Getting to Fish Creek is pretty easy, too. Our first comes from Aravaipa Ambassador Amber Fifield who regularly seeks out adventures in remote mountains and canyons across Arizona. Petrified Forest National Part and North Eastern AZ, Granite Mountain (McDowell Sonoran Preserve), Box Canyon (Christopher Creek- *Technical), San Tan Regional Park - San Tan trail loops, Petrified Forest National Park and North Eastern AZ. Now for the review - the ridge part of the hike is epic. If you have the luxury hiking on a weekday, especially during cooler months, you may want to consider packing that brunch to go as you might wind up with the whole cave to yourself. So, youve just reached Fremont Saddle. Why you should go: A great way to approach Charlebois following recent rains. Just go at your own pace and start early in the day. The marina at Canyon Lake will take care of all of your boating needs, and additionally has a campground for lodging! The elevation gain is also gradual. 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* Over the next century, his confidant and thousands of other determined parties have searched for the gold only to come up empty. The Treasure Loop Trail #56 starts from the Saguaro day use area. However, for accuracy sake there are dozens of maintained trails in the Sups longer than the Pass Mountain loop, which along with Cat's Peak, is actually in Usery Park. Learn more about our editorial policies here. Don't let that discourage you, though! Really want to amp up your trip? It runs through State Trust Land so you will need a permit to run these trails.. Why you should go: Springtime wildflowers and craggy rock formations. It is full of history and tales of gold, as well as 100-year-old saguaro cacti, vista views, and wildlife. To note, the day use gate closes at 8pm, so plan accordingly if you're doing the full loop. I counted 18 stream crossings to complete the loop. Got lucky and found lot parking but lot was pretty full. Hitting the road from Dallas to Houston, or vice versa? It intersects many trails along the way and is generally a north/south trail. I decided just to crawl up that rock flat rock area the rest of the way on all 4s. There's no better way to appreciate nature than being fully immersed in it for days and weeks on end. Its about more than standing on the mountain top. Legend has it the Peralta family originally from northern Mexico came to these mountains in search of gold in the 1840s. It is family andpet friendly, incredibly scenic, and rich with gold-mining history and the Lost Dutchman's Buried Treasure. 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 . I watched so many people slipping and falling in their tennis shoes. Muddy trail. 1. Good trails, some slippery parts, loose rocks, decent hike overall, beautiful scenery. MaybeCat PeaksTrailin the nearby Usery Mountains is right for you. Backpacking in the Supes is a one-of-a-kind experience. Its common to get into a flow while hiking one foot in front of the other and glance up here and there for the views. You choose your adventure! your device to facilitate the operation and functionality of our site, To start this trek, youll park at First Water trailhead. You will cross First Water Creek several times, so if you are doing this hike during the rainy season, heres your chance to take pleasure in some fresh water. Whether youre a zealous desert advocate or simply passing through central California, Death Valley is certainly one of the strangest National Parks out there and well worth a camping trip. From the Cholla parking area, it is a short walk to the Saguaro parking area to complete the loop. There was some water running down, the rocks and the views are incredible. It was breathtaking from the very beginning. DON'T CLIMB ON OR TOUCH THE HEIROGRLYPHS!! Photographs 11 views of the trail and the Superstition Mountains. Went around 2pm on a weekend. And as Ive said before, exploring this region of the Superstitions makes for a great backpacking trip. But its nice and easy and the end view is beautiful. We hike regularly and are fit. The friendly and informative staff makes you feel as if you really are in a Wild West town, perfect for the curious traveler and families of all ages! Why you should go: A potpourri of Superstition grandeur. Directions: Lost Dutchman TH: Drive east from Phoenix on U.S. Highway 60. The map is a straight line. A GPS download and a map will come in handy. Like walking into a desert forest. Hat and sunscreen are a must. Along the way, youll come to sign labeled Plow Saddle which is the start to an alternative. I strongly recommend doing it as a point-to-point where you start at Flat Iron and end at the Hieroglyphics trailhead. It eventually meets a well maintained trail. Some explorers have even faced their death in search of The Lost Mine. So while we dont recommend looking for gold yourself, you are certain to find the promised land here in youre looking for a great hike. One of four lakes created by Salt River dams (the others are Roosevelt Lake, Apache Lake and Saguaro Lake), Canyon Lake is the most strikingly beautiful of the quad. Let the Sonoran Desert be your guide to limitless adventure. It's rugged terrain out there and it will punish you if you are inexperienced. All rights reserved. To U.S. 60. I didnt like all the small/medium rock on that portion of the loop because it made it impossible to jog it. While solitude isnt always in the cards on the Peralta Trail, it does offer a journey through a mystical canyon and a desert wonderland even the drive to the trailhead feels like a gift. Start early if you can, it helps to avoid the crowds, especially in the narrow corridor stretches. Unless youre capable of hiking nearly 20 miles in a day, I highly suggest getting your tent (or hammock) and sleeping bag ready. Why you should go: Short climb to a seasonal pool and Hohokam petroglyphs. This creek bed turns into the trail going south. We parked in the camping area lot (which is where the directions take you). You should also point out that the southern part of the Pass Mountain Loop along with Cat's Peak are some of the most popular mountain biking areas in the region. Are you looking for a great day pack? Depending on the time of year, there will be more or less water in the creek. About 3.5 miles in, a trail enters from the east this is the turnoff. 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. This means the hike is 24 miles, not 19, so be careful of that. There is an aquifer-fed spring/creek to refill water, but be sure to pack plenty regardless. It starts at Rogers Trough Trailhead, and a high clearance with 4WD is recommended to get back here, especially after a good rain. Although much of the history of Tortilla Flat has been lost to time, tourists all along the Apache Trail find the charming little town warm and inviting for a much-deserved break to stretch their legs. Superstition Wilderness Mesa Ranger District 5140 E. Ingram St. Mesa, Arizona 85205 480.610.3300 Monday-Friday: 8 am - noon | 12:30 pm - 4:30 pm Trip Reports "This is a great alternative to hiking back on the Peralta Trail and I recommend it if you have the time. Park at Lost Dutchman State Park for $7 per vehicle and you can start the loop at one of two places: the Cholla day-use area or the Saguaro day-use area. Loose rocks on trail. Ready to get out there? Stuck with the all trails GPS, looked out for cairns and blazes, and made it through. Eventually, youll descend into the riverbed (keep in mind that during the rainy season, or during storms, there is a high chance for flooding). So, when we know water is squared away, we have to take advantage of it. This might deem a good turn around point for some, or you can keep on trekking. Need to Know Bring water. Awesome hike with varied terrain and views. $2,495. The views at the top are monumental! Several trails lead from the park into the Superstition Mountain Wilderness and surrounding Tonto National Forest. From AZ 88, or Apache Trail, you will eventually cross a bridge. Wear hiking books. Easy trail for all ages. This 160,000-acre wilderness area contains over 170 miles of trails traversing the Sonoran Desert. Also, I had no idea that Peralta Road turned into a dirt road. If you finish this hike and enjoy it Id recommend Superstition peak via Carney Springs. Hiking in a clockwise direction means an uphill start and downhill finish but travelling in either direction is permitted. So, lets say you dont want to go as far as Charlebois Springs (previous hike) and youd like to bring the kids along, but you still want to explore the wonders of the western Supes. Park the car at the Carney Springs parking area off of Peralta Road, and then drive to the Siphon Draw Trailhead in Lost Dutchman State Park to start the hike. Superstition Wilderness Area This Wilderness was designated in 1939, and was expanded to its present size in 1984. Youll begin this hike from the Peralta trailhead, and start down the Bluff Springs Trail (bear right). Challenge yourself if youre up to it. Or, you can park at the Crosscut Trailhead for free, but youll add 2.6 additional miles roundtrip. Hike the Treasure Loop trail in the Superstition wilderness of Arizona. Superstition Mountains Area, Mesa, Arizona. The Wave was cool to see. Good hike, trail was in good shape. . Not enough time to do a 7-mile loop? Here, you have the chance to tour the authentic gold mine and the town that once boomed before it sadly died out when the mine dried up. Superstition Mountains: Black Mesa Loop Amber Fifield March 1, 2015 Adventure Run Report This is the first in a series of "Adventure Run Reports" that we will be hosting on the Aravaipa Running blog. You will know you are close to the saddle once the texture of the trail changes to soft bedrock. Pay attention to the cairns and don't get confused by the wash- you should be on a real trail for most of the way down. 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. Its worth hanging out a few extra minutes to soak up the sights and sounds before continuing to Flatirons flat-topped summit. Reviewers of this hike have claimed the navigation is like solving a hard puzzle. Youre almost there, and the views are unparalleled. Before Waltz died, he allegedly told his neighbor the mines location. Weavers Needle is a volcanic monolith soaring nearly 1,300 feet from base to summit. According to the legend, Waltz and his partner successfully extracted gold and supposedly hid a stash somewhere in the Superstition Mountains. RV or tent camp right in the park, and wake up to killer views of those red cliffs. We had to turn around and figure out where the correct trail was. However, its also steeper. The hike described is 2.5 miles for the loop hike described. This desert world offers unbeatable landscapesjust remember to prepare for the summer heat! Rating: Easy to moderate. The off-trail aspect gives this one an especially adventurous flavor. 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. This was a fun hike, but this was really really hard. Why you should go: To appreciate the sound of running water. No matter your ability, the Superstition Wilderness has a day hike for you! When dealing with such a hike, footing can be tricky and requires a bit of route finding in spots. About Lost Dutchman State Park. Just outside Phoenix at the base of the Superstition Mountains. Although there are creeks and springs along the way, don't count on them. A high clearance vehicle is recommended. Fish Creek isnt much of a trail and there is no real destination point, which, in my opinion, is a positive aspect. But youll need to manage a handful of moves on your way up. This is a family friendly hike. Next time I'll try to make it to the waterfall! We'll help you pick the right season for you. It's rated as moderate and gains 500 feet in elevation. Looking for a fairly gentle hike just a bit of umph? The Superstition Mountain Range is a unique and vast region located in central Arizona. Its now on my to-do list. In reality, you would probably (assuming you're not camping) start at the day use parking lot, which adds just over a mile round trip. Sign up to receive our newsletter packed with the best adventure guides, travel ideas, news, and articles. The streams were low enough to be able to skip across the rocks without getting your feet wet. You can learn more about our editorial policies, 12 Best Hikes in Arizona, From Desert to Tundra, Charlebois Spring (Via Peralta trailhead), Charlebois Spring (Via First Water trailhead), 11 Best Campgrounds in Death Valley National Park, 12 Epic Hiking Camps & Summer Backpacking Trips, 9 of the Best Places to Camp Near Sedona, Arizona, 12 Awe-Inspiring Airbnbs Near Big Bend National Park, Nude Hiking: How to (Legally) Celebrate Naked Hiking Day, 10 Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado, The Best Stops on an Epic Dallas to Houston Road Trip. 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. Why you should go: Get a dose of cave therapy. Additional info: Superstition Ridgeline Trail. 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. Or, you can start with the Boulder Canyon Trail, which is accessed from across the Canyon Lake Marina parking area. 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. If Flatiron isnt enough for you, weve got you covered with this hike. Perfect for the kids, perfect for the doggos, and perfect for the first-time or beginner hiker. Why you should go: Rainy-day cascades in Siphon Draw and impressive views atop Flatiron. This is a nice introductory hike to the Superstition mountain wilderness area. An anecdote about Fish Creek is that it is a source of native fish the Apache Trout. 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. Elevation gain-3,000ft. We only made it to the top of siphon draw because we did not leave early enough in the day to have enough daylight to make it to the top not to mention we were really exhausted. Additional info: Fish Creek (via Apache Trail). Add 11:38 to my time and .75 miles to my distance for the stretch where I accidentally stopped the app. This trail starts at the Peralta Trailhead and goes through the Superstition Wilderness. Although it can be quite crowded on the weekends during the peak season,the views from the saddleare absolutely worth it. The hardest part was superstition mountain peak as scrambling and lack of trail in parts made it tough. In late February through March, this is one of the best wildflower trails you're likely to come across (dependent on winter rains). Also should not be rated the same level of difficulty as camelback and other hikes in the area. Lovely area. If youre going to the top, plan on being out there a good five hours. This melting pot eventually grew into what archeologists now call the Salado culture. Fall is usually the best time. The rugged peaks can be seen from miles away, seeming to invite outdoor enthusiasts to explore its many hidden canyons. ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. The route you choose will also determine the difficulty and length. 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. A favorite spot in the town is Mammoth Steakhouse and Saloon, known for burgers, beer, and prickly pear margaritas! Why you should go: An old windmill, an abandoned corral, an oasis in the desert! These mountains take on a different life force once the sun goes down, and its worth it to feel it for yourself. When we left around 11 there was a line of cars waiting to park. In case you want to crank up the heat while youre out there, there are several trails that shoot off from the loop trail and up toward the base of the mountains. Worth a trip! Beautiful trail, but a lot of the hieroglyphs have been destroyed by people climbing on them. The current Apache Trail links Apache Junction at the edge of the Greater Phoenix . Just remember, this is the desert. 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. Got there around 830 or 9 on a friday, there were a few people when we started, not too bad though. This choice turned a 4-mile hike into a 9-mile one. But when the timing is right almost any given winter or early spring day the Supes satisfy nearly any craving for adventure and solitude. Totally worth it. The Peralta trail is a popular way to get to Freemont saddle and a great view of Weaver's Needle. Summer days may offer unforgiving heat or violent thunderstorms. Thats how I felt during this trek. One of the most popular hikes in the area, for good reason, is thePeralta Canyon Trail. From LDSP, the trail begins flat and slowly starts to rise. Elevation: 1,940-2,420 feet (878 feet of accumulated elevation change). Here are sixof our favorite hikes! From paleontology and archeology to anthropology and geology, along with plenty of activity for the kids, this museum has got you covered. For all the Supes veterans, give yourselves a pat on the back, because its rough out there. Once you get past the turnoff to Flat Iron (Siphon Draw), the trail is virtually empty and you have the whole ridge to yourself. 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 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. Why you should go: In just four miles, you get some of the Supes sweetest sights. Why you should go: Sip fresh spring water and enjoy some petroglyphs. This trail, in particular, keeps me humbled and healed. when you get to get to the barbered wire- theres a way thru that.. totally worth pictures on the wave rock! 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. Canyoneering 3: Loop Hikes in Utah's Escalante by Steve Allen (English) Paperbac. Decades later, Jacob Waltz, aka "the Dutchman," was said to have found the mine, and hid gold in the Superstitions. To Superior. Lots of scrambling. To Payson. An easy to moderate day hike, Treasure Loop is a must-do for all outdoor enthusiasts. If you read the previous hike description, youll notice that I did this hike by accident, but I wasnt the least bit disappointed. The summer heat is unforgiving and is mercilesson unprepared visitors. Additional info: Charlebois Spring (Via First Water trailhead). Being naked is sometimes fun. Good workout, incredible view of Gold Canyon. Take note that you will weave through a neighborhood to get to the trailhead down South Kings Ranch Road off US 60 East. 23-mile figure 8 loop trail. Located along the southern rim, Superstition Loop allows 4x4 users to enjoy the towering peaks while driving along an easy off-road trail. This route is longer than the hike via 109 South by roughly 3 miles (covered in the following section) but its also less strenuous on your legs and your vehicle. The first section of this hike is the desert landscape weve all grown to know and love in the Supes. $37.13. She is a Phoenix-based journalist with five years of writing and editing experience. The person who made this all trails route shouldve hiked the route before submitting. Just pace yourself and watch your step and youll do well. Regardless of the potential challenges, the Cave Trail is a crowd-pleaser. But while youre flowing, keep your eyes as peeled as possible for the cairns, or you may miss the turnoff to the summit. Toward the end, the incline straddles the line between easy and moderate. From Ma Ha Tauk Trail, turn left to proceed to Crosscut Trail. Surrounded by national forest, the Tonto National Monument features cliff dwellings that were once occupied by the Salado culture. It can be as straightforward or as sporadic as you want. Day hikes can turn into backpacking trips, and vice versa. Parker Pass is a great option. 2021Outdoor Project. Prepare to get wet. The AllTrails map helped a lot, and there was service most of time. THANK YOU ALLTRAILS If it wasnt for the app I would have to pull up a spot for a few hours of shut eye. It also means that you will rarely have access to water sources or shade. Do recommend. Lost Dutchman State Parkofferscamping opportunities for tent users and RV campers as well aspicnic areas for day use visitors. It presents an adventure for rock climbers, too, some of which have even camped out at the top. This hike is shorter than the north side, too, by 3 miles. We did our best to provide you with the best directions from HikeArizona. Is the Dutchmans Lost Gold Mine real? Although the range only tops out at 6,266 feet, the area seems grand due to its substantially flat surroundings. So thats why Im only giving it two stars. One of the most popular hikes in the Superstitions begins at the Peralta Trailhead and climbs roughly 1,300 feet to Fremont Saddle. 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. Tales of gold, mystery and phenomena defines the lore of the Superstitions. Look for a ridgetop slanting downward from left to right at its base and off to the right youll see a small horizontal opening. Get a permit to be here! Slightly more difficult but even better 360 degree views! Well marked and maintained. Shared By: Hiking Project Staff Full Details Trail Ratings 4.5 from 4 votes Trail Rankings #3 Youll get started at the Crosscut Trailhead off of First Water Road. The bold canyon walls drop the temperature quite a bit, creating a separate world just off the Treasure Loop Trail area. I love the Superstitions and I'm glad you do to. It was a rapid incline the rest of the way to the top of Siphon Draw. The creek was flowing strong - impossible to keep the feet dry. A great half day adventure,Pass Mountain Trailis the longest hike in the park at 7.5 miles with approximately 710 feetof elevation gain. Definitely factor that in when considering this hike. Want to report conditions for this trail? The ghost town of Terlingua is the only notable settlement in the nearby vicinity, and it's around here where you'll find the best airbnbs near Big Bend. If you do take this trail, a good spot to turn around is the saddle between the spires. The ranch is abundant of tasty apple trees and some pear trees free for visitors to enjoy. If you decide to go during a warmer day, there may be a trickle. Climbing along the ridge was awesome, though everything was pretty overgrown so we did lose the trail a few times. There around 830 or 9 on a friday, there were a few people when we left 11!: Drive east from Phoenix on U.S. Highway 60 you want some explorers have even camped out the! 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