5 Best Hikes in the Superstition Mountains
The Superstition Mountains are home to some of the best hikes in Arizona and in this guide, we’re sharing five of the best hikes in the Superstition Mountains. Whether you’re visiting Arizona or live in Phoenix, these five trails offer jaw-dropping views, challenging climbs, and unforgettable desert scenery. We’ve hiked all of them ourselves and they’re some of our absolute favorites.
Before you head out on trail please remember to follow Leave No Trace principles. The Superstitions are wild and rugged, filled with sharp rock formations, cacti, and heat. Stay on trail, pack out your trash, and always hike prepared.
If you’re looking for even more desert trails, don’t miss our Phoenix Hiking Guide.
1. Boulder Canyon to Viewpoint
- Distance: 5 miles out and back
- Elevation Change: 1,092 ft
- Restrooms at the Trailhead: No. Across the bridge at day use area
- Trash Receptacle at Trailhead: No
- Water at the trailhead: No
- Dogs allowed: Yes
- Parking lot: Yes. Be sure to park in designated spots if you are parking across the street from the trailhead or you can park down the street at the recreation area
- Fee: Yes. Either America the Beautiful pass OR you need to purchase a Tonto National Forest Recreation Pass
Driving to the trailhead along the scenic Apache Trail (SR-88) is an adventure in itself but the views from the Boulder Canyon Trail are even better. This hike is one of the best in the Superstition Mountains if you’re looking for a challenge with high reward. From the trail, you’ll see the dramatic Superstition Wilderness stretching to the south, Canyon Lake to the north, and miles of rugged desert terrain in between.
Once you leave the lake area and head into the wilderness, things quiet down. Motorized vehicles and drones aren’t allowed, making it a peaceful escape. Boulder Canyon Trail is one of our all-time favorites for its solitude, variety, and classic Sonoran Desert scenery.
2. Hackberry Springs Loop
- Distance: 4 mile loop
- Elevation Change: 534 ft
- Restrooms at the Trailhead: Yes, vaulted toilets
- Trash Receptacle at Trailhead: No
- Water at the trailhead: No
- Dogs allowed: Yes
- Parking lot: Yes, large lot. Dirt road to get to trailhead
- Fee: No
- Depending on the time of year there could be several water crossings
Hackberry Springs is one of the best easy to moderate hikes in the Superstition Mountains. We love this trail because it takes you into the Superstition Wilderness almost immediately, with dramatic cliffs, open canyons, and towering saguaros all around.
Hike it after recent rain, and you might even catch water in the creek. It’s a refreshing getaway that feels far from the city, even though it’s just a short drive from Phoenix.
3. Peralta Trail to Fremont Saddle (Weavers Needle)
- Distance: 5 miles out and back
- Elevation Change: 1,341 ft
- Restrooms at the Trailhead: Yes, vaulted toilets
- Trash Receptacle at Trailhead: No
- Water at the trailhead: No
- Dogs allowed: Yes
- Parking lot: Yes. Dirt road to get to trailhead
- Fee: No
The hike to Fremont Saddle via Peralta Trail is one of the most popular and rewarding hikes in the Superstition Mountains. It’s also one of our all-time favorites! The trail is moderately strenuous, but it’s not overwhelming, with a steady climb through Peralta Canyon surrounded by hoodoos, towering cliffs, and iconic saguaros.
After a rain, you may even see water flowing from the spring along the way. At the top, the reward is incredible: a panoramic view of Weavers Needle, shaped by ancient volcanic activity and centuries of erosion. For an extra adventure, continue on to Lone Tree.
4.Siphon Draw to Flatiron
- Distance: 5.5 miles out and back
- Elevation Change: 2,641 ft
- Restrooms at the Trailhead: Yes at the state park
- Trash Receptacle at Trailhead: Yes at the state park
- Water at the trailhead: Yes
- Dogs allowed: Yes, but we wouldn't recommend it
- Parking lot: Yes
- Fee: Yes since this hike state in Lost Dutchman State Park
Siphon Draw to Flatiron is one of the most iconic and challenging hikes in the Superstition Mountains and a true rite of passage for Phoenix hikers. The trail starts out manageable but quickly turns into a steep, hands-and-feet scramble up the Siphon. Expect nearly vertical sections that require three points of contact as you climb over boulders and ledges.
This hike is tough on your legs, lungs, and nerves but it’s also incredibly rewarding. At the top of Flatiron, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the Phoenix metro area and the vast Tonto National Forest. Want more? Continue on to Peak 5024 for extra mileage. Be sure to bring PLENTY of water and snacks!
Check out Siphon Draw to Flatiron on AllTrails, and don’t forget to review Lost Dutchman State Park hours and entry fees before you go.
5. Treasure Loop via Jacob's Crosscut
- Distance: 3.7 mile loop
- Elevation Change: 561 ft
- Restrooms at the Trailhead: No
- Trash Receptacle at Trailhead: No
- Water at the trailhead: No
- Dogs allowed: Yes
- Parking lot: Yes, small
- Fee: No, but if you hike in the state park there is
This scenic hike offers a more mild option in the Superstition Mountains, perfect for those looking to enjoy desert views without the strenuous climbs. Starting from the base, the Superstition Mountains create a stunning backdrop the entire way. As you turn around on the loop, you’ll get panoramic views of the Sonoran Desert, layered with canyons, mountains, and even glimpses of the Salt River in the distance.
In spring, the trail comes alive with vibrant brittlebush blossoms and other desert wildflowers. This route is less challenging than others on our list but still delivers on beauty and reward.
Explore Treasure Loop via Jacob’s Crosscut Trail on AllTrails.
Plan Your Next Adventure
Looking for the right gear? Check out the hiking gear we personally use and love in these posts:
→ Our Top Gear Recommendations
Up for a bigger challenge? Don’t miss our guide to one of the toughest scrambles in the Superstition Mountains:
→ Battleship Mountain Scramble
Want to explore more?
→ Use our interactive map to browse hikes by location, or search by your favorite outdoor activity.
Check out the posts below for additional challenging hikes in the Superstitions
Superstition Ridgeline Trail: Superstition Mountains
The Superstition Ridgeline Trail in Tonto National Forest is an unofficial but popular 11.25-mile hike with challenging sections and stunning views. It’s mostly exposed, so be prepared for little shade and some tricky scrambles. Don’t forget your hiking poles for the descent and watch out for wildlife!
Peralta Trail to Canyon Lake: Superstition Wilderness Hike
Peralta Trail to Canyon Lake Trail across the Superstition Wilderness of Tonto National Forest is a 15 mile hike in one direction that uses multiple connecting trails. This hike is often completed as a point-to-point hike in a single day, requiring some logistical planning, or an overnight backpack camping hike. We completed the hike in a single day and below get into how we planned to hike and our experience traversing the stunning Superstition Wilderness.
Siphon Draw to Peak 5024: Superstition Wilderness Hiking Guide
Hike Siphon Draw to Peak 5024: Superstition Wilderness Getting to Siphon Draw Trailhead The easiest and shortest route to Peak 5024 is via the Siphon
