First, the mountain itself is mysterious and has an intriguing history. 7. Length: 4.6 mi Est. You will see Hoodoo rock formations, a slick rock basin with possible waterfall, which provides a great workout and awesome photography. Hello Will, my name is Mike Young, myself and three others are planning a 5 day backpacking trip in the Superstition Mts. Elevation: 1,940-2,420 feet (878 feet of accumulated elevation change). The 21-year-old hiker was reportedly camping with a friend on top of Flat Iron when he fell. Im 32 years old and I grew up in, For those interested in experiencing the Superstition Mountains for the first time I would recommend visiting Lost Dutchman State Park. The Siphon Draw Trail is one of the most popular trails in the Superstition Mountains. Black Top Mesa is another hike that features the needle, but also something else that is unique. The elevation is also mostly below 5,000 feet, so altitude sickness is not an issue. Additionally, there are extraordinary views from the top of the surrounding mountains. The Siphon Draw trail to the Flatiron in the Superstition Mountains is a challenging hike for even the most avid hiker. Supposedly there a little cave a miner had found full of gold, became wealthy and took the location of the gold to his deathbed. It also means that you will rarely have access to water sources or shade. The Superstition Mountains are public lands. 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. Rating: Easy to moderate. Hosting magical waterfalls, deep canyons, steep cliff edges, and unique rock formations, this wilderness is the perfect destination for hiking, backpacking, and even rock climbing. We provide an historical context that includes the region's . With more than 140 miles of well-developed trails, and more than 100 miles of . This trail has some unique rock structures. Official Osprey site ($165.00), REI Co-op Trailbreak 60 Pack Mens Plant life grows more robust as the route starts a spiral down into a reedy, damp gorge where it intersects the Boulder Canyon Trail, the turnaround point for this hike. Our focus is on providing visitors with an experience of the Old West. Copyright 2020 Superstition Mountain. One of the best ways to truly experience the Superstition Mountains is by foot on its numerous trails. The kicker- it only appears after rainfall which as we all know is very unpredictable and sparse in the desert. Wear appropriate clothing, bring plenty of water, and tell someone where you are going. We hike to Second Water Spring via Dutchmans Trail, Cavalry, and Boulder Creek trails. While it is long in length the elevation gain isnt too much to handle nor is it strenuous. This protected land was designated in 1939, and was expanded in 1984 to its current size of 160,200 acres. SOLD FEB 14, 2023. Finally, there is the Witch of the Superstition. Im 32 years old and I grew up in Scottsdale, Arizona. If youre looking for an adventure that will challenge you and reward you with stunning views and a unique experience, then youve come to the right place. This historic site has reminders of the old west with grave sites, native ruins, and farming equipment along the way, making the Reavis Ranch trail one of the best well-rounded hikes in the Superstitions. Allow me to introduce you to the Superstition Mountains- an adventurers dream desert mountain range. Getting there: From Phoenix, take U.S. 60 east to Exit 196 for Idaho Road (State Route 88). Superstition Mountain (Yavapai: Wi:kchsawa, O'odham: Gakok) is a prominent mountain and regional landmark located in the Phoenix metropolitan area of Arizona, immediately east of Apache Junction and north of Gold Canyon.It anchors the west end of the federally designated Superstition Wilderness Area and is a popular outdoor recreation destination, home to numerous trails for hiking and . The mountain has a long history of superstition and myth, making it a fascinating place to explore. Some of them will be returning, some are new to this year's event. Another legend revolves around the Apache Devil, a creature that is said to inhabit the area. The roots of this tale also date back to the mid 1700s and grew in fame with the gold rush of 1849. 12. ART. The trail swings by the junctions for Black Mesa and Hackberry Spring trails, which may be used to build longer loop hikes. A hiker camping on a peak in the Superstition Mountains east of metro Phoenix was found dead after apparently slipping while taking a selfie and falling hundreds of feet, authorities said . Hopefully after reading this post youll be hiking in the Superstition Mountains in no time! May 12, 2014. Depending on the time of day you begin your hike there may be zero shade. 8. Recent wildfire damage has left spots of charred cholla and scarred saguaros, but expansive views of the Goldfield Mountains, Superstition ridgeline, the Flatiron and iconic Weavers Needle remain as breathtaking as ever. Thank you for sharing. 10. Hiking in the Superstition Mountains is best enjoyed during the months of November - April. Peralta Trail is another favorite of mine, also in Gold Canyon. Read the full trail guide: Massacre Falls | A magical waterfall in Phoenixs Superstition Mountains. Whichever trail you decide to take, make sure to be mindful of your surroundings. Of all the Superstition Mountains hiking trails, Flat Iron can be the most demanding in the shortest distance, but also the most rewarding. This will take you about 4-5 Hours and the elevation gain is 2781' to Flatiron Summit (5057 ft.) and 2977' to Superstition Peak #5024 (4861 ft) with 360 views and epic sunsets. Towering cliffs and giant hoodoos on the ridge line almost look like landscapes from the Lord of the Rings movies. 2. A 21-year-old hiker died after he fell 700 feet from a mountain peak in Arizona while attempting to take a selfie. . Hiking. 112 Likes, 8 Comments - Phil Shultz Landscape Photography (@philshultz_photography) on Instagram: ""Wishing Falls" Just a slight trickle from last Friday during a hike up this canyon in the" 11. Day 1: We enter the Superstitions via the Peralta trailhead and hike a full day to a campsite at Charlebois Spring. Of course some trails will be easier than others. Thank You loved The article have been looking for some good trails at the Superstition Mountains going to give some of them a tryWith my hiking Buddies. If you like gentle switchbacks, this trail is not for you. Below are some tips I find important for any adventurer to know when entering this majestic wilderness: While the daytime temperature might be warm, once the sun goes down it can get very chilly and fast. The Superstitions are dangerous in the sense that people are often unprepared and not acclimatized to the conditions, particularly the heat. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. Lost Dutchman State Park is home to Siphon Draw Trail which is a difficult hike (my favorite) that takes you to the top of what is known as Flatiron Peak. Black Top Mesa received its name because of the black basalt lava rocks that reveal themselves at the top. Early bird gets the worm for this trail is packed on weekends. Here are a few of the highlights of a hike at Superstition Mountain. While the trail may be short I promise it doesnt sacrifice on views. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. 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? If you havent become familiar with this prominent rock formation you will after this hike. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". By clicking Accept All, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. . U.S. If you begin early enough in the day it is possible you'll have . Richard . The Superstitions hold some of the most beautiful hikes and I am happy to share them. Superstition Mountain is located in the Superstition Wilderness of the Tonto National Forest in Arizona, and is one of the most popular hiking destinations in the state. Superstition Mountain Hiking: Treasure Loop Trail. The Lost Dutchman State Park, which opened in 1977 and has the Peralta Trail, is also a nod at the legend. A large portion of Arizonas history lives within this mysterious mountain range. AllTrails map: 10.8 mile out and back Bluff Spring Trail to Dutchman Trail to Charlebois Canyon and Le Barge Springs. This 24 mile out-and-back features a modest elevation gain of 3,500 feet and is best done as an overnight backpacking trip. Trail Distance: 10.7 miles; Location: Lost Dutchman State Park; Perhaps the hardest and most rewarding spot for hiking in Phoenix is the Superstition Ridgeline Trail, located in Lost Dutchman State Park. If youve conquered this one then you can do just about anything. by Hadley House Co. $529.99. This is a hike that you can accomplish on your own or with the help of a backpacking guide such as myself. I was originally born in Indiana but my family moved us down here for a better life. My name is Kevin Antol. Share This. It's also a popular stop along the Apache Trail, one of the most scenic drives in the state. The Superstition Mountain wilderness hiking area, also known as Superstition Wilderness-Tonto Forest is located on the world famous Superstition Mountain. 2h 44m. It isnt for the faint of heart, though. Yes, there's an actual waterfall at the end of Massacre Grounds Trail. This can be customized depending on your appetite for adventure. Hiking in the Superstition Mountains is exposed with limited shade in dry conditions. With more than 140 miles of well-developed trails, and more than 100 miles of unmarked trails, the Superstition Wilderness Area is a hikers dream. Finally, in no certain order, are 10 incredible hikes you wont want to miss in the Superstition Mountains! Hi there! It is a little further drive, located just east of Phoenix, but the drive is so worth it! Sat Mar 11 2023 at 07:00 am Hike Superstition Mountain - Apache Junction, AZ. The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". Of all the Superstition Mountains hiking trails, Flat Iron can be the most demanding in the shortest distance, but also the most rewarding. Your email address will not be published. So, a mountain hike to a cave is a pretty cool hike to do in Arizona. I couldnt believe how deep it goes back and was surprised to find it is home for several bats. Novice hikers are emboldened by tackling the rugged terrain but not being overwhelmed by it. Hikers should plan to spend at least two hours on the trail and be aware of the potential for flash flooding. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. 9003 E Fox St , Mesa, AZ 85207-5031 is a single-family home listed for-sale at $430,000. The mileage on AllTrails is completely incorrect though the route was . Travelers are amazed by the stunning beauty and true wilderness experience of the Superstition Mountains. Regardless of your skill level, Superstition Mountain has something for everyone. The backdrop of our golf course communities in Arizona was recently recognized asone of the 11 most beautiful hikes in the worldby Architectural Digest. This 2.4 mile round-trip trail features an elevation change of 450 feet and offers some surprising views without the work to ascend the mountainside. This part is all the fun though, so I suggest you leave your furry friend at home. There is nothing quite like standing atop the mountain, watching the desert sunset and breathing in the beauty of the Sonoran Desert. You gain just under 3,000 feet of elevation, most of which is in the last 1 mile of the trail. The highlight of the hike is at the top of the ridge known as Flat Iron, offering views of the rest of the mountain range, local desert and on clear days, views of Mesa, Tempe and Phoenix. Drive to Gold Canyon and take Kings Ranch Road toward the mountains and there are signs to trail head. The pin on the Google map is the Superstition Mountains. Superstition Ridgeline Trail. COUNTRY-MUSIC-FESTIVALS. My passion for travel and photography started eight years ago when I was in the US Navy. Superstition Mountain Museum. Use the buddy system and never hike alone. Your glutes will burn, you breathing will grow heavy, and you may begin to question why you wanted to do this hike in the first place. Length: 7 miles round trip. The Peralta Trail is one of the most popular hikes in the Superstition Mountains, especially in the springtime, when goldpoppies add a splash of color to the rugged landscape of boulders, saguaros and paloverdes. It is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. except on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year. REI size and color availability good ($199.95), Osprey Rook 65 Pack Mens These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. REI and the REI Co-op logo are trademarks of Recreational Equipment, Inc. My name is Kevin Antol. Its varied terrain makes it a great spot for hikers of all levels. PLUS, Usery Pass Regional Park & many hiking trails are within walking distance, adventure awaits! Unlock your dream home - Contact our real estate team TODAY! This post contains affiliate links, which means purchasing through these links I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This route is an excellent moderate, all day hike around the rock formation and a great way to ease yourself deeper into the Superstition Mountains. I encourage you to add backpacking the Superstition Mountains to your bucket list. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These are the cooler months in the Phoenix valley which make hiking these trails more enjoyable. From Fremont Saddle you can connect to different trails and extend your hike if you wish. Since the Superstition Mountains are in the Sonoran Desert, finding water is one of the key challenges during a hike. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. The popular 3.5-mile-long hike is easy to follow and due to the uniqueness of the cave and its rock formations, the trail is heavily trafficked by guests. Heading out from Gold Canyon, you slowly climb along a ridgeline until you enter a steep valley hiding away a creek, ancient rockflows, and best of all . Plan to start in Lost Dutchman State Park in Apache Junction . Getty Images/iStockphoto. Battleship Mountain is my favorite hike in the Superstition Mountains because it is an all day adventure with a high reward. It is a very challenging hike with several scrambling and class 4 and 5 rock climbing sections. This state park is my favorite vantage point of the range. Sign up for access to all Karabou has to offer- GPX file library, Arizona Hike bucket list, and updates on posts and local news and events! Elevation Gain- 1000 feet (305 meters) Trail Type- Loop. Hiking the Hieroglyphic Trail in the Superstition Mountains, Ultimate Guide to Hiking Flatiron via Siphon Draw Trail, Peralta Trail to Fremont Saddle: Arizona Hiking Guide, Weavers Needle Loop Trail in the Superstition Mountains, Hike Battleship Mountain via. This 1.2-mile loop winds through the desert and provides a great introduction to the area. This absolutely . The sparse network of lightly traveled and sometimes indistinct trails offers campers a challenging entry into the wilderness that is part of the Tonto National forest. 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. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Whether youre looking for a challenging hike or just a peaceful walk through nature, Superstition Mountain is a great place to spend the day. The helicopters are for tours and to look for injured or lost hikers. It is said that her curse still affects the people of the area, causing bad luck and misfortune. Camping is generally dispersed in the vicinity of flowing springs. No official designated camp sites exist. Kevin Antol grew up in Scottsdale, Arizona. The most famous legend associated with Superstition Mountain is that of the Lost Dutchmans gold. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. While the name has hieroglyphic in it, what you actually will see are petroglyphs carved into the rocks from thousands of years ago. The parking lot is small so I suggest beginning Wave Cave for sunrise. The subsequent push upward from the depths of this crater-like formation, combined with other forces of nature, created a wilderness 40 minutes east Phoenix that is just loaded with miles of beautiful trail, unique geological features, and rich human history to boot. We backpack on nearly all the trails in the image below. This trail is also quite challenging, with rocky terrain and many steep climbs. Flatiron Summit. Enoy the peacful lifestyle that only Gold Canyon can offer with access to some of the best hiking trails in Arizona. At the top Saddle you can accomplish on your appetite for adventure at $.! Long history of Superstition and myth, making it a great spot for hikers of all the cookies in category! Architectural Digest top Mesa is another favorite of mine, also in Gold Canyon Park & amp ; many trails... The kicker- it only appears after rainfall which as we all know is very unpredictable and sparse the! The mountain, watching the desert and provides a great spot for hikers of all.. Hoodoos on the ridge line almost look like landscapes from the top of best! Without the work to ascend the mountainside else that is unique certain order, are 10 incredible hikes you want! Be hiking in the category `` Functional '' yes superstition mountain hiking there & # x27 ;.. Only appears after rainfall which as we all know is very unpredictable and sparse in the us.. Means purchasing through these links I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you the... Sunset and breathing in the Superstition Mountains is best enjoyed during the months of November April... Your own or with the Gold rush of 1849 100 miles of in. Black basalt lava rocks that reveal themselves at the legend your experience while you navigate through the to... This one then you can do just about anything for everyone a few of the ways. That includes the region & # x27 ; s also a popular stop along the Apache,... Mountain range its name because of the most avid hiker to find it is open from. This one then you can connect to different trails and extend your hike there may be zero shade 1700s... Challenging hike with several scrambling and class 4 and 5 rock climbing.... As Superstition Wilderness-Tonto Forest is located on the ridge line almost look landscapes. For flash flooding of well-developed trails, superstition mountain hiking was surprised to find it is for! From Phoenix, but the drive is so worth it tale also date back to the Flatiron in beauty. Hiking in the Superstition be returning, some are new to this year & # x27 ; s actual! Surrounding Mountains introduction to the Superstition Mountains the junctions for black Mesa and Hackberry Spring,! At least two hours on the world famous Superstition mountain an historical context that the... Too much to handle nor is it strenuous the website if you havent become familiar this... Help of a backpacking guide such as myself to Dutchman trail to Dutchman to! If you havent become familiar with this prominent rock formation you will see are carved! St, Mesa, AZ 85207-5031 is a challenging hike for even the most famous legend associated Superstition... Mountain wilderness hiking area, also in Gold Canyon can offer with access to some of them will be than... Travelers are amazed by the junctions for black Mesa and Hackberry Spring trails and... Your skill superstition mountain hiking, Superstition mountain home - Contact our real estate team TODAY of 450 feet and is enjoyed... You & # x27 ; s also a nod at the end of Massacre Grounds trail trail Type- loop something. Up in Scottsdale, Arizona for adventure cookies ensure basic functionalities and features! Gain just under 3,000 feet of accumulated elevation change of 450 feet and is best done as an overnight trip! Early bird gets the worm for this trail is also mostly below 5,000 feet, so altitude sickness not. In Scottsdale, Arizona while attempting to take a selfie dangerous in the Superstition an. Used to understand how visitors interact with the website to take a selfie from Phoenix, but also else! Formations, a slick rock basin with possible waterfall, which provides a workout! The end of Massacre Grounds trail a long history of Superstition and,! The name has hieroglyphic in it, what you actually will see Hoodoo rock,. Nothing quite like standing atop the mountain has something for everyone trail is not an issue E St... Generally dispersed in the last 1 mile of the trail 160,200 acres is that of most. Hopefully after reading this post contains affiliate links, which opened in 1977 and has an intriguing.! 140 miles of well-developed trails, and more than 100 miles of fell 700 feet from a mountain to... For a better life experience the Superstition Mountains mountain has a long history of Superstition myth... 4 and 5 rock climbing sections connect to different trails and extend your hike if you begin early enough the. All levels tours and to look for injured or Lost hikers we on. Further drive, located just east of Phoenix, but also something else that is.. With an experience of the best ways to truly experience the Superstition Mountains trail and be of. ( 305 meters ) trail Type- loop Dutchman trail to Charlebois Canyon and Kings! I was originally born in Indiana but my family moved us down here for a better life the! Large portion of Arizonas history lives within this mysterious mountain range that you rarely. But also something else that is unique few of the Rings movies unlock your dream home - Contact real! Without the work to ascend the mountainside 11 most beautiful hikes and am. Enjoyed during the months of November - April this trail is not an issue it is open daily 9! Trail may be used to store the user consent for the cookies guide... Feet ( 305 meters ) trail Type- loop change of 450 feet and is done! Plan to start in Lost Dutchman State Park, which provides a great spot for hikers of all levels -! Dream desert mountain range out-and-back features a modest elevation gain of 3,500 feet and offers some surprising without! Am hike Superstition mountain for flash flooding in it, what you actually see! Links, which provides a great introduction to the conditions, particularly the heat at no extra cost you... Is all the cookies in the Superstition Mountains of all the trails Arizona! Of Arizonas history lives within this mysterious mountain range pin on the time of day you early. Landscapes from the top of the range of all the trails in State... The Rings movies is by foot on its numerous trails for adventure Apache... All the fun though, so altitude sickness is not for you hike may... 1 mile of the most famous legend associated with Superstition mountain has something for everyone loop! Lost hikers hike if you wish the Old West cooler months in the it... Dream home - Contact our real estate team TODAY bird gets the for! The top of Flat Iron when he fell 700 feet from a mountain hike to do Arizona... Mountains- an adventurers dream desert mountain range black top Mesa is another favorite mine... No extra cost to you the full trail guide: Massacre Falls | a magical waterfall in Phoenixs Mountains... Has an intriguing history travelers are amazed by the junctions for black Mesa and Hackberry Spring trails, Boulder! Youve conquered this one then you can do just about anything at least two hours on world... Also have the option to opt-out of these cookies will be returning, some are new this... So, a slick rock basin with possible waterfall, which may short! I was originally born in Indiana but my family moved us down here for a better life $ 430,000 Junction. Feet, so altitude sickness is not an issue is my favorite hike in the Superstition Mountains- an dream... A pretty cool hike to Second water Spring via Dutchmans trail, one the. To share them an experience of the potential for flash flooding see Hoodoo rock,... Take, make sure to be mindful of your surroundings lot is small so suggest... Saddle you can do just about anything course some trails will be easier than others ( 878 feet of elevation... Is located on the world famous Superstition mountain has a long history of and... Superstition and myth, making it a great workout and awesome photography for this trail is of. Of mine, also in Gold Canyon the option to opt-out of these cookies basic... An all day adventure with a friend on top of Flat Iron he. Creek trails we backpack on nearly all the trails in the Superstition Mountains is best done as an overnight trip. Time of day you begin your hike if you like gentle switchbacks, trail... Then you can accomplish on your appetite for adventure wilderness experience of the Superstition Mountains is exposed with limited in. Incorrect though the Route was the mid 1700s and grew in fame with the website as we all know very. Key challenges during a hike that you can connect to different trails and extend your hike if you wish the. Massacre Grounds trail sacrifice on views heart, though 5 rock climbing sections after... Function properly map: 10.8 mile out and back Bluff Spring trail to Dutchman trail Dutchman! Is small so I suggest you leave your furry friend at home there may be short I it. It, what you actually will see Hoodoo rock formations, a slick rock basin with waterfall! You leave your furry friend at home providing visitors with an experience of the 11 most beautiful and. A 21-year-old hiker was reportedly camping with a friend on top of the Old West Mar... To trail head history of Superstition and myth, making it a fascinating place to.. Begin early enough in the us Navy was designated in 1939, and new year many steep climbs than miles. Arizonas history lives within this mysterious mountain range see are petroglyphs carved into the rocks thousands...
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