Ecosystem 03 of 05
A shattered volcanic range holding Arizona’s most durable legend.
The Superstitions are the wreckage of an enormous volcanic collapse roughly 25 million years ago, and they have been eroding into spires, canyons, and cliffs ever since. The rock is welded volcanic tuff, which weathers into the hoodoos and pinnacles that make the range look impossible from the highway. It is Sonoran Desert vegetation on brutally steep, unforgiving terrain.
Field note
These peaks hold the legend of the Lost Dutchman's Gold Mine, which has drawn prospects and treasure hunters for over 130 years.
Plant life
Grows here on slopes so steep it seems impossible. Frost sensitivity is what keeps it below about 4,000 feet.
Its fruit never drops, instead hanging in growing chains year after year until the branch bends under the weight.
Blankets these slopes in yellow every spring. Its resin was burned as incense in mission churches.
Blooms nearly year-round given any moisture at all, and its woolly gray leaves reflect sunlight to stay cool.
Wildlife
Hooves with soft concave centers grip bare rock like rubber. Scan the cliff bands above Siphon Draw at dawn.
Excavates the nest cavities in saguaros that later shelter owls, flycatchers, and kestrels.
Heat-sensing pits let it hunt in total darkness. It rattles as a warning and would much rather be left alone.
Rides thermals off the sun-heated cliffs for hours. Its eyesight is roughly eight times sharper than yours.
Where to go
Lost Dutchman State ParkThe main gateway, sitting directly beneath the Superstition escarpment. Camping, clean facilities, and trails for every level.Arizona State Parks1 hr eastPer-vehicle day-use fee
Superstition WildernessAbout 160,200 acres with no roads, no water, and no cell service. This is where the serious mileage is.Tonto National Forest1 hr – 1 hr 30 min eastFree; some trailheads charge parking
Peralta TrailheadThe access point for the range’s most rewarding day hike. The last stretch of Peralta Road is graded dirt.Tonto National Forest1 hr 15 min eastFree; lot fills at dawn
Tonto National MonumentSalado cliff dwellings built into a natural alcove around 1300 CE, overlooking Roosevelt Lake.National Park Service2 hr eastPark entrance feeTrails to hike
Treasure Loop TrailEasyThe introduction to the range. Climbs into the boulder fields under the cliffs and is spectacular during a brittlebush spring.2.4 mi loop500 ft gainLost Dutchman State Park
Peralta Trail to Fremont SaddleModerateThe classic. A steady canyon climb ending at the definitive view of Weaver’s Needle. Best hike in the range for the effort.4.6 mi round trip1,400 ft gainSuperstition Wilderness
Hieroglyphic TrailModerateEnds at a panel of Hohokam petroglyphs above seasonal pools. Look, photograph, and never touch the rock.2.8 mi round trip600 ft gainSuperstition Wilderness
Siphon Draw TrailModerateUp a smooth rock chute called the Basin. A fine turnaround point for anyone not attempting the Flatiron.4 mi round trip1,100 ft gainLost Dutchman State Park
Flatiron via Siphon DrawStrenuousUnmaintained above the Basin, with Class 3 to 4 scrambling on loose rock. One of the hardest day hikes in the state, and a frequent rescue site.5.8 mi round trip2,600 ft gainLost Dutchman State ParkSeason by season
March – May
Brittlebush turns the whole range gold.
June – August
The most dangerous hiking season in Arizona.
September – November
Heat finally releases its grip.
December – February
The right time for the hardest routes.
Expanded facts