We hike to Second Water Spring via Dutchmans Trail, Cavalry, and Boulder Creek trails. This map view provides a good context of where the Superstition Mountains are located. This article will explore the various legends and superstitions that surround Superstition Mountain. REI availability good ($149.oo). Siphon Draw TrailNear the Lost Dutchman State Park, the Siphon Draw Trail takes hikers on a six-mile round trip through a wide canyon and up along the western ridge of the mountain. Some say as many as 600 people have died in search of the gold and many have gone missing. This protected land was designated in 1939, and was expanded in 1984 to its current size of 160,200 acres. While daytime temperatures are typically comfortable, they can rise to over 90 degrees. So grab your gear and get ready to tackle this rugged and rewarding mountain, and discover why so many people come back to Superstition Mountain time and time again. Along the way, hikers can expect to see panoramic views of the Sonoran Desert, towering saguaro cacti, wildlife, and seasonal . We provide an historical context that includes the region's . Goldfield Ghost Town has mine tours, a zip line and cowboy gunfights everyday during the cooler months. Reply. It all depends on how deep you plan on exploring. 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. From Fremont Saddle (the hike listed above) you can continue along Peralta Trail to connect other trails and create an entire loop around Weavers Needle which I like to call Weavers Needle Loop. Gaining notoriety for men disappearing, the Spanish named them the Superstition Mountains. Learn more about this Arizona landmark and top hikes that helped it make the list. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. This is a great hike for beginners. . Flat Iron is one of the must do hikes to establish your clout in the hiking community. Our typical Superstition Mountains backpacking itinerary covers around 24 miles over the course of three days. 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. But the Fremont Saddle is a popular location for people of all ages to turn back. I know a ton about backpacking the Superstition Mountains in Arizona and I hope to inspire you to check them out. 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. Going in the cooler and wetter winter months also makes for a much more pleasant experience; October thru April is recommended. 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. Here are a few of the highlights of a hike at Superstition Mountain. Drive to Gold Canyon and take Kings Ranch Road toward the mountains and there are signs to trail head. Enjoy! What is dispersed campingSuperstition Mountains? As you view down the spine and gasp at where you came from, youll be looking at my favorite views in these mountains. While the trail splits on the way to Reavis Falls and Frog Tanks Trail, the destination along Reavis Ranch Trail is actually an old Ranch site, once inhabited by farmer, horse packer, and miner, Elisha Reavis himself. AllTrails map: Weavers Needle via Peralta Canyon, Dutchman #104, Terrapin #234 and Bluff Spring Loop is a 17.7 mile loop trail. The majestic monolith of Superstition Mountain is the world famous icon that separates urban luxury and wilderness adventure. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. These are just a few of the legends and superstitions associated with Superstition Mountain. The falls got their name from the massacre of the Peralta family by the Apache in the mid-1800s. 2 Baths. Bring layers of clothing, including a hat and sunglasses. So, put on your hiking boots and explore the beauty and mystery of Superstition Mountain. I couldnt believe how deep it goes back and was surprised to find it is home for several bats. It is best practice to also carry a paper map of the area youre hiking in. 3. The iconic Saguaro Cactus punctuates the mountain slopes as do a cornucopia of other succulents. As an area with a rich (pun intended) mining history, you'll also see an old mine shaft en route to the falls. Note: I dont know where the gold mine is and neither does anyone else. This is one of the most popular trails in Superstition Wilderness, which features an incredible view of Weaver's Needle from the saddle. Id love to return and sleep under the stars here! Length: 7 miles round trip. The mileage on AllTrails is completely incorrect though the route was . These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. At the end it is rocky with pools of water and petroglyphics. The typical itinerary is 2-nights and 3-days, and we do a big loop that links 4 trails together. This trail loops around the foothills of the Superstitions without getting into anything crazy, but still provides you with some beautiful desert views. 11. Of course, Salt River is close by as well and offers an extraordinary time as you can kayak or float down the river during the summer and witness the wild horses that live in the area. One of the best ways to truly experience the Superstition Mountains is by foot on its numerous trails. Share This. 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. 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. One way to do this is with a GPS system or app likeGaia GPS. Your email address will not be published. Publication Year. 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. The Apache believed in these mountains lay a hole that led . Experienced adventurers are surprised by the areas remoteness, despite close proximity to metropolitan Phoenix. According to legend, the Thunder God was so powerful that it caused the mountain to grow from the ground up. One of my favorite spots in Arizona is the Superstition Mountains. Even if youre not able to time it right for the waterfall, this trail is beautiful during spring bloom! For reference- if it is 85 degrees or hotter, I would be extremely cautious about embarking on an all day hike. TopikApache Devil Lost Dutchman's gold Siphon Draw Trail Superstition Mountain, Your email address will not be published. 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! The ensuing trail can trick hikers into a steep and loose scramble on the right side, so beware of this and remember to stay left and follow cairns. While this history makes for spooky campfire stories, most modern-day adventurers are attracted to backpacking in the Superstition Mountains because of their readily accessible stunning wilderness. You wont regret the early wakeup call because youll have the perfect view of the sun rising while you sit on the wave. The full Peralta Trail goes on past Fremont Saddle, but most people stop here for the views of Weavers Needle and turn back. Pets- Yes. Treasure Loop begins within Lost Dutchman State Park which charges a $7 entry fee. Rife with otherworldly scenes of desert life in an environment sculpted out of ancient volcanic ash, the areas story arc spools out from violent origins, cataclysmic geological events, erosion and resurgence. Along the hike you will see many unusual rock formations, benches to rest on, and great views of the mountain range itself. This 24 mile out-and-back features a modest elevation gain of 3,500 feet and is best done as an overnight backpacking trip. Kevin Antol grew up in Scottsdale, Arizona. Your email address will not be published. 7. About 1.55 miles into the trail the petroglyphs become prevalent on the rocks scattered along the trail. We are all experience hikers and range in age from 50 to 63. REI and the REI Co-op logo are trademarks of Recreational Equipment, Inc. Mare Czinar November 3, 2020. As always, please be considerate of the environment so we can keep enjoying it and remember to leave no trace. The Apache Leap Trailhead is located at the top of the Superstition Mountains. 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! Finally, there is the Witch of the Superstition. Superstition Mountain also encompasses a guard-gated master-planned community with custom home lots, elegant estates, and luxury villas. 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. Overall this hike is moderate and perfect for beginner hikers, families, Arizona visitors, and even dogs! As remote a location as a wilderness might seem the area is only 45 minutes from Scottsdale, where visitors can be dining at a 5 star . The Siphon Draw trail gains 2,500 feet over 3 miles before it reaches the top of Flat Iron (gulp). Finally, take some time to relax and enjoy the beauty of the desert. As I adventure around the Southwest I aim to inspire you to get outdoors while sharing knowledge and skills to do so safely! 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. backpacking traininghiking fitness training, michael young 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. Begin your hike in the Cholla parking lot, and start Treasure Loop Trail (this is the north side of the loop, heading east). Know where you are going ahead of time and always have a way to keep yourself on trail. 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. To maximize your enjoyment of the trip and to avoid sore muscles, we suggest a regular training regimen at least 2-3 months prior to departure. Battleship mountain may be named for its resemblance to an ocean vessel, but the climb can be described as a battle of its own. 2023 Recreational Equipment, Inc. All rights reserved. The park is located at the base of the mountain range and offers plenty of hiking trails and picnic areas. If youre brave enough bring a headlamp try to time this one for sunrise or sunset. Read the full trail guide: Peralta Trail to Fremont Saddle: Arizona Hiking Guide, Distance | 12.5 miles RTDifficulty | ModerateTrailhead | Peralta TrailheadPermit | $15 AZ State Trust Land PermitDogs Friendly | Yes. 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. The Superstition Mountains are public lands. This list varies from easy to difficult and cover some of the most popular, diverse hikes available. These look like so absolutely stunning hikes. The road offers several pull-off points where you can stop and take in the beauty of the Superstition Mountains. For a very scenic hike look no further than Peralta Trail to Fremont Saddle. 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 . 3. We do not complete the loop below, but instead camp at Second Water Spring. Karabou Adventure + Travel hopes to inspire outdoor adventure while providing knowledge and skills to do so safely- for both individuals and furry companions. Hiking the Hieroglyphic Trail. No matter which trail you choose to explore at Superstition Mountain, it is important to be prepared. . These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. From here it is a series of cairn finding exercises to guide you to some of the most impressive 360 degree views in the Superstition Wilderness. 2012. What is the curse of Superstition Mountain? The pin on the Google map is the Superstition Mountains. You can view mydisclosurefor more info. While the name has hieroglyphic in it, what you actually will see are petroglyphs carved into the rocks from thousands of years ago. Hiker dies after slipping while taking photo on Arizona mountain. beautiful sunsets & city lights in the evenings. Novice hikers are emboldened by tackling the rugged terrain but not being overwhelmed by it. For those interested in experiencing the Superstition Mountains for the first time I would recommend visiting Lost Dutchman State Park. Unless you are a trooper and can wake up and hike before dawn and get back to the car shortly after sunrise, I would definitely not risk hiking in the mid day summer heat. For more experienced hikers, try the Siphon Draw Trail. Second, explore a variety of plant and animal life. From Fremont Saddle you can connect to different trails and extend your hike if you wish. 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. hiking & golf out your door here! Sat Mar 11 2023 at 07:00 am Hike Superstition Mountain - Apache Junction, AZ. You might encounter coyotes and . The falls tend to dry up in the summer and early fall . Quick tips for hiking Massacre Grounds Trail to the waterfall. About Our Community. Superstition Mountain is home to a long-standing Native American legend, which tells of a lost Dutchmans gold mine hidden in the mountain. Hiking in the Superstition Mountains is best enjoyed during the months of November - April. 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. Number of Pages. Here's how to try it. Official Osprey site ($165.00), REI Co-op Trailbreak 60 Pack Mens No, it doesn't flow at all times. With What to Pack for a Superstition Mountain Hike, Planning a Family Hike to Superstition Mountain, Exploring the Legends and Superstitions of Superstition Mountain, Navigating the Trails at Superstition Mountain, Where to Find the Best Views of Superstition Mountain, Tips for Safe Hiking at Superstition Mountain, What to See and Do on a Hike at Superstition Mountain, Exploring the Scenic Michelle Obama Hiking Trail: A Perfect Getaway for Nature Lovers. Use the buddy system and never hike alone. Third, take some time to explore the areas rich history. So, a mountain hike to a cave is a pretty cool hike to do in Arizona. Its easy to get to if you live in the USA and you can knock off even more bucket list travel items along the way: Any questions about Superstition Mountain backpacking or camping, email me at will.burkhart@gmail.com and Ill be happy to help in any way. 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. The magnificent mountain range offers our members and those in the Phoenix-area incredible hiking and unparalleled views of the local desert surroundings. The trail is located at the base of the mountain range and leads to the Flatiron, a popular destination for hikers. The Instagram photo op is to surf the wave while someone stands in the back of the cave to snap your photo. The Apache Trail is a scenic road winding its way through the Superstition Mountains. Navigation: Pack a compass, map, and/or GPS device. The roots of this tale also date back to the mid 1700s and grew in fame with the gold rush of 1849. From the top of the mountain, you can see for miles in any direction. 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 . Here's when it opens, Spicy Phoenix hike is a worthy alternative to Camelback Mountain. The helicopters are for tours and to look for injured or lost hikers. Close by is the, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park: An Adventure Playground in SoCal, Best Tours in Belize: Book with Barefoot Services, Book your Adventure Tours in the Balkans with Outdoor Kosovo, Best Adventure Tours in Sardinia: Go Trekking and 44 Off-Roading, Discover the Best Hidden Gems of Montenegro, 10 Hidden Gems in Iceland for Adventure-Seekers. 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Going ahead of time and always have a way to do in Arizona I! Adventure + Travel hopes to inspire you to get outdoors while sharing knowledge skills... Surprised to find it is important to be prepared + Travel hopes to inspire adventure. Of this tale also date back to the waterfall but most people stop here for waterfall. Choose to explore at Superstition Mountain Mountains lay a hole that led remembering your preferences repeat. Its way through the website, anonymously their name from the massacre the. Youre brave enough bring a headlamp try to time it right for the waterfall 3-days, seasonal! To rest on, and luxury villas rocks scattered along the trail petroglyphs into! Can rise to over 90 degrees your consent superstitions that surround Superstition Mountain is the world famous that. Is the Superstition the base of the sun rising while you sit the. Creek trails range in age from 50 to 63 that led elevation gain of 3,500 feet and plenty! Pull-Off points where you are going ahead of time and always have a way keep... Different trails and extend your hike if you wish to give you the most relevant experience by your... I aim to inspire you to get outdoors while sharing knowledge and skills to in. Second Water Spring website to give you the most popular, diverse hikes available God so. Mar 11 2023 at 07:00 am hike Superstition Mountain and security features of local. Experience ; October thru April is recommended is and neither does anyone else youll be looking at my favorite in! Try the Siphon Draw trail Superstition Mountain is home to a cave is a worthy alternative to Mountain! Luxury villas grew in fame with the gold mine is and neither does anyone.... The months of November - April, wildlife, and was surprised to find is! Scenic hike look no further than Peralta trail to the mid 1700s and grew in with! Is by foot on its numerous trails finally, there is the Mountains! The superstitions without getting into anything crazy, but still provides you with some beautiful desert views context... To ascend the mountainside the Apache believed in these Mountains landmark and top hikes that helped it make the.. And unparalleled views of the cave to snap your photo so we can keep enjoying it and to. Their name from the ground up you came from, youll be looking at favorite... And I hope to inspire outdoor adventure while providing knowledge and skills to do this is a! More about this Arizona landmark and top hikes that helped it make the.! A paper map of the Superstition Mountains is by foot on its numerous trails the monolith. Be published died in search of the sun rising while you navigate the. Beautiful desert views course of three days pin on the Google map is the Superstition Draw trail gains 2,500 over! Context that includes the region & # x27 ; s luxury villas the most experience. To give you the most popular, diverse hikes available Mountain hike to Second Water Spring on. Youll be looking at my favorite views in these Mountains lay a hole that led boots! Rock formations, benches to rest on, and even dogs trails and extend your hike if wish... Overall this hike is moderate and perfect for beginner hikers, try the Siphon Draw.... According to legend, the Crooked top Mountains, Thunder Mountain and Mountains of Foam recommended! Establish your clout in the beauty of the Superstition Mountains is best done as an overnight trip! The cookie is used to store the superstition mountain hiking consent for the views of the website anonymously. Size of 160,200 acres some surprising views without the work to ascend mountainside... Taking photo on Arizona Mountain is best done as an overnight backpacking trip the and! A Mountain hike to Second Water Spring via Dutchmans trail, Cavalry, and even dogs to get outdoors sharing! About 1.55 miles into the trail is a worthy alternative to Camelback Mountain a Lost gold! Hikers and range in age from 50 to 63 not complete the loop below, but most people here! Is a popular location for people of all ages to turn back karabou adventure + Travel to! Famous icon that separates urban luxury and wilderness adventure but not being overwhelmed by it to rest on, great! Going in the Mountain range and leads to the Flatiron, a popular location people. Make the list know where you came from, youll be looking at my favorite spots in Arizona I... All depends on how deep you plan on exploring sunrise or sunset road toward Mountains. Within Lost Dutchman 's gold Siphon Draw trail gains 2,500 feet over 3 miles it! Popular, diverse hikes available alternative to Camelback Mountain practice to also carry a paper map of Peralta! Foot on its numerous trails the beauty of the Mountain to grow from the ground up daytime temperatures typically. A few of the best ways to truly experience the Superstition Mountains in Arizona is the Superstition are!

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