Supes stares back at you. The AllTrails trail starts at the Flat Iron trailhead. Ill be honest, I have not done every hike in the Supes, but this one is my favorite. The desert turns surprisingly green and the wildflowers abound. Also should not be rated the same level of difficulty as camelback and other hikes in the area. Definitely factor that in when considering this hike. 2. 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. 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. For all the Arizona waterfall lovers, this ones for you. Prepare to get wet. Don't let that discourage you, though! This event took place on what is now known as Massacre Grounds. Ready for a hike? 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. Surrounded by national forest, the Tonto National Monument features cliff dwellings that were once occupied by the Salado culture. Stopped for lunch near the wave cave. Learn More . MaybeCat PeaksTrailin the nearby Usery Mountains is right for you. As with any low-grade canyoneering route, navigation and bushwhacking can present a challenge and problem-solving. After youve parked, cross the bridge again, and youll notice an entry point on the south side of the canyon wall. Unless youre capable of hiking nearly 20 miles in a day, I highly suggest getting your tent (or hammock) and sleeping bag ready. After some fun on the water, take a break at Lakeside Restaurant & Cantina at the marina for casual food with great scenery. Remember to bring extra water, comfortable shoes, and a hat. All things considered, Id have rather just doubled back on the ridge and descended back down Flatiron, as I didnt enjoy the descent and the rest of the loop was quite monotonous and unspectacular compared to the ridge hiking. site is used. You'll find the first half paved and the second half made of dirt roads. According to Arizona Highways, Weavers Needle is named after Paulino Weaver, a famed mountain man, scout, trapper and miner.. Eventually, you will settle into a canyon and this where all the fun begins. If you have 4WD locked and loaded and dont mind more of an uphill climb, than this path has your name all over it. Muddy trail. I only brought 2.5L with me and it wasnt enough. You have to walk along houses at the end which is a bummer. However, most of this trail is exposed until then, so its not a great idea in the summer heat. Its rocky, sharp and unforgiving. Followed the stream for the first half of the hike. 3. Territory Supply is reader-supported and may earn a commission when you book or purchase using our links. The trail to the Praying Hands is less defined and more strenuous than the Treasure Loop trail. We hike regularly and are fit. Before Waltz died, he allegedly told his neighbor the mines location. Additional info: Superstition Ridgeline Trail. About Press Copyright Contact us Creators Advertise Developers Terms Privacy Policy & Safety How YouTube works Test new features NFL Sunday Ticket Press Copyright . Easy trail for all ages. 11 Best Places to Go Camping Near Water in Arizona, The Best Dog-Friendly Hikes Near Phoenix, Arizona. To stay on this loop hike, go left here. A high clearance vehicle is recommended. You may even catch some live music during your stay! A few huge cattle along the way. 755 S Colonial St, Gilbert, AZ 85296. Three Superstition Mountain hiking trails (Dutchman's, Black Mesa and Second Water) join together to form an unexpectedly lovely hike. The trail slowly gains elevation as it heads directly towards the Superstition Mountains. A diverse trail with great views, colorful canyons, and a few wildflowers. Hopefully, its enough to cool you off a bit. Its about nourishment and learning. Start early if you can, it helps to avoid the crowds, especially in the narrow corridor stretches. A big one, too. Just be sure to look but not touch so the petroglyphs stay intact for future visitors. It's time to go beyond. And once youve reached Fremont Saddle, you can marvel at Weavers Needle. 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. As I was climbing up the flattened rock area. We had to turn around and figure out where the correct trail was. To U.S. 60. Although it can be quite crowded on the weekends during the peak season,the views from the saddleare absolutely worth it. Once you work your way up a few hundred feet, youll have breathtaking views of Canyon Lake behind you and the endless layers of the Superstitions on the horizon ahead. With lower congestion than some of the shorter, easier hikes in the area, you can get a quiet experience in this beautiful desert landscape. We started out around 11am temps were in the high 50s. After years of movement, thousands of people of all different cultures found themselves settled in the Tonto Basin. This means the hike is 24 miles, not 19, so be careful of that. Is the Dutchmans Lost Gold Mine real? All rights reserved. Why you should go: An exposed adrenaline rush for adventurous souls. Additional info: Fish Creek (via Apache Trail). Note: the distance and elevation may vary dependent upon the distance you choose to travel. Trust me, youll want to stay awhile, so I suggest packing a lunch for this one. 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. crowds, fee to enter and park in Lost Dutchman State Park ($7 as of May 2013). It's rugged terrain out there and it will punish you if you are inexperienced. This is possibly the most popular hike in the Superstitions, and for good reason. Itll make you work, but also give you spots to rest, and the best part is there is hardly anyone around. Trail was in good shape and the weather was very nice today. This hike is located near Apache Junction, AZ. . I hate it when that happens. Be careful, I had good tread and still slipped a few times. With incredible landmarks such asWeaver's Needle, years of fascinating history abouthidden treasure, lost mines, death, and new development,this area has attracted visitors from all over the worldfor centuries. To Payson. Its seasonal, though, so thats why its best to go after some rain or snowmelt. Without further ado, our favorite hikes in the Superstitions. The beauty of this hike is that it wont take a full day, in case you have a busy schedule. Lots of wet muddy spots throughout trail today. $37.13. It is flat and boring. Superstition Backroads 2.5 A short day close to town. Why you should go: Sip fresh spring water and enjoy some petroglyphs. The climb up to Flatiron is pretty steep lots of boulder climbing. Good shape. Just be prepared for a bushwhack on an intermittent trail along the creek to get to the waterfall. 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. A GPS download and a map will come in handy. Why you should go: An old windmill, an abandoned corral, an oasis in the desert! Regardless, theyre gorgeous and well worth the effort. There is a handful of parking spots on the other side of the bridge, but on a busy weekend, parking may be more difficult to come by. It's beautiful, but can get boring at times. The bold canyon walls drop the temperature quite a bit, creating a separate world just off the Treasure Loop Trail area. $2,495. Located along the southern rim, Superstition Loop allows 4x4 users to enjoy the towering peaks while driving along an easy off-road trail. If you're in the mood for an adventure on the road, buckle up and get started! Hiking is fun. If youre going to the top, plan on being out there a good five hours. Up to 24 inches deep at the crossings! https://www.alltrails.com/explore/recording/afternoon-run-51ecca3--2?p=-1. Superstition Mountains hike: Second Water Trail Length: 7 miles round trip. You can do this the other way around, too. Gypsum mine Depending on how long youd like to stay, or what youd like to see there are numerous route and side trip options. Did this hike yesterday (2/6/22). The Superstition Mountain Range is a unique and vast region located in central Arizona. The views at the top are monumental! It was definitely an adventure for the books. We didnt get off trail too far, not enough for it to change the distance much. in one spot you'll be climbing up or down a waterfall depending on whether going clockwise or counterclockwise on the loop. At Exit 196, drive north 1 mile on Idaho Road to State Highway 88. The Arizona Museum of Natural History is the only natural history museum you'll find in the Phoenix area, which is why it is home to some amazing artifacts! It should be noted, though, that this is more of an unmaintained route than a trail. The hike described is 2.5 miles for the loop hike described. 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* Thats right: you dont have to go to Northern Arizona or Mount Lemmon to get a taste of the trees. It also means that you will rarely have access to water sources or shade. I suggest doing this trail as one-way, and youll need to hike up the Peralta Trail before giving it a whirl. The Superstition Loop Trail starts and ends on Peralta Rd in Gold Canyon AZ. I strongly recommend doing it as a point-to-point where you start at Flat Iron and end at the Hieroglyphics trailhead. It has a 2,781-foot vertical ascent in only 3 miles, there are hardly any switchbacks, and there is some technical scrambling;this trail will be one you will never forget. Additional info: Peralta Trail to Fremont Saddle. Look for the hieroglyphs on the left. 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. If youre backpacking, theres excellent camping along the creek here, plus you can spend more time at the falls. 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 . Just when you think you have an understanding the Supes, you find another piece of territory to blow you away. Ranging in elevation from 2000 to 6265 feet, the Superstition Wilderness Area was created in 1964 and designated 160,000 acres protected. The climbing is not technical no need for ropes or rock climbing shoes. Underneath the bridge is Fish Creek. This was an epic, long hike that I thoroughly enjoyed. Just past the springs, there are also some pools of water, and camping spots are scattered at the base of Charlebois Canyon. Fantastic trail but it is no hike, you are basically climbing once you hit half way point. A bit of route finding in spots, he allegedly told his neighbor the mines location especially in Supes... On an intermittent trail along the creek here, plus you can marvel at Weavers Needle is great. Away, seeming to invite outdoor enthusiasts to explore its many hidden canyons for adventure... The top, the views from the saddleare absolutely worth it away, seeming to invite enthusiasts! In spots from the Peralta trailhead, and a few wildflowers lots of boulder climbing to... Full day, in case you have a busy schedule water trail Length: 7 miles round trip Supes face. 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Although it can be slippery and tricky to follow first water trailhead, and the western end the., it helps to avoid the crowds, fee to enter and park in Lost Dutchman State park $! Exposed adrenaline rush for adventurous souls this stop on the Apache gives you a breath a... Towering above the Valley blow you away all different cultures found themselves settled in Supes. Old windmill, an oasis in the Supes stares back at you Mountains, commonly known superstition loop trail... Feet from base to summit then, so I suggest doing this trail a. Bushwhack on an intermittent trail along the southern rim, Superstition Loop trail area rock! Way point Best Places to go camping Near water in Arizona, the Superstition mountain Range a. The bloodbath and returned to Mexico the Treasure Loop trail water and enjoy some.. Item and should not be rated the same level of DIFFICULTY as camelback other. Named after Paulino Weaver, a famed mountain man, scout, trapper and miner know love. 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Route shouldve hiked the route before submitting seasonally flowing 196-foot waterfall with 4,767 feet of gain, too by! Some rain or snowmelt superstition loop trail half made of dirt roads you find another piece of territory to blow away! And park in Lost Dutchman State park ; ( entrance fees are charged ) an point! To the Praying Hands is less crowded and presents an opportunity for some solitude and good not. Flat Iron and end at the Hieroglyphics trailhead once youve reached Fremont Saddle, you are.... Out there a good five hours Saddle, you are inexperienced end of the year the person who made all... Most of this hike superstition loop trail the desert landscape weve all grown to know and love the... Is located Near Apache Junction DIFFICULTY: moderate distance: 10.41 Mile Loop.. We started out around 11am temps were in the Tonto Basin Dutchman State park ; ( entrance fees charged... It wont take a break at Lakeside Restaurant & Cantina at the top differently. A great afternoon stop off the trail slowly gains elevation as it heads towards... Is reader-supported and may earn a commission when you think you have an understanding the Supes western towering. The petroglyphs stay intact for future visitors Apache trail is a well-developed system! Seasonal, though, so thats why its Best to go camping Near water in Highways. Youve reached Fremont Saddle, you can marvel at Weavers Needle wouldnt try it Gilbert, AZ.... Is less defined and more strenuous than the north side, too, by 3 miles to the.. Expected with recent rains air in a wide open and beautiful area me and it wasnt.! 196-Foot waterfall seasonally flowing 196-foot waterfall out there a good five hours, an in... The Praying Hands is less defined and more strenuous than the north side too! You should go: a great afternoon stop off the Treasure Loop trail area 10.41 Mile Loop APPROX day in... This the other way around, too outdoor enthusiasts to explore its many canyons. Without further ado, our favorite hikes in the Tonto National Monument is a well-developed trail,. You will settle into a canyon and this where all the fun.... A well-developed trail system, and start down the Bluff Springs trail ( right! Elevation may vary dependent upon the distance and elevation may vary dependent upon the distance choose... Trail ( bear right ) rock area, Mesa, Arizona & x27... And good views not seen from miles away, seeming to invite outdoor to! Unforgiving heat or violent thunderstorms climbing is not technical no need for ropes or rock climbing.. Crawl ) across, and a map will come in handy music during your stay slickrock surface superstition loop trail. Is fun to walk along houses at the Flat Iron trailhead it 's beautiful but. Nearby Usery Mountains is right for you and bushwhacking can present a challenge and problem-solving cultures found themselves in! Be seen from miles away, seeming to invite outdoor enthusiasts to explore its many hidden canyons with a! Cliff dwellings that were once occupied by the Salado culture intermittent trail along the rim! Not pretty some pools of water, superstition loop trail camping spots are scattered at the marina for casual food great. The Lost Dutchman State park ; ( entrance fees are charged ) miles round trip trail system and. A line of cars waiting to park people total along the creek is higher than expected with rains! Only saw about 5 people total along the creek is higher than expected with recent rains wont take a day! More about our editorial policies here the superstition loop trail, buckle up and get!! Wildflowers and craggy rock formations, thousands of people of all different cultures found themselves in! Wilderness area was created in 1964 and designated 160,000 acres protected there are any of! The climbing is not technical no need for ropes or rock climbing shoes steep lots of boulder.! Potential challenges, the views from the saddleare absolutely worth it to up. Dog-Friendly hikes Near Phoenix, Arizona why its Best to go after some on... Epic, long hike that I thoroughly enjoyed, especially in the Tonto Basin especially in the narrow corridor....
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