The Apache Trail attracts adventurers from all around, and offers a number of activities for the hiker, biker, photographer, and professional relaxer in all of us. From Ma Ha Tauk Trail, turn left to proceed to Crosscut Trail. The trail starts off with an easy approach towards the vertical cliffs of the Superstition Mountains. Once youve reached the turnoff for Flatiron, just keep going up. Others have noted that as you continue on the north side of First Water Creek, a tunnel that leads to an old mine operation. Depending on the time of year, there will be more or less water in the creek. When in solitude, the desert speaks. Grab some skilled hiking buddies, at least a gallon of water, a GPS or topographic map and hit the trail. Additional info: Charlebois Spring (Via First Water trailhead). At the southwest end of the foothills of the mountains, the Superstition Mountain Museum offers exhibits that educate folks about the rich history of Arizona, starting with the story of the Apaches. The hike runs parallel to the Superstition Mountains for a while, then starts to lose elevation. There is a well-developed trail system, and the western end of the wilderness receives heavy use during the cooler times of the year. From the Peralta trailhead, head right toward Bluff Springs (to the left is the Peralta Trail, which is described at #5 on this list). This was longer then 5.5 miles. Just bear in mind the waterfall is seasonal. Reward yourself afterward. The last time I did this hike, I came across a group of three that had pitched a tent at one of the lookouts. Sign up for our free email to join thousands of readers getting epic travel, hiking, camping and gear ideas every week. Next time I'll try to make it to the waterfall! My Apple Watch clocked in at 21.73 miles with 5,507 feet of gain. Although the range only tops out at 6,266 feet, the area seems grand due to its substantially flat surroundings. once at the parking lot, the hike back to Lost Dutchman is relatively flat and uneventful. Learn what makes these mountains so superstitious, all while enjoying some of the lighter exhibits as well. This trail will wind you through some amazing sights and scenes. The desert turns surprisingly green and the wildflowers abound. Good trails, some slippery parts, loose rocks, decent hike overall, beautiful scenery. If you are going with someone and have two cars, I would park one in the lot at hieroglyphics trailhead. By the time you reach the cave, youll have earned relaxation points, shade and a gentle breeze. Fall is usually the best time. Weavers Needle is a volcanic monolith soaring nearly 1,300 feet from base to summit. Youre scrambling over boulders and fighting through cat claw. Ran out with 6 miles to go. THANK YOU ALLTRAILS If it wasnt for the app I would have to pull up a spot for a few hours of shut eye. But once youre at the top of this mountain, the views are 360 degrees: Weavers Needle, Black Mesa, Canyon Lake, LaBarge Canyon and the vastness of the Superstition Wilderness. Tales of gold, mystery and phenomena defines the lore of the Superstitions. Trail Descriptions 19th Ave. Trailhead 10500 S. 19th Ave. Crosscut Trail Access: Start at the 19th Ave. Trailhead to connect to Ma a Tauk Trail. This160,200-acre wilderness area was established as a pre-wilderness areain 1939, but it wasexpanded to its current size in 1964 when it was designated as an official wilderness area. After years of movement, thousands of people of all different cultures found themselves settled in the Tonto Basin. Youll pass a handful of small caves, do a little scrambling, and have much more solitude than you got on the Peralta Trail which was probably none unless you got lucky. Just 15 miles up the trail from Apache Junction, the lake offers scenic red canyons surrounding bright waters, inviting you to boat, ski, fish, or just take it all in. Tons off cactus needles in me. A great half day adventure,Pass Mountain Trailis the longest hike in the park at 7.5 miles with approximately 710 feetof elevation gain. Here's our guide to conquering Apache Trail. At Exit 196, drive north 1 mile on Idaho Road to State Highway 88. Recommend that you download the map. Old West reenactors even make occasional appearances on weekends, weather permitting. WEAVERS NEEDLE LOOP STATS. In the 1840s, the Peralta family of Mexico discovered gold near Apache Junction and continuously made trips to bring it back to Mexico. No matter your ability, the Superstition Wilderness has a day hike for you! Getting to Fish Creek is pretty easy, too. To stay on this loop hike, go left here. Hike the Treasure Loop trail in the Superstition wilderness of Arizona. The mileage on AllTrails is completely incorrect though the route was around 15.7 miles for me. MaybeCat PeaksTrailin the nearby Usery Mountains is right for you. 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. Its not scorching and the apples are in season. crowds, fee to enter and park in Lost Dutchman State Park ($7 as of May 2013). One of the most popular hikes in the Superstitions begins at the Peralta Trailhead and climbs roughly 1,300 feet to Fremont Saddle. There are many spots where you can see both east (towards Four Peaks and Superstition Wilderness) and west (towards Phoenix) and its moments like those that remind you why you're about to hike 20+ miles. I will say, though, that its not far from Charlebois Spring with a Forest Service sign next to it. This is possibly the most popular hike in the Superstitions, and for good reason. The Superstition Loop Trail starts and ends on Peralta Rd in Gold Canyon AZ. Also, It was very windy the day that we went. Here's how to make 'em work together. Why you should go: Fresh apple picking and a refreshing pine forest. Here, you have the chance to tour the authentic gold mine and the town that once boomed before it sadly died out when the mine dried up. However, the part connecting these two is not a trail and is incredibly difficult. This trail weaves through a wash to begin with, but quickly increases elevation. I hiked clockwise from First Water Road up Flatiron, connected to the ridgeline, and followed the loop down hieroglyphic trail to Jacobs Crosscut back to First Water. So thats why Im only giving it two stars. If you only have the afternoon, spend time hiking and biking through the rugged trails that lead to Tonto State Forest. Eventually, you will settle into a canyon and this where all the fun begins. Distance: 12.5 miles Type: Loop Elevation Gain: 2,561 feet Difficulty: Moderate Location: Superstition Mountains Trailhead: Peralta Trailhead Dogs Allowed: Yes Local Tip: If you aren't up for a 12.5 mile hike but still want to check out the famous Weavers Needle, you can hike part of the trail up to Fremont Saddle and then back for a much shorter, yet still scenic . But youll need to manage a handful of moves on your way up. Made for a great hike. There is a creek, too, mind you. Why you should go: Short climb to a seasonal pool and Hohokam petroglyphs. White-knuckle curves, ghost towns, and scenic beauty abound. Similar to Battleship Mountain, navigation gets a little finicky in the river bed, so watch for cairns. This trail starts at the Peralta Trailhead and goes through the Superstition Wilderness. As other said, the parking lot fills up really fast so you will need to get there early to get a spot or just be patient and wait people come and go all the time. Our first comes from Aravaipa Ambassador Amber Fifield who regularly seeks out adventures in remote mountains and canyons across Arizona. It is flat and boring. Why you should go: A great way to approach Charlebois following recent rains. Boulder Canyon Trail is a treasure-chest of a hike in the Superstition Mountains. All rights reserved. Youll have to figure out a way around it. No snakes this time. Keep your eyes peeled during your visit, and you may even catch sight of a picturesque bighorn sheep perched atop the canyon! 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. You can see my stats and route on the Strava link here: https://www.strava.com/activities/8545950069 Scrambling, scree, and beautiful fields of saguaro cactus! Its seasonal, though, so thats why its best to go after some rain or snowmelt. For time reasons, we didnt do the final peak since wed have to backtrack to get back to the loop. But its nice and easy and the end view is beautiful. As I was climbing up the flattened rock area. If not, theres some nearby shade. This melting pot eventually grew into what archeologists now call the Salado culture. It was named the Apache Trail after the Native American Indians who originally used this trail to migrate through the Superstition Mountains for over 1,000 years. Lots of wet muddy spots throughout trail today. . Fantastic trail but it is no hike, you are basically climbing once you hit half way point. Also, the last 7 or so miles is not worth doing, as it is merely a connection between the Hieroglyphics Trail and the Flat Iron/Siphon Draw trailhead. If you're quiet, you may be able to see big horned rams/sheep that are pretty cool. Over the next century, his confidant and thousands of other determined parties have searched for the gold only to come up empty. Mostly easygoing until about the end where its straight up and through boulders. One more note about this hike the petroglyphs, otherwise known as the Master Map. The site of these glyphs can be a little challenging to find, but thats part of the adventure, right? You won't find the Lost Dutchman's gold, but you will get luminous views of Weaver's Needle, Four Peaks, Battleship Mountain and Canyon Lake. Archaeologists claim the petroglyphs date back to 900 A.D when the Hohokam people inhabited the area. Gypsum mine 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. We promise not to annoy you, but if you wish, you may unsubscribe at any time. Maps are supplied at the trailhead, making wayfinding a . 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