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. At the end it is rocky with pools of water and petroglyphics. 4. Quick tips for hiking Massacre Grounds Trail to the waterfall. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". Just before the top you face a 12-foot vertical section, but with care and maybe a hand from a fellow hiker, you can find a safe way to the most spectacular views overlooking all of the East Valley. Lost Dutchman State Park is home to Siphon Draw Trail which is a difficult hike (my favorite . Added by Kevin Kaminski. The Treasure Loop Trail is a short, beautiful loop hike through the desert landscape of the Superstition Mountains. There are no switchbacks on this trail; it goes straight up. Genre. 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. The Superstition Mountains, located east of the Phoenix metropolitan area, are a popular destination for hikers and sightseers alike. It is a very challenging hike with several scrambling and class 4 and 5 rock climbing sections. While the name has hieroglyphic in it, what you actually will see are petroglyphs carved into the rocks from thousands of years ago. Simply put- Flatiron it is an epic day hike that consists of hiking up a slippery draw, scrambling up large rocks, and summiting one of the most challenging summits in the Superstition Mountains. If heights dont bother you and you enjoy the challenge of scrambling and route finding- this one is for you. 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. The average day of hiking is 8 miles. Navigation: Pack a compass, map, and/or GPS device. Always pack layers! Superstition Mountain is a popular destination for hikers, offering a variety of trails with something for everyone. United States / West / Mountain (Az, Co, Idaho, Mt, NM, Nv, Ut, WY), Hiking. We backpack on nearly all the trails in the image below. These are just a few of the legends and superstitions associated with Superstition Mountain. Is there gold in the Superstition Mountains? We provide an historical context that includes the region's . Legend tells of the Lost Dutchman's gold mine hidden somewhere within the 160,000 acres of brutal Arizona desert known as the "Superstition Mountains." The promise of a $200 million mother lode has lured thousands of treasure hunters and continues to claim the lives of those eager to decipher the . Just east of Phoenix, the rugged Superstition Mountains shoot nearly 6,000 feet into the sky. The following items are recommended for a successful hike: Water: Stay hydrated by bringing at least one gallon of water per person, per day. This cave is well known for its rock formation that resembles a wave. You cant choose wrong! 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 mountain is also said to be home to a variety of supernatural creatures and forces, such as the Lost Dutchman, the Apache Devil, and the Witch of the Superstition. If youre looking for a base camp to stay at, reserve your camping spot ahead of time here. 4 January 2023
AllTrails map: Weavers Needle via Peralta Canyon, Dutchman #104, Terrapin #234 and Bluff Spring Loop is a 17.7 mile loop trail. The Instagram photo op is to surf the wave while someone stands in the back of the cave to snap your photo. The mileage on AllTrails is completely incorrect though the route was . 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. 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! Regardless of your skill level, Superstition Mountain has something for everyone. Along the way, hikers can expect to see panoramic views of the Sonoran Desert, towering saguaro cacti, wildlife, and seasonal . Lost Dutchman State Park is home to, I recommend booking a couple of nights at the Lost Dutchman State Park cabins or camping lots. It is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. except on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year. This is a hike that you can accomplish on your own or with the help of a backpacking guide such as myself. Dont forget to bring plenty of water for this exposed trail. FR 78 is maintained dirt with some potholes and washboard sections passable by carefully driven sedans. Read the full trail guide: Massacre Falls | A magical waterfall in Phoenixs Superstition Mountains. 4 Best Hikes in the Superstition Mountains. Be aware of the terrain and potential danger. I love coming across little nuggets of paradises on the web and learn about them. The hike starts out easy but there is a steep incline closer to the summit at the cave. A major geological upheaval notwithstanding, the slow-burn erosion and superficial smudges incurred regularly on the Second Water Trail are barely perceivable over a single human lifetime. Getting to the top of the landform that juts out 2,500 feet above Lost Dutchman State Park in Apache Junction is challenging - it does not give up its bragging rights easily . Footwear: Wear sturdy, waterproof shoes or boots. 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. Some say as many as 600 people have died in search of the gold and many have gone missing. According to legend, she was an Apache woman who lived in a cave on the mountain and cursed anyone who ventured too close to her home. But the Fremont Saddle is a popular location for people of all ages to turn back. Each location icon marks the destination (if available). From old mines, tales of lost gold, petroglyphs, and ancient ruins, you just may stumble upon something fascinating. First, take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding Sonoran Desert. View full map. Simply put- Flatiron it is an epic day hike that consists of hiking up a slippery draw, scrambling up large rocks, and summiting one of the most challenging summits in the Superstition Mountains. Lost Dutchman State Park is a great spot for enjoying views of the Superstition Mountains. The Apache believed in these mountains lay a hole that led . While it is long in length the elevation gain isnt too much to handle nor is it strenuous. You can view mydisclosurefor more info. It is best practice to also carry a paper map of the area youre hiking in. Superstition Mountain Museum. 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. The helicopters are for tours and to look for injured or lost hikers. This is one of the most popular trails in Superstition Wilderness, which features an incredible view of Weaver's Needle from the saddle. Some of them will be returning, some are new to this year's event. Reviews (28,579) . Preparation saves lives. 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 . Superstition Mountain is home to a long-standing Native American legend, which tells of a lost Dutchmans gold mine hidden in the mountain. These hikes are breathtaking! 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. By clicking Accept All, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. The iconic Saguaro Cactus punctuates the mountain slopes as do a cornucopia of other succulents. My name is Kevin Antol. From the top of the mountain, you can see for miles in any direction. One of the easier trails because the surrounding area is so flat, the Treasure Loop Trail is still excellent. Elevation: 1,940-2,420 feet (878 feet of accumulated elevation change). REI size and color availability good ($199.95), Osprey Rook 65 Pack Mens Day 3: The longest hike is about 10 miles as we work our way back to the Peralta trailhead. Experts believe the Superstition Mountains were formed more than 18 million years ago by volcanic activity. 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. It is a gradual uphill climb and is 2.8 miles each way, rated easy to moderate. Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. This state park is my favorite vantage point of the range. Id love to return and sleep under the stars here! 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. So, a mountain hike to a cave is a pretty cool hike to do in Arizona. Read more of Mare Czinar's hikes at http://arizonahiking.blogspot.com. Towering cliffs and giant hoodoos on the ridge line almost look like landscapes from the Lord of the Rings movies. It is said that the mountain was formed during a battle between a supernatural Thunder God and a group of Apache warriors. A lot of the parking for these trails are limited and they fill up fast. The Superstition Mountain wilderness hiking area, also known as Superstition Wilderness-Tonto Forest is located on the world famous Superstition Mountain. COUNTRY-MUSIC-FESTIVALS. Hopefully after reading this post youll be hiking in the Superstition Mountains in no time! backpacking traininghiking fitness training, michael young If youre looking for a great beginner hike in the Superstition Mountains, Treasure Loop is a the perfect choice. While the legend has never been proven true, it still elicits curiosity and wonder. Massacre Falls is a seasonal waterfall in the Superstition Wilderness of Arizona. The Peralta trail extends for miles beyond the saddle, where many people end their hike after getting the bestviews of Weavers Needle,to create longer loops. I picked 3 quality brands with 100% guaranteed packs at moderate price points that come with a manufacturers warranty. You wont regret the early wakeup call because youll have the perfect view of the sun rising while you sit on the wave. This trail is quite challenging, with many steep climbs and rocky terrain. Ending at the convergence of the Boulder Canyon and Dutchman Trails, the Boulder Canyon trail runs 7.8 miles south of the marina at Canyon Lake. With its dramatic landscape, beautiful wildflowers, and abundant wildlife, Superstition Mountain is truly an amazing place to explore. 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. You'll find that the temperatures during this time are more comfortable and typically less than 100 degrees. Turn left and follow Idaho to SR 88, turn right and continue to First Water Road (Forest Road 78), which is about a half mile past the entrance to Lost Dutchman State Park and is signed for First Water Trailhead. Richard . Teddy Bear Cholla cactus as well as some Ocotillo in bloom. By Samantha Berlin On 1/27/22 at 5:35 PM EST. The body of hiker Richard Jacobson . If you havent become familiar with this prominent rock formation you will after this hike. If youre new to the desert and this wilderness, Id suggest starting with a beginner trail or one of the shorter trails such as Wave Cave. This trail is perfect for day hikers, as some of the best views are within the first 3 miles! Overview. For reference- if it is 85 degrees or hotter, I would be extremely cautious about embarking on an all day hike. Its a lengthy story with many players stretched over 250 years. REI size and color availability good ($199.95), Granite Gear Crown2 60 Pack Womens 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. Hiking Arizona. It isnt for the faint of heart, though. The pin on the Google map is the Superstition Mountains. Ranging in elevation from 2000 to 6265 feet, the Superstition Wilderness Area was created in 1964 and designated 160,000 acres protected. Many of the lots have views . With some planning and preparation, you can have a safe and enjoyable experience. You can download my tracks for each of these Superstition Mountain hikesand gain access to my library of all tracked hikes. The Lost Dutchman State Park, which opened in 1977 and has the Peralta Trail, is also a nod at the legend. As you view down the spine and gasp at where you came from, youll be looking at my favorite views in these mountains. At 3,000 feet high, Superstition Mountain seems to stand guard protecting the lore, myths, stories past and the spectacular Superstition Wilderness that still . The Siphon Draw trail gains 2,500 feet over 3 miles before it reaches the top of Flat Iron (gulp). Your email address will not be published. More:Here's a fun, flower-filled springtime hike near Phoenix that just about anyone can do. Of all the Superstition Mountains hiking trails, Flat Iron can be the most demanding in the shortest distance, but also the most rewarding. Superstition Mountain is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including the iconic Saguaro cactus. Getting there: From Phoenix, take U.S. 60 east to Exit 196 for Idaho Road (State Route 88). If you time it right youll get to witness a magical waterfall within the Superstition Mountains. This well traveled path is a mild hike that allows you to spend more time socializing and less time sucking wind. For those interested in experiencing the Superstition Mountains for the first time I would recommend visiting Lost Dutchman State Park. The rugged terrain through this mountain range is not to be underestimated. They are within the Tonto National Forest and are largely designated as a wilderness area. If it has rained recently there will be a small waterfall and water trickling down the draw! They all have adjustable shoulder harness systems and have the features you need. This 4.5-mile trail leads to the top of the mountain and offers spectacular views of the surrounding desert. This protected land was designated in 1939, and was expanded in 1984 to its current size of 160,200 acres. 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. There is gold in the mountains, but the Lost Dutchmans Mine has never been found since the Dutchman died. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Spectacular hillside lots with views of the Superstition Mountain and desert. That being said, the best times to hike this wilderness area are typically November April. . 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. 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. 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. For a very scenic hike look no further than Peralta Trail to Fremont Saddle. Here are a few of the highlights of a hike at Superstition Mountain. I have been adventuring in the Superstition Mountains for about five years now after I moved to Mesa, Arizona. 3. What is the curse of Superstition Mountain? Other than that, weekends are the busiest time at all these places I have listed so go early. The terminolgy referring to this area is very loose. The Treasure Loop trail begins in the Lost Dutchman State Park area and requires an entry fee of $7 per vehicle. Campbell also says she expects a water rate hike in 2023, by an unknown amount. Its rugged terrain out there and it will punish you if you are inexperienced. This loop below shows part of the system we use, the Dutchmans and Terrapin trails. Hiking the Hieroglyphic Trail. Located within an hour of Phoenix, they are just close enough to be convenient, yet their ruggedness keeps the crowds away. Tagged under: Bring snacks and a meal to ensure that you stay energized and nourished. Are you familiar with Weavers Needle yet? Carry at least two (2) liters of water with you for the duration of your hike, and plan for additional hydration breaks if necessary. Great views and several trails within the park lead to a very good day. Superstition Mountains, Tonto National Forest In the 1930s, you might have seen Arthur Weber wandering around Peralta Canyon. Can you camp in the Superstition Mountains? This was a real mining town back in the late 1800s and has now been turned into a tourist spot for some old West fun the whole family can enjoy. Elevation: 1,940-2,420 feet (878 feet of accumulated elevation change). Wear appropriate clothing for the climate and time of year, including light layers, a hat, and sunscreen. What is dispersed campingSuperstition Mountains? Superstition Sunrise is a . Gold Canyon is located at the foot of the mountain. January 22, 2023 at 1:53 pm The majority of the hike is flat up until you reach the base of the cave. Weve only begun to scratch the surface when it comes to trail options within the Superstition Mountains. That resembles a wave destination for hikers and sightseers alike for injured or lost hikers Mesa! 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