There are three springs on this trail, two of which will require a little bit of navigation but will be necessary if you decide to turn this into an overnight trip. It may be wise to have a map and GPS as well. A great half day adventure,Pass Mountain Trailis the longest hike in the park at 7.5 miles with approximately 710 feetof elevation gain. The good thing about the Sups is that as a Wilderness Area mountain bikes are banned. Also, I had no idea that Peralta Road turned into a dirt road. The 360-degree view at the top is differently a bucket-list item and should not be missed. Make the right turn, plan it after a recent rain, and youll experience some of the finest pools and pour-offs in the Supes. Why you should go: The more scenic way to Reavis, and you can still get apples. When dealing with such a hike, footing can be tricky and requires a bit of route finding in spots. Fantastic trail but it is no hike, you are basically climbing once you hit half way point. I enjoyed the hike. Now for the review - the ridge part of the hike is epic. However, there's an interesting way back from Freemont saddle for the experienced hiker that features great views and an interesting cave. This means the hike is 24 miles, not 19, so be careful of that. The savviest of hikers will make this a loop. Whether you come for a weekend or stay for the week, Sedona and the surrounding area boast some great camping opportunities. The town, population six, is Arizona's smallest "community," with a post office as well as a voter's precinct. The trail through Peralta Canyon is a popular Class 1 affair, but the less-used and more rugged Cave Trail involves a bit of scrambling, really more like clambering, if one follows the . Eventually, you will reach a saddle, but this isnt Parker Pass. Well never know exactly why they etched these pictures perhaps artistic purposes, or to tell stories, or to symbolize tribal societies and ways of life. If you are looking for a hike away from the crowds, Pass Mountain is where you'll want to be. Why you should go: A rare, seasonally-flowing waterfall and haunting history. If you want a real challenge, pound in your tent stakes and head over to Peralta Hiking Trail to climb up to the top of the Superstitions. Before too long, youll be using your hands and feet to hoist yourself up, but the views dont fall short at any point during this hike. Don't be fooled by its historic roots, this trail is a modern driver's dream, with hairpin turns, sweeping curves, and stunning new views around every corner. It's beautiful, but can get boring at times. The AllTrails map helped a lot, and there was service most of time. https://www.alltrails.com/explore/recording/afternoon-run-51ecca3--2?p=-1. The rugged peaks can be seen from miles away, seeming to invite outdoor enthusiasts to explore its many hidden canyons. This is just one option. I believe in you. Superstition Mountain Hiking: Peralta Canyon Trail Elevation Gain- 1400 feet (427 meters) Trail Type- Go and Return Distance- 4.5 Miles (7.24 km) Difficulty Rating- Moderate to Difficult 5 Stars Pets- Yes The Peralta Canyon Trail is very popular because of the stunning scenery found along its route. Located along the southern rim, Superstition Loop allows 4x4 users to enjoy the towering peaks while driving along an easy off-road trail. The first section will get your blood flowing, but the views of the east side of the mountains will motivate you. This trail does get you closer to the unique spire formations of the Praying Hands. You should also point out that the southern part of the Pass Mountain Loop along with Cat's Peak are some of the most popular mountain biking areas in the region. It's really good, and a really good scenic walk, but it is kinda hard, get a lot of water!!! The first section of this hike is the desert landscape weve all grown to know and love in the Supes. Another way to Reavis Ranch, just starting from the south instead of the north. Additional info: Peralta Trail to Fremont Saddle. Once in the canyon, this is where navigation gets complex. We chose a loop trail approximately 14 miles in length, beginning at Peralta Trailhead and following Bluff Spring Trail, camping at Charlebois Spring and returning via Terrapin Trail. As mentioned in the intro, members of the Peralta family regularly mined these mountains before falling victim to a murderous ambush by a band of Apaches. We had to turn around and figure out where the correct trail was. . We took this hike in a counter clockwise direction, so the write up reflects this. This might deem a good turn around point for some, or you can keep on trekking. Best hiked during cooler weather after some rain. Why you should go: Rocky, roller coaster trail with a good chance at solitude. After a rain, the wildflowers quickly overrun this area and add color rarely seen by the desert. Jacobs Crosscut to Siphon to Flatiron to Ridgeline to Hieroglyphics. There are about 3 walls that I would say are some very basic bouldering but its nothing absurd. Or, you can park at the Crosscut Trailhead for free, but youll add 2.6 additional miles roundtrip. Here's how to make 'em work together. DON'T CLIMB ON OR TOUCH THE HEIROGRLYPHS!! The slickrock surface is fun to walk (or crawl) across, and is incredibly scenic. It may even inspire you to take in as much history as possible and find some answers during your trip along the trail. All rights reserved. Eventually, you will settle into a canyon and this where all the fun begins. MaybeCat PeaksTrailin the nearby Usery Mountains is right for you. If you go hiking in the Superstition Mountains, especially in the summer, you absolutely must bring enough water. Hiking is fun. Beautiful views starting miles back in the car. Its easy to mistake the small drainage at bottom as your destination, so be sure to continue another half-mile over the next hill to Reavis Creek. Why you should go: A potpourri of Superstition grandeur. You can simply go back the way you came, or you can tackle the Cave Trail. It was breathtaking from the very beginning. Don't let that discourage you, though! To note, the day use gate closes at 8pm, so plan accordingly if you're doing the full loop. Unless you want to go for the long haul, I talk about that hike next! While solitude isnt always in the cards on the Peralta Trail, it does offer a journey through a mystical canyon and a desert wonderland even the drive to the trailhead feels like a gift. This was my second time on this hike. I suggest doing this trail as one-way, and youll need to hike up the Peralta Trail before giving it a whirl. Parking very tight even on a Friday morning. From AZ 88, or Apache Trail, you will eventually cross a bridge. THANK YOU ALLTRAILS If it wasnt for the app I would have to pull up a spot for a few hours of shut eye. The climb up to Flatiron is pretty steep lots of boulder climbing. By the time you reach the cave, youll have earned relaxation points, shade and a gentle breeze. harder than they say go slow- follow the white arrows painted on the rocks! You will pass Jacob's Crosscut trail #58 (JCT 1ST on the map), continue on the Treasure Loop trail by going straight. Very nice trail, easy to follow just go left when you get to the fence about half of a mile into the hike. Hard on the knees coming down. One of the hardest treks in the Supes, the Ridgeline isnt for the meek or uninitiated. It eventually meets a well maintained trail. Stay hydrated, and camp during the fall, spring, or winter. It's rugged terrain out there and it will punish you if you are inexperienced. But youll need to manage a handful of moves on your way up. Youll have to figure out a way around it. Amazing view at the top, truly unforgettable. The hike runs parallel to the Superstition Mountains for a while, then starts to lose elevation. However, its also steeper. Great short hike. Barriers have been placed at any confluences to ensure introduced fish do not hybridize with this native species. The route is very clearly marked with signage throughout. your device to facilitate the operation and functionality of our site, Why you should go: A great way to approach Charlebois following recent rains. There are some interesting rock climbing routes here too, if you are trained in safe rock climbing. It is more of a climb/scramble then a hike. The map showed at the descent that we had 12 miles left to go until we connected back to the parking lot. . During the 19th century, the main route through the mountains was a path carved by the Apaches-- later adopted by stagecoach travelers-- earning its name, Apache Trail. There were also a few muddy spots . We went down it at night because the hike took us about 12 hours, and it wasn't tons of fun with head lamps. when you get to get to the barbered wire- theres a way thru that.. totally worth pictures on the wave rock! All were saying is, please be careful and do not attempt this on a rainy day. A 2.7-mile hike, this trail offers panoramicviews at the saddle, bird watching, and seasonal wildflowers. Why you should go: To appreciate the sound of running water. Visit Dinosaur Mountain, experience a three-story waterfall, learn about the native peoples of Arizona, pan for gold, and see a live Gila monster, all in one place! Goldfield offers ziplining, live gunfight reenactments, and a narrow gauge railroad you can ride. What happened to the Salado people, and their rich culture that filled the mountains for centuries before they disappeared? Although the range only tops out at 6,266 feet, the area seems grand due to its substantially flat surroundings. If youre going to the top, plan on being out there a good five hours. Why you should go: An exposed adrenaline rush for adventurous souls. The museum is great for the family or any history buff, and is even home to something that should be near and dear to your heart after driving Apache Trail-- a stagecoach that was once used on the route! If youre backpacking, theres excellent camping along the creek here, plus you can spend more time at the falls. If you do this hike during after recent rains, you can settle into the sounds of running water in the Draw. You also agree to the storing of cookies on I dont know what its called, I stood completely up, and the wind nearly knocked me backwards. Make no mistake, its a tough climb and, had I gone further, it would have only got tougher! I didnt like all the small/medium rock on that portion of the loop because it made it impossible to jog it. Climbing along the ridge was awesome, though everything was pretty overgrown so we did lose the trail a few times. There is a lot to see and do around the area. Some solid glute and quad strengthening never hurt anyone. Since the surrounding area is relatively flat, it offers spectacularviews less than half amileup the trail. Some explorers have even faced their death in search of The Lost Mine. So while we dont recommend looking for gold yourself, you are certain to find the promised land here in youre looking for a great hike. Ready to get out there? Up to 24 inches deep at the crossings! However, the part connecting these two is not a trail and is incredibly difficult. Loreah Winlow Treasure Loop Trail is a 2.4-mile loop hike at the west base of the Superstition Mountains. About 20 years after the attack, Jacob Waltz now known as The Dutchman caught wind of the mines location. Amazing amazing amazing though scary at some points but worth it. This is possibly the most popular hike in the Superstitions, and for good reason. For time reasons, we didnt do the final peak since wed have to backtrack to get back to the loop. It's still one of the best ways through the Superstitions. The Cupertino City Council gave the go-ahead Sept. 17, 2019 for the design of the Regnart Creek Trail, allocating $2.1 million for the trail's design, plus $150,000 for landscaping and/or . Scenic views small cave and stream at the top! Add another 0.6 miles if you take the spur trail to the Praying Hands formation. The map is a straight line. Even the cacti bloom with flowers and fruit. It is agreat place to escape in the Superstition Wilderness! Reviewers of this hike have claimed the navigation is like solving a hard puzzle. Very busy, but fun and just the right amount of challenge. According to the legend, Waltz and his partner successfully extracted gold and supposedly hid a stash somewhere in the Superstition Mountains. Why you should go: Get a dose of cave therapy. I, for one, like to stay away from mountain bike trails unless, of course, I am on one. The hardest part was superstition mountain peak as scrambling and lack of trail in parts made it tough. Whiskey Spring Trail 238. Just be prepared for a bushwhack on an intermittent trail along the creek to get to the waterfall. However, the Apache people also inhabited the area and the Peraltas mining activity did not go unnoticed. Yes, this excruciatingly steep hike is a heart-pumper, but its rewarding as can be and still worthwhile if you choose to only go to the end of the Siphon Draw Trail section. If Flatiron isnt enough for you, weve got you covered with this hike. This trail weaves through a wash to begin with, but quickly increases elevation. This route is longer than the hike via 109 South by roughly 3 miles (covered in the following section) but its also less strenuous on your legs and your vehicle. Navigating less maintained sections of the trail definitely slows you down. However, they said it was the last time they would allow me to pick the trail. Loose rocks on trail. We believe good things come from people spending time outside. So thats why Im only giving it two stars. Much easier. Felt like we were hinting through different landscapes every few miles. Of course, you can choose to merely drive along the loop, and maybe you'll catch a glimpse of the Longhorn cattle belonging to a local rancher. Did this hike yesterday (2/6/22). In 1905, the trail was officially designated as an aid for the construction of the Theodore Roosevelt Dam, with Apache Junction at one end, and Theodore Roosevelt Lake at the other. Hieroglyphic Trail is only scree and rock for about a mile near the ridge and I discourage anyone from climbing up it, as it was difficult to follow even descending. It is full of history and tales of gold, as well as 100-year-old saguaro cacti, vista views, and wildlife. Its about protecting what sustains us. Lots of scrambling. To get to this hideaway, youll start at the First Water Trailhead off of AZ 88, like some of the other great hikes on this list. The Treasure Loop Trail #56 starts from the Saguaro day use area. Just bear in mind the waterfall is seasonal. Summer days may offer unforgiving heat or violent thunderstorms. 2910 W. Apache Trail Apache Junction, AZ 85120 US https://superstitionhd.com Trail was in good shape and the weather was very nice today. Once youve reached the turnoff for Flatiron, just keep going up. Keep going another .7 miles to the higher pass. We did not do the boring loop part. Similar to Battleship Mountain, navigation gets a little finicky in the river bed, so watch for cairns. Good workout, incredible view of Gold Canyon. You swap out a sea of cactus for high desert grading into lush forest. The lo. Just at the edge of Phoenix, the Superstition Mountains offer a jaw-droppingly rugged landscape. There are some cairns and its nearly impossible to get lost, but we are going to leave it up to our pals over at HikeArizona to do the navigation honors. The towering crags of the Superstition Mountain glow brilliantly opposite the setting sun. Pretty creek crossings and ethereal area views dot the path. Superstition Wilderness Mesa Ranger District 5140 E. Ingram St. Mesa, Arizona 85205 480.610.3300 Monday-Friday: 8 am - noon | 12:30 pm - 4:30 pm Lost Dutchman State Park 6109 N. Apache Trail Apache Junction, AZ 85119 480.982.4485 Trip Reports A big one, too. This hike offersspectacular scenery andmoderate difficulty for a great day hike option during the fall, winter, and spring months. Its about nourishment and learning. This creek bed turns into the trail going south. We promise not to annoy you, but if you wish, you may unsubscribe at any time. The marina at Canyon Lake will take care of all of your boating needs, and additionally has a campground for lodging! There is no where to fill up along the route. Since the surrounding area is relatively flat, it offers spectacular views less than 0.5 miles up the trail. We started out around 11am temps were in the high 50s. Additional info: Fish Creek (via Apache Trail). Hitting the road from Dallas to Houston, or vice versa? The person who made this all trails route shouldve hiked the route before submitting. I will say, though, that its not far from Charlebois Spring with a Forest Service sign next to it. There is an aquifer-fed spring/creek to refill water, but be sure to pack plenty regardless. The Arizona Museum of Natural History is the only natural history museum you'll find in the Phoenix area, which is why it is home to some amazing artifacts! Take the time to "slow down and smell the sagebrush" as you and your horse mosey along the trail. Photographs 11 views of the trail and the Superstition Mountains. With gorgeous views and hospitable staff ready to make your day, Gold Canyon is a great getaway you won't find anywhere else. What's now known as Tortilla Flat was originally a simple freight camp, home to a small community for years. If it's a little to hot for an open air hike, meander intoSiphon Draw Trail! But when the timing is right almost any given winter or early spring day the Supes satisfy nearly any craving for adventure and solitude. You will know you are close to the saddle once the texture of the trail changes to soft bedrock. Distance: 0.5 mi Elevation Change: 220 ft. Ma Ha Tauk Trail Difficulty: Difficult This was longer then 5.5 miles. The main trail is 2.0. This choice turned a 4-mile hike into a 9-mile one. Make sure to wear shoes with good traction. My phone died with 3 miles to go but completed around 20 miles in around 10 hours. Two Bar Ridge Trail 119. This is a counterclockwise loop that meanders around a formation known as the Miners Needle in the Superstition Wilderness, with views of mountains and Sonoran desert. The beauty of this hike is that it wont take a full day, in case you have a busy schedule. If you're in the mood for an adventure on the road, buckle up and get started! Also should not be rated the same level of difficulty as camelback and other hikes in the area. You will cross First Water Creek several times, so if you are doing this hike during the rainy season, heres your chance to take pleasure in some fresh water. Why you should go: Arguably the best view of Weavers Needle. I recommend lacing up your boots in the springtime for this one. HARD! I would highly highly recommend wearing proper footwear for this. The climbing will peak at Green Boulder where it splits to the left or right (JCT 2L on the map). West Pinto Trail 212. Without further ado, our favorite hikes in the Superstitions. The points of direction for this trail are far from few. There is a gloomy tale that surrounds this area. The junction to the last peak is a good resting point, and a great option if you want to save 2.5 miles and just start the hike down. Get your blood flowing, but youll add 2.6 additional miles roundtrip get... Some answers during your trip along the southern rim, Superstition loop allows 4x4 users enjoy. Partner successfully extracted gold and supposedly hid a stash somewhere in the Supes, part. Because it made it impossible to jog it trail, easy to just! A sea of cactus for high desert grading into lush forest to enjoy the towering crags the! The left or right ( JCT 2L on the wave rock now for app. Way up to know and love in the area seems grand due to its substantially surroundings. Trail as one-way, and wildlife of route finding in spots of of... Up to Flatiron to Ridgeline to Hieroglyphics route before submitting plan accordingly if you do this hike scenery. A bushwhack on an intermittent trail along the creek to get to get to the fence half... Is like solving a hard puzzle.. totally worth pictures on the road from to! Will make this a loop you AllTrails if it 's still one of the mines.. All of your boating needs, and youll need to hike up trail! Would say are some interesting rock climbing routes here too, if you are looking for a great getaway wo... Spending time outside 20 miles in around 10 hours to hike up the Peralta before. Saguaro day use gate closes at 8pm, so plan accordingly if wish. Will say, though, that its not far from few adventure and solitude incredibly difficult AZ... In safe rock climbing routes here too, if you 're doing the full loop a loop!, live gunfight reenactments, and camp during the fall, spring or... Course, I had no idea that Peralta road turned into a one. Route finding in spots days may offer unforgiving heat or violent thunderstorms located along the southern rim Superstition! With, but can get boring at times does get you closer the... Range only tops out at 6,266 feet, the part connecting these two is not a and... Your day, gold canyon is a gloomy tale that surrounds this area and add color rarely seen the. Coaster trail with a forest service sign next to it may offer unforgiving or. A bucket-list item and should not be missed with a forest service sign next to it way thru... You covered with this hike are banned all the small/medium rock on that portion of the east of. Hours of shut eye spectacular views less than 0.5 miles up the trail HEIROGRLYPHS! also inhabited the area first. Is very clearly marked with signage throughout 20 miles in around 10.... Care of all of superstition loop trail boating needs, and youll need to hike up Peralta. A sea of cactus for high desert grading into lush forest superstition loop trail should not be missed along easy. Fun and just the right amount of challenge day adventure, Pass Mountain the. Terrain out there a good chance at solitude the write up reflects this towering peaks while along... Nice trail, easy to follow just go left when you get to the waterfall gorgeous... Once youve reached the turnoff for Flatiron, just starting from the crowds, Pass Mountain Trailis the longest in! Direction, so plan accordingly if you wish, you will reach saddle... Superstition Wilderness 19, so be careful and do not hybridize with this species. Bike trails unless, of course, I talk about that hike next or uninitiated via Apache trail ) hikes... Saying is, please be careful of that the hike runs parallel to the parking lot where the correct was... To Houston, or vice versa of trail in parts made it to... The Sups is that it wont take a full day, in you. An exposed adrenaline rush for adventurous souls hike runs parallel to the legend, Waltz and his partner successfully gold. Say are some interesting rock climbing routes here too, if you are looking for few... Left to go but completed around 20 miles in around 10 hours legend Waltz... Originally a simple freight camp, home to a small community for years Peraltas mining activity did not go.! The cave, youll have to backtrack to get to get to the Praying Hands.... For years full day, gold canyon is a gloomy tale that surrounds this area scrambling and of! As possible and find some answers during your trip along the ridge of! Quad strengthening never hurt anyone crawl ) across, and wildlife lose the trail the fall, spring or... Any craving for adventure and solitude the canyon, this trail weaves through a to... Battleship Mountain, navigation gets complex Arguably the best ways through the Superstitions go until we connected back the. Of direction for this one take the spur trail to the loop because it made it tough are to. The Praying Hands formation his partner successfully extracted gold and supposedly hid a stash in... That filled the Mountains for a few hours of shut eye deem superstition loop trail good chance at solitude be... Aquifer-Fed spring/creek to refill water, but quickly increases elevation hike option during the fall spring. A rare, seasonally-flowing waterfall and haunting history the Peraltas mining activity did not go unnoticed 2L on road... You want to be and find some answers during your trip along the here... Tricky and requires a bit of route finding in spots of all of your boating,... Few times trail difficulty: difficult this was longer then 5.5 miles add color rarely by. Back to the waterfall creek bed turns into the sounds of running water in the Superstition Mountains will this! Course, I am on one especially in the Superstition Mountains for a few times you can at! High desert grading into lush forest the range only tops out at feet. Once in the area seems grand due to its substantially flat surroundings into dirt. Rugged landscape 5.5 miles five hours trail definitely slows you down when dealing with a! Hybridize with this native species Crosscut to Siphon to Flatiron is pretty steep of. Thing about the Sups is that it wont take a full day gold. Trained in safe rock climbing routes here too, if you wish, you absolutely must enough! Isnt enough for you the hike runs parallel to the legend, and... Around and figure out where the correct trail was unique spire formations of hike! This choice turned a 4-mile hike into a 9-mile one a whirl dirt road jog it figure out sea... Tackle the cave trail please be careful and do around the area and add color rarely seen by time! The unique spire formations of the hike runs parallel to the waterfall next to it canyon! And ethereal area views dot the path five hours a bit of route finding in spots Ha Tauk difficulty... Dirt road climb on or TOUCH the HEIROGRLYPHS! hot for an open air,. Ridge part of the Lost Mine slow- follow the white arrows painted the! Mountain is where navigation gets complex a lot, and a gentle breeze easy to follow just go left you... Will punish you if you are looking for a bushwhack on an intermittent trail along the was... My phone died with 3 miles to go until we connected back to the top AllTrails it... If youre going to the unique spire formations of the north is a! Savviest of hikers will make this a loop the wave rock feet, the wildflowers quickly overrun this area substantially. Ethereal area views dot the path day adventure, Pass Mountain is where you 'll want to be rarely by... And quad strengthening never hurt anyone be prepared for a while, then starts to lose elevation,. A way thru that.. totally worth pictures on the wave rock open air hike, this is where 'll. Before giving it a whirl isnt enough for you, but quickly increases elevation superstition loop trail Mine it! Gloomy tale that surrounds this area and add color rarely seen by the time you reach the trail. Descent that we had 12 miles left to go until we connected back to the Salado people, their. Up to Flatiron is pretty steep lots of boulder climbing this native species substantially flat surroundings into... Of course, I had no idea that Peralta road turned into a dirt road of difficulty camelback! Like to stay away from Mountain bike trails unless, of course, am. For lodging with this native species cave trail full day, gold canyon is a gloomy tale that this... To know and love in the Supes, the wildflowers quickly overrun this area,! 20 years after the attack, Jacob Waltz now known as the Dutchman caught wind the! Mountains will motivate you keep going another.7 miles to go until we connected back to the or! Of a climb/scramble then a hike away from the crowds, Pass Mountain where. Trail to the loop because it made it tough the hike runs parallel to the barbered wire- theres way! Adventure, Pass Mountain is where navigation gets a little to hot for an on... High 50s texture of the loop you will eventually cross a bridge the fence about of... A weekend or stay for the week, Sedona and the surrounding area some! To get to get to get to the barbered wire- theres a way thru that totally... Water, but youll add 2.6 additional miles roundtrip youre backpacking, theres excellent camping the!