88; and drive approximately 3 miles to the entry of the Lost Dutchman State Park; (entrance fees are charged). The summer months are not the ideal time to hike in these places but you will be just fine visiting. We didnt get off trail too far, not enough for it to change the distance much. Slightly more difficult but even better 360 degree views! The rugged peaks can be seen from miles away, seeming to invite outdoor enthusiasts to explore its many hidden canyons. Click to enlarge. At the southwest end of the foothills of the mountains, the Superstition Mountain Museum offers exhibits that educate folks about the rich history of Arizona, starting with the story of the Apaches. Tales of gold, mystery and phenomena defines the lore of the Superstitions. Its short length, soaring rock formations and excellent views make it an awesome day hike for grown ups and kiddos alike. WEAVERS NEEDLE LOOP STATS. When is the Best Time to Visit Zion National Park? Theres history on this hike. Decades later, Jacob Waltz, aka "the Dutchman," was said to have found the mine, and hid gold in the Superstitions. An easy to moderate day hike, Treasure Loop is a must-do for all outdoor enthusiasts. Woodbury Trail 114. Prepare to get wet. Turn right on Hwy. But dont let my misstep dissuade you from giving it a go. Perfect day on this fantastic trail. Just remember, this is the desert. Learn More . Ready to get out there? We took this hike in a counter clockwise direction, so the write up reflects this. White-knuckle curves, ghost towns, and scenic beauty abound. We took this hike in a counter clockwise direction, so the write up reflects this. Shared By: Hiking Project Staff Full Details Trail Ratings 4.5 from 4 votes Trail Rankings #3 Superstition Mountains hike: Second Water Trail Length: 7 miles round trip. For all the Arizona waterfall lovers, this ones for you. Preview trail Backpacking Hiking Views No shade Conditions 4 bd 3 ba 1.9k sqft. The latest Arizona headlines, breaking news, in-depth investigations, politics, and local community stories that matter to you. To complete it, youll need some off-trail route finding skills and a shuttle car. If it's a little to hot for an open air hike, meander intoSiphon Draw Trail! I only brought 2.5L with me and it wasnt enough. Loreah Winlow Treasure Loop Trail is a 2.4-mile loop hike at the west base of the Superstition Mountains. She has been published in Arizona Highways Magazine and Phoenix New Times, and has traveled overseas for her work. Sign up to receive our newsletter packed with the best adventure guides, travel ideas, news, and articles. There are any number of trips you can design to fit your time and skill level. You can see my stats and route on the Strava link here: https://www.strava.com/activities/8545950069 Thats how I felt during this trek. The climbing is not technical no need for ropes or rock climbing shoes. Trail well marked, although helps to have the AllTrails app in case you get off track, which sometimes happens. But after a few miles of uphill hiking, youll find yourself walking amongst the trees. This trail, in particular, keeps me humbled and healed. Canyoneering 3: Loop Hikes in Utah's Escalante by Steve Allen (English) Paperbac. Best hiked during cooler weather after some rain. You can do this the other way around, too. . Make the right turn, plan it after a recent rain, and youll experience some of the finest pools and pour-offs in the Supes. View is great, would definitely do again! Why you should go: In just four miles, you get some of the Supes sweetest sights. 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. Its about protecting what sustains us. The towering crags of the Superstition Mountain glow brilliantly opposite the setting sun. It is full of history and tales of gold, as well as 100-year-old saguaro cacti, vista views, and wildlife. However, the part connecting these two is not a trail and is incredibly difficult. 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. We started out around 11am temps were in the high 50s. 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. Followed the stream for the first half of the hike. Why you should go: A potpourri of Superstition grandeur. It can be as straightforward or as sporadic as you want. I tracked my hike on Garmin, not AllTrails, so my map and stats dont show on here. Gateway Loop Trail is equestrian and dog friendly. The map is a straight line. Well marked and maintained. She enjoys all things outdoors, resistance training, authentic Indian food, and advocating for our environment and human rights. Hike the Treasure Loop trail in the Superstition wilderness of Arizona. 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. This stop on the Apache gives you a breath of a fresh air in a wide open and beautiful area. Miners Needle Loop gives you a little bit of everything. Don't let that discourage you, though! starting at First Water Trailhead and taking the Dutchmans Trail. A nice walk, certainly not challenging. The main trail is 2.0. I suggest doing this trail as one-way, and youll need to hike up the Peralta Trail before giving it a whirl. The lo. But still worth the hike! However, in the beginning, my friends and I had no idea what we were in for. Expansive views, canyon walls, valley floors, switchbacks, desert trees, and a saguaro forest. Let the Sonoran Desert be your guide to limitless adventure. The person who made this all trails route shouldve hiked the route before submitting. For every moment you push yourself on this hike, youll have another moment soaking up spectacular views. This trail will wind you through some amazing sights and scenes. It should be noted, though, that this is more of an unmaintained route than a trail. Youre scrambling over boulders and fighting through cat claw. It now contains approximately 160,200 acres. The hike described is 2.5 miles for the loop hike described. The good thing about the Sups is that as a Wilderness Area mountain bikes are banned. Once in the canyon, this is where navigation gets complex. once at the parking lot, the hike back to Lost Dutchman is relatively flat and uneventful. Remember to bring extra water, comfortable shoes, and a hat. It runs through State Trust Land so you will need a permit to run these trails.. Timing is everything. Loose rocks on trail. To stay on this loop hike, go left here. guide, Start a 7-Day Free Trial of All-Access Membership, 11 community trail reviews with the It eventually meets a well maintained trail. Explore Superstition Mountain Trails - view hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. 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. 23-mile figure 8 loop trail. I, for one, like to stay away from mountain bike trails unless, of course, I am on one. You have to walk along houses at the end which is a bummer. Youll walk through a garden of poppies, desert zinnias and golden asters. 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. Scrambling, scree, and beautiful fields of saguaro cactus! One of the most popular hikes in the area, for good reason, is thePeralta Canyon Trail. 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. Awesome hieroglyphs at the end and a small waterfall. Could have done without them, but needed the miles for R3 training. 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. Very busy, but fun and just the right amount of challenge. This is probably my favorite time to hike generally. The Treasure Loop Trail #56 starts from the Saguaro day use area. Tons off cactus needles in me. Just east of Mesa, Arizona,lie the Superstition Mountains, commonly known as "The Superstitions." I dont blame them. 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 Lost Dutchman State Park 6109 N. Apache Trail Apache Junction, AZ 85119 480.982.4485 Trip Reports As the story goes, the family was ambushed by Apaches while on a gold expedition, leaving all but one or two family members left for dead. If you aren't feeling that section, you can grab an Uber from the parking lot back to LD. Good grip important! 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. harder than they say go slow- follow the white arrows painted on the rocks! 2. Ran out with 6 miles to go. Got lucky and found lot parking but lot was pretty full. 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 hardest part was superstition mountain peak as scrambling and lack of trail in parts made it tough. Lost Dutchman State Parkofferscamping opportunities for tent users and RV campers as well aspicnic areas for day use visitors. There is a gloomy tale that surrounds this area. The descent from the pass is brutal on the legs but passes pretty quickly. No one really knows the source of the carvings, but its still a magnificent piece of history and a memory to take home. Boulder Canyon Trail is a treasure-chest of a hike in the Superstition Mountains. I love the Superstitions and I'm glad you do to. 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 . The desert turns surprisingly green and the wildflowers abound. Arizona Off-Road Trail: Box Canyon Superstition Mountains Living in Arizona Now 112K subscribers Subscribe 2.3K 61K views 2 years ago This is an Arizona off-road trail into Box Canyon near the. when you get to get to the barbered wire- theres a way thru that.. totally worth pictures on the wave rock! Keep in mind that this is not an official trail, but it begins at the Carney Springs Trailhead. First time doing it, and loved every minute of it. 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. I recommend lacing up your boots in the springtime for this one. Would recommend bringing climbing gloves if you dont want to rough up your hands. About 20 years after the attack, Jacob Waltz now known as The Dutchman caught wind of the mines location. This hike took about 2 hours with a detour to the Praying hands climbing area. Download the AllTrails map and follow the cairns. We did not do the boring loop part. Picture Information. big difference since I was there just a few years ago pre-covid, there is a lot less to see. 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. The lower dwelling is open to the public, half a mile up a steep path, while the upper cliff can be accessed via guided tour only. Felt like we were hinting through different landscapes every few miles. It starts at Rogers Trough Trailhead, and a high clearance with 4WD is recommended to get back here, especially after a good rain. Once youre at the top, the glorious views are the reward for powering through. Definitely factor that in when considering this hike. Explore this 19.2-mile loop trail near Apache Junction, Arizona. You can spend day two exploring some one-off trails and enjoying the creek. Beautiful trail, but a lot of the hieroglyphs have been destroyed by people climbing on them. Cool, sunny, and very windy. Loop hike with the Peralta trail to the Cave trail in the Superstition wilderness, Arizona. No conditions reported in the past 7 days. That being said, the best times to hike this wilderness area are typically November - April. TheTreasure Loop Trailis a 2.4-mile loop hike at the west base of the Superstition Mountains. 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. 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. Need to Know Bring water. It is family andpet friendly, incredibly scenic, and rich with gold-mining history and the Lost Dutchman's Buried Treasure. To Payson. She is a Phoenix-based journalist with five years of writing and editing experience. When in solitude, the desert speaks. 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. This choice turned a 4-mile hike into a 9-mile one. Theres something about excursions with running water, like Fish Creek, that feel like home in our most natural state. If you go hiking in the Superstition Mountains, especially in the summer, you absolutely must bring enough water. Since the surrounding area is relatively flat, it offers spectacular views less than 0.5 miles up the trail. There are some cairns and its nearly impossible to get lost, but we are going to leave it up to our pals over at HikeArizona to do the navigation honors. 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. We found hiking off the Apache trail (highway) more interesting. The Hiker's Guide to the Superstition Wildernessdescribes this as a "day hike" of about 6.5 hours in length. Elevation: 1,940-2,420 feet (878 feet of accumulated elevation change). There is no where to fill up along the route. The trail is well defined and every trail junction is well signed. Elevation gain-3,000ft. crowds, fee to enter and park in Lost Dutchman State Park ($7 as of May 2013). Sign up for our free email to join thousands of readers getting epic travel, hiking, camping and gear ideas every week. If you are going with someone and have two cars, I would park one in the lot at hieroglyphics trailhead. Rating: Easy to moderate. Awesome hike with varied terrain and views. I went counterclockwise on this loop, and I think it might be slight easier to go clockwise. . By the time you reach the cave, youll have earned relaxation points, shade and a gentle breeze. Only saw about 5 people total along the ridge. The hard part of the hike starts about a mile and a half in from the parking lot and from there it was game on. 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 . We'll help you pick the right season for you. I hate it when that happens. You'll find the first half paved and the second half made of dirt roads. Just at the edge of Phoenix, the Superstition Mountains offer a jaw-droppingly rugged landscape. Its worth hanging out a few extra minutes to soak up the sights and sounds before continuing to Flatirons flat-topped summit. There is a lot to see and do around the area. Recommend that you download the map. Hat and sunscreen are a must. Start early if you can, it helps to avoid the crowds, especially in the narrow corridor stretches. By clicking "ACCEPT", you agree to be the terms and conditions of each A bit of trail navigation may be necessary. Sun went down before we reached turn off to Hieroglyphics which made the last mile of Ridgeline and whole Hieroglyphics trails more difficult. The current Apache Trail links Apache Junction at the edge of the Greater Phoenix . The real treat of this hike is the impressive up close views of the Superstition mountains and Apache Junction framed in the desert. Youll still get a good 11+ miles in. Is the Dutchmans Lost Gold Mine real? 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. Whiskey Spring Trail 238. A great half day adventure,Pass Mountain Trailis the longest hike in the park at 7.5 miles with approximately 710 feetof elevation gain. 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. Cost of entry to park was $10. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 10 h 29 min to complete. in one spot you'll be climbing up or down a waterfall depending on whether going clockwise or counterclockwise on the loop. Why you should go: Get a dose of cave therapy. This trail is great for backpacking and hiking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. https://www.alltrails.com/explore/recording/afternoon-run-51ecca3--2?p=-1. One of the hardest treks in the Supes, the Ridgeline isnt for the meek or uninitiated. This160,200-acre wilderness area was established as a pre-wilderness areain 1939, but it wasexpanded to its current size in 1964 when it was designated as an official wilderness area. 11 Best Places to Go Camping Near Water in Arizona, The Best Dog-Friendly Hikes Near Phoenix, Arizona. 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. 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. Additional info: Peralta Trail to Fremont Saddle. From AZ 88, or Apache Trail, you will eventually cross a bridge. You will pass Jacob's Crosscut trail #58 (JCT 1ST on the map), continue on the Treasure Loop trail by going straight. Being naked is sometimes fun. Great views after the fog cleared. If you have 4WD locked and loaded and dont mind more of an uphill climb, than this path has your name all over it. The turn off is a little ways past Lost Dutchman State Park. We chose a loop trail approximately 14 miles in length, beginning at Peralta Trailhead and following Bluff Spring Trail, camping at Charlebois Spring and returning via Terrapin Trail. Do it! Look out for epic views of Weavers Needle, too. Just pace yourself and watch your step and youll do well. For one, when its overcast and/or raining, the desert is radiating in color and life. Really want to amp up your trip? These next few hikes are closely related and make for killer backpacking trips. Others have noted that as you continue on the north side of First Water Creek, a tunnel that leads to an old mine operation. I counted 18 stream crossings to complete the loop. Another way to Reavis Ranch, just starting from the south instead of the north. 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. Watch the sunset during dinner at Kokopellis Restaurant, or put your feet up at The Ledge at Dinosaur Mountain's outdoor bar and fire pits. Enjoy the view and explore the saddle to see all the vantages. 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. If youre going to the top, plan on being out there a good five hours. Pretty populated with people. Why you should go: A great way to approach Charlebois following recent rains. There were also parts where loose rock / scree made sliding / falling possible. Like walking into a desert forest. Reviewers of this hike have claimed the navigation is like solving a hard puzzle. Youre almost there, and the views are unparalleled. Several trails lead from the park into the Superstition Mountain Wilderness and surrounding Tonto National Forest. Fantastic trail but it is no hike, you are basically climbing once you hit half way point. Even the cacti bloom with flowers and fruit. It was breathtaking from the very beginning. We fell a few times even going slow due to darkness. This desert world offers unbeatable landscapesjust remember to prepare for the summer heat! I started near hieroglyphics instead. Narrows of La Barge Creek Views Enjoy this 19.2-mile loop trail near Apache Junction, Arizona. Related Read:12 Best Hikes in Arizona, From Desert to Tundra. After a wet winter, the deserts thirst is quenched and truly begins to blossom. 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! 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. There is a creek, too, mind you. Its seasonal, though, so thats why its best to go after some rain or snowmelt. There is a well-developed trail system, and the western end of the wilderness receives heavy use during the cooler times of the year. Since the surrounding area is relatively flat, it offers spectacular views less than half a mile up the trail. Beautiful views starting miles back in the car. It is flat and boring. Here are sixof our favorite hikes! 1. Climbing along the ridge was awesome, though everything was pretty overgrown so we did lose the trail a few times. Live out history for yourself in Goldfield Ghost Town. If Flatiron isnt enough for you, weve got you covered with this hike. 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. It was named the Apache Trail after the Native American Indians who originally used this trail to migrate through the Superstition Mountains for over 1,000 years. Learn more about Bri at her website or on Instagram. Its easy to miss a turn and to follow the trail along the wash. The trail slowly gains elevation as it heads directly towards the Superstition Mountains. Once you get past the turnoff to Flat Iron (Siphon Draw), the trail is virtually empty and you have the whole ridge to yourself. The views up top are incredible, but dont sleep on the traverse through Siphon Draw. Easy trail for all ages. But either way, around every corner is a different piece of the landscape waiting to be unveiled. Depending on the time of year, there will be more or less water in the creek. Imagining the sunset on the evening of a full moon, and also catching the sunrise, left me speechless. No HOA. This event took place on what is now known as Massacre Grounds. Top was windy and beautiful. 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. 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. Quite a big difference if you ask me, so dont make the same mistake I did.

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