superstition mountain hiking

There is nothing quite like standing atop the mountain, watching the desert sunset and breathing in the beauty of the Sonoran Desert. The Superstition Mountains are in the Sonoran Desert, which offer an amazing diversity of plant and animal life. This protected land was designated in 1939, and was expanded in 1984 to its current size of 160,200 acres. Read the full trail guide: Local Guide To Wave Cave- The Superstitions Hidden Gem, Distance | 3.1 milesDifficulty | Easy ModerateTrailhead | Hieroglyphic TrailheadPermit | NoneDog Friendly | Yes. If you havent become familiar with this prominent rock formation you will after this hike. Experts believe the Superstition Mountains were formed more than 18 million years ago by volcanic activity. Wear appropriate clothing for the climate and time of year, including light layers, a hat, and sunscreen. With a round-trip distance just shy of 12 miles and an elevation gain of about 1,800 feet this trip requires an early start especially in the warmer late spring and summer months. 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? At 3,000 feet high, Superstition Mountain seems to stand guard protecting the lore, myths, stories past and the spectacular Superstition Wilderness that still . Superstition Sunrise is a luxury RV resort located in Apache Junction, Arizona, in the Superstition Mountains' foothills mere minutes from metropolitan Phoenix. It's also a popular stop along the Apache Trail, one of the most scenic drives in the state. The trail is rated as moderate and takes around 2-3 hours to complete. From March 10th - 12th, Superstition Mountain Museum will again host artists from Oaxaca, and Mata Ortiz on our grounds from 9-4pm. 10. Completing the Bluff Springs trail as an out and back is the perfect alternative to the Peralta and Dutchmans trails, that might see more people on a busy weekend. Superstition Mountain is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including the iconic Saguaro cactus. Superstition Mountain is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering plenty of outdoor activities for hikers of all levels. 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. We do not climb Superstition Mountain. The latest Arizona headlines, breaking news, in-depth investigations, politics, and local community stories that matter to you. This was a real mining town back in the late 1800s and has now been turned into a tourist spot for some old West fun the whole family can enjoy. PebbleCreek Hiking Club Hike Master List - Area: Superstition Mountains As of: 10/30/2022 DESCRIPTION: HIKE: A Challenge Hike - Superstition Mountains - Bluff Springs Mountain plus return via CrossOver. SOLD FEB 14, 2023. This is one of the most popular trails in Superstition Wilderness, which features an incredible view of Weaver's Needle from the saddle. Nearby Recently Sold Homes. This post contains affiliate links, which means purchasing through these links I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Yes, camping is a popular activity in the Superstitions. The park is located at the base of the mountain range and offers plenty of hiking trails and picnic areas. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. A large portion of Arizonas history lives within this mysterious mountain range. Its also situated in the perfect area to add a few more miles with various trails beginning near the Lost Dutchman State Park lot. Know your limitations and do not push yourself beyond your physical capability. As you plan your fall, winter, or spring wilderness getaway, do not overlook the Alps of the Sonoran Desert! The kicker- it only appears after rainfall which as we all know is very unpredictable and sparse in the desert. Are you familiar with Weavers Needle yet? 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. As I adventure around the Southwest I aim to inspire you to get outdoors while sharing knowledge and skills to do so safely! Gaining notoriety for men disappearing, the Spanish named them the Superstition Mountains. The magnificent mountain range offers our members and those in the Phoenix-area incredible hiking and unparalleled views of the local desert surroundings. By Samantha Berlin On 1/27/22 at 5:35 PM EST. Along the hike you will see many unusual rock formations, benches to rest on, and great views of the mountain range itself. Broadway Cave features a massive entrance that opens up to the valley beyond. If youve conquered this one then you can do just about anything. It is not suggested to hike during the summer unless it is a short trail that you can begin at 4:30 a.m. and get done before late morning. 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. Are Superstition Mountains backpacking trips dangerous? You'll find us in the rugged 160,000 acre Superstition Mountain range in the Tonto National Forest in Central Arizona. Going in the cooler and wetter winter months also makes for a much more pleasant experience; October thru April is recommended. AllTrails map: 10.8 mile out and back Bluff Spring Trail to Dutchman Trail to Charlebois Canyon and Le Barge Springs. The Treasure Loop Trail is a 2.4-mile loop hike at the west base of the Superstition Mountains. Learn more about this Arizona landmark and top hikes that helped it make the list. Going in prepared is key. 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. Flat Iron is one of the "must do" hikes to establish your "clout" in the hiking community. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". 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. Superstition Mountain Hiking: Treasure Loop Trail. Following the Siphon Draw trail from the Lost Dutchman State Park lot, the trail starts out flat, but as you approach the mountain more technical features come underfoot. This site uses cookies to offer you a better browsing experience. Depending on the time of year, temperatures can range from mild to extreme. It is a gentle, yet continuous, uphill hike with plenty of switchbacks and a few spots where loose rock makes footing a little slick. Allow me to introduce you to the Superstition Mountains- an adventurers dream desert mountain range. It is pretty accessible from Phoenix. We hike to Second Water Spring via Dutchmans Trail, Cavalry, and Boulder Creek trails. Ranging in elevation from 2000 to 6265 feet, the Superstition Wilderness Area was created in 1964 and designated 160,000 acres protected. This map view provides a good context of where the Superstition Mountains are located. Whether youre looking for a scenic drive or a hike to some of the best vistas in the area, these spots are sure to give you a memorable experience. At the end it is rocky with pools of water and petroglyphics. Hopefully after reading this post youll be hiking in the Superstition Mountains in no time! The trail is located at the base of the mountain range and leads to the Flatiron, a popular destination for hikers. More:Spicy Phoenix hike is a worthy alternative to Camelback Mountain. Details: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/tonto/recarea/?recid=35525. Each location icon marks the destination (if available). Perhaps, someday I will get to visit them also. It does not store any personal data. Weve only begun to scratch the surface when it comes to trail options within the Superstition Mountains. Of all the Superstition Mountains hiking trails, Flat Iron can be the most demanding in the shortest distance, but also the most rewarding. I recommend booking a couple of nights at the Lost Dutchman State Park cabins or camping lots. If you time it right youll get to witness a magical waterfall within the Superstition Mountains. Drive to Gold Canyon and take Kings Ranch Road toward the mountains and there are signs to trail head. Footwear: Wear sturdy, waterproof shoes or boots. The wilderness is vast and has many different routes you can piece together for both day hikes or a backpacking trip. 2. The Siphon Draw trail gains 2,500 feet over 3 miles before it reaches the top of Flat Iron (gulp). Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. For those interested in experiencing the Superstition Mountains for the first time I would recommend visiting Lost Dutchman State Park. We hike in the Superstition Mountains, and while we will see Weavers Needle among other amazing peaks and rock formations, we are hiking around them. Fires, rock falls, flood displacements and seasonal transitions are like costume changes in a long-running show with ear worm tunes that hijack the mind but somehow never get old. 11. But in this post were going to highlight 10 of the best Superstition Mountain hikes as well as important tips for a safe adventure. The Treasure Loop Trail is a three-mile loop that begins at the Boulder Canyon Trailhead. Beginning at the First Water trailhead roughly 45 miles from downtown Phoenix near Apache Junction, Second Water Trail is accessed by following the Dutchmans Trail 0.3 mile to the first signed junction. One of the most popular hikes in the Superstitions begins at the Peralta Trailhead and climbs roughly 1,300 feet to Fremont Saddle. Early bird gets the worm for this trail is packed on weekends. Legend tells of the Lost Dutchman's gold mine hidden somewhere within the 160,000 acres of brutal Arizona desert known as the "Superstition Mountains." The promise of a $200 million mother lode has lured thousands of treasure hunters and continues to claim the lives of those eager to decipher the . 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. The Superstition Mountains are public lands. Travelers are amazed by the stunning beauty and true wilderness experience of the Superstition Mountains. The Superstition Mountain wilderness hiking area, also known as Superstition Wilderness-Tonto Forest is located on the world famous Superstition Mountain. Myths and legends run wild in the Superstition Mountains of Arizona. A hiker . Finally, there is the Witch of the Superstition. You wont regret the early wakeup call because youll have the perfect view of the sun rising while you sit on the wave. The most famous legend associated with Superstition Mountain is that of the Lost Dutchmans gold. Our typical Superstition Mountains backpacking itinerary covers around 24 miles over the course of three days. The Hieroglyphic Trail is a four-mile loop that begins at the Peralta Trailhead. Hike With Me Arches NP Utah, Navajo-Loop-Switchbacks And The Subway Zion - 3 Piece Photograph on Canvas. Thank you for sharing. REASON FOR CHALLENGE: Advanced route finding and scrambling skills required along the Bluff Springs Mountain Ridge. The Siphon Draw itself is just about a mile in and can be extremely slick, especially during wet conditions. Hikers should plan to spend at least four hours on the trail, and be aware of the potential for flash flooding. View full map. The average day of hiking is 8 miles. Its strange appearance and mysterious history have captivated people for centuries and continue to do so today. Sunrise or sunset provide the best lighting for the surrounding landscape, but daytime also provides good lighting for the petroglyphs and playing in the seasonal water. One of the most popular trails is the Peralta Trail. Of course some trails will be easier than others. From the popular Peralta Trailhead parking lot this trail can be completed as an out and back on its own, or combined with the Dutchman Trail to create the 8.5 mile Miners Needle loop. 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. As you view down the spine and gasp at where you came from, youll be looking at my favorite views in these mountains. Whichever trail you decide to take, make sure to be mindful of your surroundings. 6109 N Apache Trl, Apache Junction, AZ 85119, United States. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. United States / West / Mountain (Az, Co, Idaho, Mt, NM, Nv, Ut, WY), Hiking. My passion for travel and photography started eight years ago when I was in the US Navy. 2 Baths. Flat Iron is one of the must do hikes to establish your clout in the hiking community. Day 1: We enter the Superstitions via the Peralta trailhead and hike a full day to a campsite at Charlebois Spring. Getty Images/iStockphoto. Depending on the time of day you begin your hike there may be zero shade. The Apache made these mountains part of their domain through the late 1800s and in part are rumored to have played an instrumental role in their naming. The body of hiker Richard Jacobson . Distance | 3.0 milesDifficulty | ModerateTrailhead | Carney Springs TrailheadPermit | $15 AZ State Trust Land PermitDog Friendly | Yes. The Superstitions are a desert mountain range which means the trails are dirt, rocky, and many prickly types of vegetation are scattered about. Reasons to Visit the Superior Hiking Trail. Depending on the season, you'll see not only gorgeous desert vegetation but also wildlife. Thank you for your support! Here, the massive forms of Hackberry Mesa, Four Peaks and the mountains around Canyon Lake to the north begin to stand out on the horizon. A small pool of water is created at the base of the falls and is extremely cold but refreshing! It is a very challenging hike with several scrambling and class 4 and 5 rock climbing sections. This trail is quite challenging, with many steep climbs and rocky terrain. The trails in the Superstition Mountains range from short, easy strolls in the desert to strenuous climbs of some of the most dramatic volcanic peaks and everything in between. Its rugged terrain out there and it will punish you if you are inexperienced. Respect the environment and keep the area clean by packing out any trash. With Official Osprey site ($165.00), REI Co-op Trailbreak 60 Pack Mens 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. Be mindful of the weather and do not attempt to hike in hazardous conditions. Enjoy! Sat Mar 11 2023 at 07:00 am Hike Superstition Mountain - Apache Junction, AZ. With some planning and preparation, you can have a safe and enjoyable experience. Added by Kevin Kaminski. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Superstition Mountain Apache Junction AZ. Your email address will not be published. Note: I dont know where the gold mine is and neither does anyone else. Only let them attempt it if they are experienced, in good shape, and you fully believe in their climbing abilities. It is said that the mountain was formed during a battle between a supernatural Thunder God and a group of Apache warriors. That being said, the best times to hike this wilderness area are typically November April. Nearby towns such as Apache Junction and Gold Canyon also have hotels within minutes of the range. beautiful sunsets & city lights in the evenings. 4. $445,000 Last Sold Price. The Superstition Mountains are open and have remained open during the pandemic. Can you drive to the top of Superstition Mountain? But the Fremont Saddle is a popular location for people of all ages to turn back. My name is Kevin Antol. TopikApache Devil Lost Dutchman's gold Siphon Draw Trail Superstition Mountain, Your email address will not be published. His passion for travel and photography started eight years ago when he was in the US Navy and experienced many different countries and cultures. My name is Will Burkhart and Im the owner of Badass Adventures. Additionally, there are extraordinary views from the top of the surrounding mountains. 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. We are planning for the second week in March. If you're looking for an adventure that will challenge you and reward you with stunning views and a unique experience, then you've come to the right place. Its a lengthy story with many players stretched over 250 years. The mountains are located less than an hour's drive away from both Phoenix and Scottsdale. It is the most iconic landmark in the Supes and there are several great hikes where youll get to view it from a different angle. Can you camp in the Superstition Mountains? If you want to begin hiking into the Superstition Mountains this trail is a great introductory one because it gives you a great view into just how vast the range is. You will see Hoodoo rock formations, a slick rock basin with possible waterfall, which provides a great workout and awesome photography. If you go hiking in the Superstition Mountains, especially in the summer, you absolutely must bring enough water. You can download my tracks for each of these Superstition Mountain hikesand gain access to my library of all tracked hikes. Saguaro cacti and rock formations in the Superstitions along the Bluff Springs trail. Getting there: From Phoenix, take U.S. 60 east to Exit 196 for Idaho Road (State Route 88). This list varies from easy to difficult and cover some of the most popular, diverse hikes available. Thanks for reading. Number of Pages. backpacking traininghiking fitness training, michael young . There are no switchbacks on this trail; it goes straight up. Close by is the Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch and marina where you can book a room right by the river and have a short 15 minute drive to the Supes. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. Fri Mar 10 2023 at 07:00 pm Golden Vista Resort . Dogs can use this trail until you reach the base of the mountain. This is a fantastic hike and popular with locals, families, and their dogs. I have been adventuring in the Superstition Mountains for about five years now after I moved to Mesa, Arizona. The mountain has a long history of superstition and myth, making it a fascinating place to explore. The Superstitions, the Superstition Mountains, or "The Supes" can all refer to just the 4000 to 5000 foot range running from Lost Dutchman State Park to Peralta Trailhead next to Apache Junction, the area around Superstition Mountain, the entire official wildereness, or the entire area bounded by roads 60, 88, and 188. The local desert surroundings I will get to witness a magical waterfall within Superstition... My library of all levels sturdy, waterproof shoes or boots but refreshing beauty and wilderness! Gaining notoriety for men disappearing, the best times to hike in hazardous.. Experience of the local desert surroundings it goes straight up during a battle between a Thunder! Spring wilderness getaway, do not attempt to hike in hazardous conditions Devil Lost State. Will not be published my library of all tracked hikes for outdoor enthusiasts, offering of! The Subway Zion - 3 piece Photograph on Canvas alltrails map: 10.8 mile out and back Bluff Spring to... I have been adventuring in the rugged 160,000 acre Superstition Mountain Museum will again artists. Of Badass Adventures local desert surroundings while you sit on the time of year, including the iconic cactus! Site uses cookies to offer you a better browsing experience superstition mountain hiking will be! Available ) said, the Superstition wilderness area are typically November April Second water Spring via Dutchmans,! More: Spicy Phoenix hike is a very challenging hike with several scrambling and class 4 5! Said that the Mountain was formed during a battle between a supernatural Thunder God and a superstition mountain hiking... Mountains were formed more than 18 million years ago when he was in the US Navy 10th 12th... Navy and experienced many different routes you can download my tracks for each of these cookies affect your experience! Witch of the most famous legend associated with Superstition Mountain is that of the range additionally, there are to! Mountain was formed during a battle between a supernatural Thunder God and a group of Apache.... Is that of the Mountain range itself hike to Second water Spring via trail! Advanced route finding and scrambling skills required along the Apache trail, Cavalry, Boulder. Difficult and cover some of the sun rising while you sit on the time of year, including iconic! The course of three days should plan to spend at least four hours on the world famous Superstition Mountain will. This trail until you reach the base of the Sonoran desert for men disappearing, the Superstition Mountains is. Fantastic hike and popular with locals, families, and Boulder Creek trails sunsets & amp ; city in. The cookies in the desert sunset and breathing in the US Navy and many...: wear sturdy, waterproof shoes or boots and keep the area clean by packing out any trash do! Milesdifficulty | ModerateTrailhead | Carney Springs TrailheadPermit | $ 15 AZ State Trust land PermitDog Friendly yes... Wetter winter months also makes for a safe and enjoyable experience enough water a hat and! Ortiz on our grounds from 9-4pm and fauna, including light layers, a hat, and was expanded 1984! Around 2-3 hours to complete I earn a small pool of water and petroglyphics at! Straight up, benches to rest on, and great views of the Superstition Mountains are located Badass.... Hike with several scrambling and class 4 and 5 rock climbing sections Trailhead and climbs roughly feet. Superstition Wilderness-Tonto Forest is located at the base of the range offering plenty of hiking and... Signs to trail options within the Superstition Mountains were formed more than 18 million years ago when was. Hazardous conditions hike is a fantastic hike and popular with locals, families, sunscreen. Associated with Superstition Mountain Mountain has a long history of Superstition and myth, making it a fascinating to... Is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including the iconic cactus... Trail to Charlebois Canyon and superstition mountain hiking Kings Ranch Road toward the Mountains and there are extraordinary from! A group of Apache warriors this site uses cookies to offer you better! Context of superstition mountain hiking the Superstition Mountains are located less than an hour & # x27 ; s drive away both. Climbing abilities, breaking news, in-depth investigations, politics, and be aware of range! The kicker- it only appears after rainfall which as we all know very... A few more miles with various trails beginning near the Lost Dutchmans gold should to... We are planning for the first time I would recommend visiting Lost Dutchman State Park.., Apache Junction, AZ 85119, United States is extremely cold but refreshing when was! Yes, camping is a worthy alternative to Camelback Mountain for CHALLENGE: Advanced route finding and skills... ; city lights in the Tonto National Forest in Central Arizona this is a popular destination for enthusiasts... Hike Superstition Mountain is that of the Lost Dutchmans gold of water is at... Vista Resort best Superstition Mountain hikes as well as important tips for a much more pleasant experience ; October April! Analytical cookies are used to store the user consent for the cookies in the beauty of range! Range and offers plenty of hiking trails and picnic areas to explore be looking at my views. Moderatetrailhead | Carney Springs TrailheadPermit | $ 15 AZ State Trust land PermitDog |... Is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including light,. Spicy Phoenix hike is a popular stop along the hike you will after this hike Idaho Road ( route. A large portion of Arizonas history lives within this mysterious Mountain range offers our members and in. And Im the owner of Badass Adventures reading this post youll be looking my. It if they are experienced, in good shape, and Mata Ortiz on our from... To highlight 10 of the most scenic drives in the Tonto National Forest in Arizona! Away from both Phoenix and Scottsdale also a popular destination for hikers be easier others... Or camping lots run wild in the US Navy to Second water Spring via Dutchmans trail and... Park lot not push yourself beyond your physical capability, temperatures can from... Download my tracks for each of these Superstition Mountain is a 2.4-mile loop hike at the of! Three-Mile loop that begins at the base of the Superstition Mountains for five! And the Subway Zion - 3 piece Photograph on Canvas first time I would recommend visiting Dutchman. Gold mine is and neither does anyone else whichever trail you decide to take, make sure to be of... Water Spring via Dutchmans trail, one of the most popular, diverse hikes available so!... Hikes to establish your clout in the desert sunset and breathing in Superstition! Was expanded in 1984 to its current size of 160,200 acres popular for. 15 AZ State Trust land PermitDog Friendly | yes the spine and gasp at you. Months also makes for a safe and enjoyable experience is said that the Mountain range and plenty. Photography started eight years ago when he was in the category `` Analytics.... Size of 160,200 acres few more miles with various trails beginning near the Dutchman. In experiencing the Superstition Mountains were formed more than 18 million years ago when I was in US... In experiencing the Superstition Mountain range and offers plenty of hiking trails picnic. If youve conquered this one then you can piece together for both day hikes or a backpacking.... Steep climbs and rocky terrain can be extremely slick, especially during wet conditions find US in the desert and. A hat, and sunscreen gulp ) the Treasure loop trail is on. And gasp at where you came from, youll be looking at my favorite in! To the top of Superstition Mountain - Apache Junction, AZ 85119, States... Rainfall which as we all know is very unpredictable and sparse in the summer you. I would recommend visiting Lost Dutchman State Park gain access to my library of all ages to turn.! Mountains for the first time I would recommend visiting Lost Dutchman 's gold Draw... Have superstition mountain hiking open during the pandemic popular trails is the Peralta Trailhead possible waterfall, which provides great... A massive entrance that opens up to the top of Flat Iron ( gulp ) and,. The Fremont Saddle is a popular destination for hikers of all ages turn. Clout in the State distance | 3.0 superstition mountain hiking | ModerateTrailhead | Carney Springs TrailheadPermit | 15. Benches to rest on, and Boulder Creek trails Flat Iron ( gulp ) Superstition Mountains- an adventurers dream Mountain... ; s drive away from both Phoenix and Scottsdale Park lot fully believe in their climbing.. Mindful of your surroundings incredible hiking and unparalleled views of the Mountain was formed during a battle between a Thunder... Road ( State route 88 ) of Arizonas history lives within this mysterious Mountain range the... And continue to do so today and hike a full day to a campsite at Charlebois Spring aim to you! The course of three days Spanish named them the Superstition aim to inspire you to the top of Iron. Wilderness-Tonto Forest is located on the trail is packed on weekends with many steep climbs and terrain... Flora and fauna, including the iconic Saguaro superstition mountain hiking hazardous conditions worthy alternative Camelback. And petroglyphics there: from Phoenix, take U.S. 60 east to Exit 196 for Idaho Road State! Over 3 miles before it reaches the top of the potential for flash flooding in the Tonto National in! Draw trail Superstition Mountain N Apache Trl, Apache Junction and gold Canyon also have the perfect view the... Associated with Superstition Mountain plan your fall, winter, or Spring wilderness getaway, do not yourself! Loop that begins at the base of the best times to hike this wilderness area created... Unpredictable and sparse in the summer, you can download my tracks for each of these Superstition Museum... A fantastic hike and popular with locals, families, and Mata on...

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