This 24 mile out-and-back features a modest elevation gain of 3,500 feet and is best done as an overnight backpacking trip. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". Broadway Cave features a massive entrance that opens up to the valley beyond. Supposedly the German immigrant Jacob Waltz reveled the location of a lost treasure to be in the Superstition Mountains on his deathbed in 1891 and people have been on the search ever since. Read the full trail guide: Local Guide To Wave Cave- The Superstitions Hidden Gem, Distance | 3.1 milesDifficulty | Easy ModerateTrailhead | Hieroglyphic TrailheadPermit | NoneDog Friendly | Yes. Begin your hike in the Cholla parking lot, and start Treasure Loop Trail (this is the north side of the loop, heading east). The Superstitions are dangerous in the sense that people are often unprepared and not acclimatized to the conditions, particularly the heat. Hi there! 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 Siphon Draw trail gains 2,500 feet over 3 miles before it reaches the top of Flat Iron (gulp). The backdrop of our golf course communities in Arizona was recently recognized asone of the 11 most beautiful hikes in the worldby Architectural Digest. My name is Will Burkhart and Im the owner of Badass Adventures. great views of superstition mountain & the lush green fairways & desert. Details: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/tonto/recarea/?recid=35525. Experts believe the Superstition Mountains were formed more than 18 million years ago by volcanic activity. Saguaro cacti and rock formations in the Superstitions along the Bluff Springs trail. If you begin early enough in the day it is possible you'll have . Perhaps, someday I will get to visit them also. At the end it is rocky with pools of water and petroglyphics. First, take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding Sonoran Desert. How do you get to the top of Superstition Mountain? Here are some of the best places to get a glimpse of Superstition Mountain. 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. 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. The 21-year-old hiker was reportedly camping with a friend on top of Flat Iron when he fell. You'll find that the temperatures during this time are more comfortable and typically less than 100 degrees. This list varies from easy to difficult and cover some of the most popular, diverse hikes available. Trademarks and brands are the property of their respective owners. But in this post were going to highlight 10 of the best Superstition Mountain hikes as well as important tips for a safe adventure. Okay, lets get started! 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. Can you camp in the Superstition Mountains? It is not suggested to hike during the summer unless it is a short trail that you can begin at 4:30 a.m. and get done before late morning. This weekend long free, self-guided tour is like our Fall Studio Tour, which has become an anticipated event for art lovers since it began in . Distance | 6.5 miles RTDifficulty | DifficultTrailhead | Siphon Draw TrailheadFees | $7 Entry FeeDogs Allowed | Yes, but only the experiencd. The hike starts out easy but there is a steep incline closer to the summit at the cave. For those interested in experiencing the Superstition Mountains for the first time I would recommend visiting Lost Dutchman State Park. Superstition Mountain Museum is located in an area full of legend, history and intrigue. 1,892 Sq. With its dramatic landscape, beautiful wildflowers, and abundant wildlife, Superstition Mountain is truly an amazing place to explore. Length: 4.6 mi Est. It is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. except on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year. This cave is well known for its rock formation that resembles a wave. The road offers several pull-off points where you can stop and take in the beauty of the Superstition Mountains. Check out our review of the 5 best women's day packs of 2018. An easy to moderate day hike, Treasure Loop is a must-do for all outdoor . If youre looking for more of a easy-moderate hike and dont want to scramble all the way up to Flatiron, you have the option to hike to the Siphon Draw and turning back. Camping is generally dispersed in the vicinity of flowing springs. Whichever trail you decide to take, make sure to be mindful of your surroundings. It is said that her curse still affects the people of the area, causing bad luck and misfortune. If youre looking for a base camp to stay at, reserve your camping spot ahead of time here. Hikers should plan to spend at least four hours on the trail, and be aware of the potential for flash flooding. Distance | 3.0 milesDifficulty | ModerateTrailhead | Carney Springs TrailheadPermit | $15 AZ State Trust Land PermitDog Friendly | Yes. Superstition Mountain Museum. There is nothing quite like standing atop the mountain, watching the desert sunset and breathing in the beauty of the Sonoran Desert. 2. All Rights Reserved. Allow me to introduce you to the Superstition Mountains- an adventurers dream desert mountain range. 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. Great views and several trails within the park lead to a very good day. 2009-2022 Fit For Trips . Hikers should plan to spend at least two hours on the trail and be aware of the potential for flash flooding. 3 Beds. There are a few trails for you to explore, each providing a unique set of sights and sounds. . Saguaro Cactus punctuate the Superstitions landscape. There is a Superstition Mountain Museum at 4087 N. Apache Trail, Highway 88 in Apache Junction. What is dispersed campingSuperstition Mountains? You cant choose wrong! This state park is my favorite vantage point of the range. Superstition Mountain is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including the iconic Saguaro cactus. May 12, 2014. With some planning and preparation, you can have a safe and enjoyable experience. Sat Mar 11 2023 at 07:00 am Hike Superstition Mountain - Apache Junction, AZ. Wear appropriate clothing for the climate and time of year, including light layers, a hat, and sunscreen. Other than that there are tons of things to see in and around the Superstition Mountains area. It is all a wilderness area with no vehicular access. 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 . Click on it to get it for yourself! Only let them attempt it if they are experienced, in good shape, and you fully believe in their climbing abilities. 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. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors. The pin on the Google map is the Superstition Mountains. Pets- Yes. Myths and legends run wild in the Superstition Mountains of Arizona. If youre brave enough bring a headlamp try to time this one for sunrise or sunset. They are within the Tonto National Forest and are largely designated as a wilderness area. The Siphon Draw Trail is one of the most popular trails in the Superstition Mountains. The grand scale super-volcano activity was like whats incubating beneath Yellowstone National Park right now. Lost Dutchman State Park is a great spot for enjoying views of the Superstition Mountains. Early bird gets the worm for this trail is packed on weekends. 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. One of the best ways to truly experience the Superstition Mountains is by foot on its numerous trails. Depending on the season, you'll see not only gorgeous desert vegetation but also wildlife. 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" Official Osprey site ($165.00), Osprey Renn 65 Pack Womens In fact, many people choose this to be their first exposure to backpacking in the Superstition Mountains due to the well-marked and maintained trail. Fires, rock falls, flood displacements and seasonal transitions are like costume changes in a long-running show with ear worm tunes that hijack the mind but somehow never get old. The Superstitions hold some of the most beautiful hikes and I am happy to share them. Then you can explore the trails right from your campsite. 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. 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. Length: 7 miles round trip. Once you get to the base of the main cliffs, and the trail starts to veer to the right, this is where you branch off. The Siphon Draw itself is just about a mile in and can be extremely slick, especially during wet conditions. Wow! Day hikes are the most common activity, but for the more adventurous, backpacking and camping are preferred. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Ringed by mesas, mountain ranges and bizarre pillars and piles of solidified ash or welded tuff, the yawning basins have settled into a quiet old age marked by a slow-motion epoch of falling apart. Weve only begun to scratch the surface when it comes to trail options within the Superstition Mountains. The mountains are located less than an hour's drive away from both Phoenix and Scottsdale. hiking & golf out your door here! While daytime temperatures are typically comfortable, they can rise to over 90 degrees. You can also take a guided tour of the area and learn about the history and geology of the Superstition Mountains. The magnificent mountain range offers our members and those in the Phoenix-area incredible hiking and unparalleled views of the local desert surroundings. Tagged under: This once botanically lush plateau took a major wildfire hit, but many survivor specimens and green sprouts pushing out from deadwood hint at recovery. Whether youre an experienced hiker or just looking for a weekend getaway, Superstition Mountain offers something for everyone. First Water Trailhead, Hiking Black Top Mesa In The Superstitions Is Worth It, How to find Broadway Cave in the Superstition Mountains, AZ, Massacre Falls | A magical waterfall in Phoenixs Superstition Mountains, 10 Amazing Superstition Mountains Hikes for your Bucket List. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Wake up to DRAMATIC views of the Superstition & the Goldfield mountains SUPERIOR LOCATION: Just 5 minutes from the 202 freeway & numerous shopping opportunities. The 1,599 sq. Any advise from you will be greatly appreciated. Hiking The Superstition Wilderness. Here are a few of the highlights of a hike at Superstition Mountain. As always, please be considerate of the environment so we can keep enjoying it and remember to leave no trace. It also means that you will rarely have access to water sources or shade. With its stunning views, rich history, and abundant wildlife, its an ideal destination for hikers of all ages. As soon as you enter the mountains from any point whether its via Lost Dutchman State Park, Canyon Lake or the Gold Canyon area you will truly feel like you are in another world! The Hieroglyphic Trail is a 3-mile hike located in Gold Canyon, Arizona, which is about 40 minutes east of Phoenix. Best to go after heavy rain or snowfall, especially in winter or spring; To . Our focus is on providing visitors with an experience of the Old West. 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. The Hieroglyphic Trail is a four-mile loop that begins at the Peralta Trailhead. Plan to start in Lost Dutchman State Park in Apache Junction . Located in the Tonto National Forest, the Wave Cave Trail is a moderate hike in the Superstition Mountains. With a little bit of preparation, a hike to Superstition Mountain can be a rewarding family experience. More:Spicy Phoenix hike is a worthy alternative to Camelback Mountain. You wont regret the early wakeup call because youll have the perfect view of the sun rising while you sit on the wave. The Boulder Canyon trail offers views of Canyon Lake, Weavers Needle, and Battleship Mountain. Begin your hikes early to beat the crowds, or strategize and arrive for a sunset hike if the trail permits. The iconic Saguaro Cactus punctuates the mountain slopes as do a cornucopia of other succulents. We reveal who found the mine and the legend behind it over the campfire each night. Is there gold in the Superstition Mountains? 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 Apache Leap Trailhead is located at the top of the Superstition Mountains. vista del corazon is a gated, custom golf community with a 100 home sites, embraced by the championship dinosaur mountain golf course, voted as one of the top 10 best golf courses in the . View more property details, sales history and Zestimate data on Zillow. First Water Trailhead, Distance | 11.5 milesDifficulty | ModerateTrailhead | First Water TrailheadPermits | NoneDog Friendly | Yes. Flatiron is a popular day hike in the Superstitions. Reply. Now it is time to pick a trail. Since the Superstition Mountains are in the Sonoran Desert, finding water is one of the key challenges during a hike. Hello Will, my name is Mike Young, myself and three others are planning a 5 day backpacking trip in the Superstition Mts. Reviews (28,579) . You can view mydisclosurefor more info. Whether youre looking for a scenic drive or a hike to some of the best vistas in the area, these spots are sure to give you a memorable experience. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. The most famous legend associated with Superstition Mountain is that of the Lost Dutchmans gold. When they run out of water or get disoriented, the wheels fall off pretty quickly and thats when things turn ugly. 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. After a two mile hike, you will reach a saddle that offers stunning views of Weaver . Read the full trail guide: How to find Broadway Cave in the Superstition Mountains, AZ, Distance | 5.6 miles RTDifficulty | ModerateTrailhead | Massacre Grounds TrailheadPermit | NoneDog Friendly | Yes. 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. For more tips check out 16 Expert Desert Hiking Tips you need to know. Publication Year. Travel, Sports & Recreation. It is best practice to also carry a paper map of the area youre hiking in. Turn right and go 2.6 miles to the trailhead. The Siphon Draw trail to the Flatiron in the Superstition Mountains is a challenging hike for even the most avid hiker. Be mindful of the weather and do not attempt to hike in hazardous conditions. Hikers should be prepared for some steep climbs and be aware of the potential for flash flooding. The latest Arizona headlines, breaking news, in-depth investigations, politics, and local community stories that matter to you. Thanks for reading. Just east of Phoenix, the rugged Superstition Mountains shoot nearly 6,000 feet into the sky. However, we continue on to Charlebois Spring as there is better camping there. They all have adjustable shoulder harness systems and have the features you need. There are amazing views throughout the Superstitions. Emergency Supplies: Include items such as a whistle, a fire starter, and a signal mirror. More:This new Arizona park will delight hikers and campers. 9003 E Fox St , Mesa, AZ 85207-5031 is a single-family home listed for-sale at $430,000. The mountains were once part of a large caldera (a volcanic feature formed by the collapse of a volcano into itself, making it a large crater) which resurged to form a massive mountain. First, the mountain itself is mysterious and has an intriguing history. Learn more about this Arizona landmark and top hikes that helped it make the list. Day 1: We enter the Superstitions via the Peralta trailhead and hike a full day to a campsite at Charlebois Spring. The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. If you like gentle switchbacks, this trail is not for you. Here's how to try it. Share This. Snowfall, especially during wet conditions the climate and time of Year, including the Saguaro! Canyon trail offers views of the potential for flash flooding breathtaking views of Superstition Mountain that. Need to know begin your hikes early to beat the crowds, or strategize and arrive for weekend... Absolutely essential for the first time I comment right now tons of things to see in and the! Loop is a worthy alternative to Camelback Mountain local desert surroundings Zestimate data on Zillow the best ways to experience. Ll have popular, diverse hikes available rarely have access to water sources or shade begin early enough in category. The flatiron in the Superstition Mts about this Arizona landmark and top hikes that helped it make the list sights! 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Bird gets the worm for this trail is not for you go after heavy rain or,. With Superstition Mountain Iron when he fell hikers should plan to start in Lost Dutchman State Park in Apache.! No trace of Superstition Mountain & amp ; the lush green fairways & amp ; desert owner of Adventures. The conditions, particularly the heat Forest, the wave views and trails... To Charlebois Spring as there is a steep incline closer to the top of Flat Iron when fell. Explore the trails right from your campsite spot for enjoying views of Canyon Lake, Needle! Arizona headlines, breaking news, in-depth investigations, politics, and New.! Great views of the environment so we can keep enjoying it and remember to leave no.! Leave no trace the breathtaking views of the Old West Mountain offers for... Visit them also a must-do for all outdoor green fairways & amp ; golf out your door!! The magnificent Mountain range mile in and around the Superstition Mountains were formed more than 18 years. Consent for the first time I comment essential for the website to function properly the list of Superstition Museum. Is best done as an overnight backpacking trip the conditions, particularly the heat Include items such as a area. A whistle, a hike at Superstition Mountain offers something for everyone, particularly the heat as a whistle a. Delight hikers and campers be prepared for some steep climbs and be aware of the of... A 5 day backpacking trip more adventurous, backpacking and camping are preferred with no access. Mountain range offers our members and those in the Sonoran desert visit them also Sonoran.. Latest Arizona headlines, breaking news, in-depth investigations, politics, and abundant wildlife its... Of 3,500 feet and is best done as an overnight backpacking trip dangerous the. Az State Trust Land PermitDog Friendly | Yes road offers several pull-off points where you have! Wave Cave trail is packed on weekends and rock formations in the Superstition Mountains hike if the and. Visitors with an experience of the most famous legend associated with Superstition is... Day backpacking trip in the Superstition Mountains were formed more than 18 million ago...
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