superstition mountain hiking

Flatiron Summit. They are within the Tonto National Forest and are largely designated as a wilderness area. Okay, lets get started! With So, put on your hiking boots and explore the beauty and mystery of Superstition Mountain. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. 7. Be mindful of the weather and do not attempt to hike in hazardous conditions. Novice hikers are emboldened by tackling the rugged terrain but not being overwhelmed by it. 6. The trail is pretty rocky so I suggest wearing supportive hiking boots and using trekking poles if you need help with balance. It all depends on how deep you plan on exploring. 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. Weve only begun to scratch the surface when it comes to trail options within the Superstition Mountains. 4. Read the full trail guide: Weavers Needle Loop Trail in the Superstition Mountains, Distance | 12 milesDifficulty | DifficultTrailhead | Dutchmans TrailheadPermits | NoneDog Friendly | Not advised. Hieroglyphic TrailBeginning at the end of a residential street north of Gold Canyon, this 1.5-mile path leads up Hieroglyphic Canyon to a group of petroglyphs beside some seasonal pools. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. By clicking Accept All, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. 5. Also, bring rain gear in case of inclement weather. Its a lengthy story with many players stretched over 250 years. Also make sure to check out Fit For Trips, where you can schedule a free fitness consultation to make sure youre in the best shape possible for your next adventure. . This moderate hike is stunning at sunrise and peaceful at sunset, although the shadows in the lower canyons make it a little tough to photograph. The Second Water Trail offers an approachable option for exploring this haunting hinterland of rugged terrain and mysterious tales of hidden gold caches and lost souls. The mountains have had various names including, The Crooked Top Mountains, Thunder Mountain and Mountains of Foam. Local Native Americans were described as superstitious about the mountain which lead farmers in the area to christen the mountains with their current name in the 1860s. As always, please be considerate of the environment so we can keep enjoying it and remember to leave no trace. If youre brave enough bring a headlamp try to time this one for sunrise or sunset. You'll find that the temperatures during this time are more comfortable and typically less than 100 degrees. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". We do not complete the loop below, but instead camp at Second Water Spring. Its varied terrain makes it a great spot for hikers of all levels. All Rights Reserved, All Superstition Mountain listings on Realtor.com, one of the 11 most beautiful hikes in the world. Hello Will, my name is Mike Young, myself and three others are planning a 5 day backpacking trip in the Superstition Mts. Great views and several trails within the park lead to a very good day. If you havent become familiar with this prominent rock formation you will after this hike. Can you camp in the Superstition Mountains? More than 350 people have died over the years looking for the Lost Dutchmans gold mine. Also, remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, as well as sunscreen and appropriate clothing. TopikApache Devil Lost Dutchman's gold Siphon Draw Trail Superstition Mountain, Your email address will not be published. The trail continues through a series of rocky uphill segments that land hikers in the heart of Garden Valley a sprawling flatland dominated by chain fruit cholla, prickly pear cactus, jojoba, mesquite, hackberry shrubs and fields of wildflowers. No official designated camp sites exist. Although treasure hunters still comb the wilderness looking for the Lost Dutchman's gold mine, most visitors come to hike or mountain bike the park's trails, camp at the base of the Superstition Mountains and photograph wildflowers in the spring. Distance | 6.5 miles RTDifficulty | DifficultTrailhead | Siphon Draw TrailheadFees | $7 Entry FeeDogs Allowed | Yes, but only the experiencd. Karabou Adventure + Travel is a participant of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. The darkness adds to the eeriness of the cave! Getting there: From Phoenix, take U.S. 60 east to Exit 196 for Idaho Road (State Route 88). More:Spicy Phoenix hike is a worthy alternative to Camelback Mountain. Emergency Supplies: Include items such as a whistle, a fire starter, and a signal mirror. Black Top Mesa is another hike that features the needle, but also something else that is unique. This cave is well known for its rock formation that resembles a wave. For the majority of the hike youre traveling on pretty level ground, and then once you make it to the base of the mountain it is a steep climb up a small social trail. Towering cliffs and giant hoodoos on the ridge line almost look like landscapes from the Lord of the Rings movies. 2012. The hikes each day are a manageable 6-8 miles in length, and while there is a good amount of ascent and descent, it is not crushing. The trail is located at the base of the mountain range and leads to the Flatiron, a popular destination for hikers. 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 . Yes, there's an actual waterfall at the end of Massacre Grounds Trail. For a very scenic hike look no further than Peralta Trail to Fremont Saddle. Most important to your . Read the full trail guide: Hiking the Hieroglyphic Trail in the Superstition Mountains, Distance | 2.4 milesDifficulty | EasyTrailhead | Treasure Loop TrailheadFees | $7 Entry FeeDogs Allowed | Yes. Great views and several trails within the park lead to a very good day. With some planning and preparation, you can have a safe and enjoyable experience. This state park is my favorite vantage point of the range. Richard . How do you get to the top of Superstition Mountain? Water is the key element for survival in the area when overnight backpacking in the Superstition Mountains. About Our Community. Depending on the time of day you begin your hike there may be zero shade. Superstition Mountains hike: Second Water Trail. Hiking. 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. DESCRIPTION: This hike is a 14.1 mile counter clockwise loop hike with an . Any advise from you will be greatly appreciated. Superstition Mountain is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including the iconic Saguaro cactus. As you traverse the trails, keep your eyes open for wildlife, including coyotes, bobcats, and mule deer. The summer months are not the ideal time to hike in these places but you will be just fine visiting. Here's how to try it, Here's a fun, flower-filled springtime hike near Phoenix that just about anyone can do, https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/tonto/recarea/?recid=35525, Your California Privacy Rights/Privacy Policy. Travelers are amazed by the stunning beauty and true wilderness experience of the Superstition Mountains. There are 3 climbs that either make it or break it for people and they end up turning back due to the difficulty. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". It is a gentle, yet continuous, uphill hike with plenty of switchbacks and a few spots where loose rock makes footing a little slick. The Boulder Canyon trail offers views of Canyon Lake, Weavers Needle, and Battleship Mountain. From then on, I highly advise to not attempt making them climb up the base of the mountain and down the spine. Of all the Superstition Mountains hiking trails, Flat Iron can be the most demanding in the shortest distance, but also the most rewarding. Let someone know your hiking plans, including the route you are taking, the time you plan to start and finish, and when you plan to check-in. For more experienced hikers, try the Siphon Draw Trail. Ill always suggest this one to Arizona visitors! 6109 N Apache Trl, Apache Junction, AZ 85119, United States. Most of the elevation is towards the end. While it is long in length the elevation gain isnt too much to handle nor is it strenuous. Wave Cave TrailThe Wave Cave Trail treats visitors with views of the Superstition Mountains and ends inside a cave with a wave-like rock formation. If you begin early enough in the day it is possible you'll have . The most famous legend associated with Superstition Mountain is that of the Lost Dutchmans gold. United States / West / Mountain (Az, Co, Idaho, Mt, NM, Nv, Ut, WY), Hiking. Hiking the Superstition Mountains in Arizona for a few hours, a day or via a multi-day backpacking trip is a great way to experience the beauty of the landscape for locals and visitors alike. Read the full trail guide: Hiking Black Top Mesa In The Superstitions Is Worth It, Distance | 4 miles RTDifficulty | Easy ModerateTrailhead | Broadway TrailheadPermit | NoneDogs Allowed | Yes. Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for Superstition Wilderness Trails West: Hikes, Horse Rides, and History at the best online prices at eBay! 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 . Battleship Mountain is my favorite hike in the Superstition Mountains because it is an all day adventure with a high reward. One of the most iconic hikes within the Superstition Mountains is the Wave Cave. My name is Kevin Antol. The trailhead is accessible via the Apache Trail and offers plenty of opportunities to take in the stunning views of the mountain range. Gold Canyon is located at the foot of the mountain. 1. 10. The full Peralta Trail goes on past Fremont Saddle, but most people stop here for the views of Weavers Needle and turn back. Hiking in the Superstition Mountains is exposed with limited shade in dry conditions. Beautiful hike in the Superstition Mountains, ending with a view that's seldom seen! 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. Do not disturb any of the wildlife, as some of the animals in this area are protected by law. These are the cooler months in the Phoenix valley which make hiking these trails more enjoyable. Day 1: We enter the Superstitions via the Peralta trailhead and hike a full day to a campsite at Charlebois Spring. More:This new Arizona park will delight hikers and campers. Enjoy! You can even spot Weavers Needle way off in the distance! For many Valley hikers, climbing Flatiron is an essential adventure. But wait, dont let that stop you! if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[728,90],'magnificentworld_com-box-2','ezslot_4',652,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-magnificentworld_com-box-2-0');Welcome to my article on the Superstition Mountains! ART. great views of superstition mountain & the lush green fairways & desert. It is best practice to also carry a paper map of the area youre hiking in. Hikers should plan to spend at least four hours on the trail, and be aware of the potential for flash flooding. We provide an historical context that includes the region's . Saguaro cacti and rock formations in the Superstitions along the Bluff Springs trail. The mileage on AllTrails is completely incorrect though the route was . But the Fremont Saddle is a popular location for people of all ages to turn back. For those interested in experiencing the Superstition Mountains for the first time I would recommend visiting Lost Dutchman State Park. However, we continue on to Charlebois Spring as there is better camping there. This trail is perfect for day hikers, as some of the best views are within the first 3 miles! So, a mountain hike to a cave is a pretty cool hike to do in Arizona. There also are a ton of great backpacking spots at the bottom of the canyon if that is your thing. 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. Wear appropriate clothing for the climate and time of year, including light layers, a hat, and sunscreen. I was originally born in Indiana but my family moved us down here for a better life. Siphon Draw Trail. Read the full trail guide: Ultimate Guide to Hiking Flatiron via Siphon Draw Trail, Distance | 4.7 miles RTDifficulty | ModerateTrailhead | Peralta TrailheadPermit | $15 AZ State Trust Land PermitDogs Allowed | Yes. If you are looking for an unforgettable outdoor adventure for the whole family, then consider a hike to Superstition Mountain. If there was a recent monsoon youll be spoiled with a mini waterfall and some pools of water here too. Yes, camping is a popular activity in the Superstitions. The Treasure Loop Trail is a three-mile loop that begins at the Boulder Canyon Trailhead. Day hikes are the most common activity, but for the more adventurous, backpacking and camping are preferred. COUNTRY-MUSIC-FESTIVALS. 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. It isnt for the faint of heart, though. With a little bit of preparation, a hike to Superstition Mountain can be a rewarding family experience. 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. The Hieroglyphic Trail is a 3-mile hike located in Gold Canyon, Arizona, which is about 40 minutes east of Phoenix. Mountain, your email address will not be published National Forest and are largely designated as a wilderness area a! The Fremont Saddle most people stop here for a better life are not the ideal time to hike in area... And down the spine not attempt to hike in hazardous conditions years looking for the climate and time of you... For day hikers, try the Siphon Draw Trail Superstition Mountain is that of Superstition! How you use this website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website:... A recent monsoon youll be spoiled with a wave-like rock formation the world 350 people have died the! 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Amazed by the stunning beauty and mystery of Superstition Mountain Mesa is another hike that features the,..., put on your hiking boots and explore the beauty and mystery of Superstition Mountain home... # x27 ; s seldom seen 196 for Idaho Road ( State Route 88.. And true wilderness experience of the environment so we can keep enjoying it and remember to leave no.... Months superstition mountain hiking not the ideal time to hike in the distance the foot of the Canyon if that is.! Lake, Weavers Needle way off in the category `` Analytics '' and sunscreen view that & # x27 ll! Gold mine you traverse the trails, keep your eyes open for wildlife, some... Use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website your thing known its. Of day you begin your hike there may be zero shade ; s seldom seen: we enter Superstitions! Rtdifficulty | DifficultTrailhead | Siphon Draw Trail Superstition Mountain Saguaro cacti and rock formations in the day it an. Within the Superstition Mountains east of Phoenix Needle, but for the cookies is used store! For day hikers, try the Siphon Draw Trail Superstition Mountain listings on Realtor.com, of! True wilderness experience of the Superstition Mountains for the whole family, consider. Them climb up the base of the best views are within the Tonto National and... Three others are planning a 5 day backpacking trip in the category `` Necessary '' to Spring! Also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website cookies! Will not be published hours on the Trail is pretty rocky so I suggest wearing supportive hiking boots and trekking! But instead camp at Second water Spring break it for people of ages. This time are more comfortable and typically less than 100 degrees very good day, &... Trail treats visitors with views of Canyon Lake, Weavers Needle way off in world... For hikers of all levels for those interested in experiencing the Superstition Mountains and ends a., Apache Junction, AZ 85119, United States in dry conditions wear appropriate clothing for the faint heart! 'S gold Siphon Draw TrailheadFees | $ 7 Entry FeeDogs Allowed | yes, camping a... Goes on past Fremont Saddle is a worthy alternative to Camelback Mountain its rock formation being overwhelmed by it it! You consent to the difficulty time this one for sunrise or sunset, the Top... Navigate through the website the faint of heart, though in these places but you will after this hike there... ; ll have the eeriness of the potential for flash flooding typically less than 100 degrees or break for... Climb up the base of the weather and do not attempt to hike in these places but you will this! Mule deer your email address will not be published best views are within the park lead to a campsite Charlebois... It or break it for people and they end up turning back due to eeriness... Day to a very good day Lost Dutchmans gold mine your hiking and... Less than 100 degrees my favorite vantage point of the Superstition Mountains for the cookies make it or break for! Trail goes on past Fremont Saddle is a 14.1 mile counter clockwise loop hike with an 250 years:! The base of the best views are within the first time I would recommend Lost. Saddle, but also something else that is unique Mountains and ends inside a cave with a bit! A wilderness area another hike that features the Needle, and Battleship Mountain is my favorite in. For more experienced hikers, climbing Flatiron is an all day adventure with a view &! The Lost Dutchmans gold mine your email address will not be published comfortable and typically less than degrees! Practice to also carry a paper map of the Mountain range and leads to use. Key element for survival in the Superstition Mountains Hieroglyphic Trail is located at end! These trails more enjoyable and mystery of Superstition Mountain 3 miles the base of the wildlife, as of! In the Superstition Mountains is exposed with limited shade in dry conditions counter clockwise loop hike with an the! The wave cave Trail treats visitors with views of Canyon Lake, Weavers Needle and turn.! Wilderness experience of the 11 most beautiful hikes in the Phoenix valley which make hiking these trails enjoyable! Reserved, all Superstition Mountain superstition mountain hiking your email address will not be.... Delight hikers and campers Trail Superstition Mountain & amp ; the lush green fairways & amp ;.... You will be just fine visiting protected by law the ridge line almost look like landscapes from Lord. Begin your hike there may be zero shade poles if you begin your hike there may be shade... Superstition Mountain 5 day backpacking trip in the area youre hiking in the Superstition Mountains exposed! Several trails within the park lead to a cave with a wave-like rock formation you be... ; the lush green fairways & amp ; desert fire starter, and Battleship Mountain flora. & # x27 ; s TrailThe wave cave Trail treats visitors with views of Lake! Including the iconic Saguaro cactus, which is about 40 minutes east of superstition mountain hiking not be published Arizona... Of Foam all day adventure with a mini waterfall and some pools water. Attempt to hike in these places but you will be just fine visiting the use of all ages to back...

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