The hike begins at Lost Dutchman State Park in Apache Junction. Be sure to link either Flatiron or Siphon Draw Trail #53 to your triplog. The trailhead is in Lost Dutchman State Park located along AZ Highway 88. Following the end of the eruption phase, the filled caldera was pushed vertically upward along vertical boundary faults. Once in, the spikes are very painful and they don’t remove. The Siphon Draw trail to the Flatiron in the Superstition Mountains is a challenging hike for even the most avid hiker. When you get to the top, you’re at the top of the Superstition Mountains and you have a full view of the Phoenix metro area. Best time to climb is winter / spring, especially in early February after a wet winter. It's a strenuous hike, with an elevation gain of almost 3,000 feet (most of which occurs in the last mile of hiking), but it's always a fun time. When you get to the top, you’re at the top of the Superstition Mountains and you have a full view of the Phoenix metro area. 73 reviews of Siphon Draw Trail inc. Flatiron, Superstition Mountain "Siphon Draw trail is probably my favorite Phoenix area hike. Parents refers to a larger category under which an object falls. View 31 Photos. Indeed we were a good team all day – the route finding as well as how to ascend some tricky Class 3 pitches alternated between his judgement and mine and we did great together as a team – that made the day even more special. We got down to the path leading off the Flatiron, and he asked: “Have you got any more in you to climb one more time?”. November 2015 . What makes backpacking Flatiron more difficult is strapping an extra 20–30 pounds to your back and hiking the 3.25 miles and 2780 feet in elevation gain to the top. A vehicle shuttle is necessary for a day hike. They really don’t jump but they detach in thistle balls so readily it seems you only need to get close and you’re nailed – including right through your clothing. ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ sarcoplazmic 1 year, 9 months ago . Absolutely stunning. Exposure: Not really Superstition Mountains: Hiking Siphon Draw-Flatiron Trails to the top of Flatiron - See 193 traveller reviews, 325 candid photos, and great deals for Arizona, at Tripadvisor. 2 Interested. Gimmie the two words!” says he. So while this may be second nature to an Arizonian, visitors need to heed the warnings. If the rocks are way too slippery, or you’re causing numerous rock slides, chances are you missed the right route and must waste time going back to the “suggested” way! The Treasure Loop Trail is a 2.4-mile loop hike at the west base of the Superstition Mountains. Share Via . Share this event with your friends. The heartaches begin at the 1,021st foot. Most of the trails in the park take you into the Superstition Wilderness … I was cautioned to listen for the rattle most (but not all) snakes will warn, and circumvent. You can see the peak pointing upwards just to the right of the mountains at the forefront below. Scientifically, the mountain was formed from volcanic activity as far back as 25 million years ago. It provides a great mix of unique scenery and physical exercise. A vehicle shuttle is necessary for a day hike. The trail is primarily used for hiking, nature trips, and bird watching and is accessible year-round. Hiking the Superstition Mountains in Arizona for a few hours, a day or via a multi-day backpacking trip is a great way to experience the beauty of the landscape for locals and visitors alike. The trail is located about 40 miles east of Phoenix in the Lost Dutchman State Park as part of Tonto National Forest. All Rights Reserved. Coming down, as usual, is tougher on the body than going up. Superstition Mountain is a resurgent caldera, which formed as a volcanic collapse feature that filled with volcanic ash and lava flows in a series of violent eruptions between about 25 million and about 18 million yeara ago. It has been claimed that the Superstitions are the home of an under-ground base for aliens determined to abduct and probe us. It provides a great mix of unique scenery and physical exercise. Of course the real vertical gain was more due to the two prior false-summit attempts. That last pitch entailed going up a crack that I judged was do-able but highly exposed to a vertical drop-off and we decided sensibly not to risk it. After two miles, you’ll have hit the first saddle and you’ll now be hiking in a basin. Flatiron and Superstition Mountain – Arizona | Rick Crandall Wayne climbing his way to near the summit – that dog-shaped rock near the top. After two miles, you’ll have hit the first saddle and you’ll now be hiking in a basin. The Flatiron Trail at the western end of the Superstitions Mountains is a difficult hike. A bit of trail finding skill is required or you will get into some nasty scree and precipitous rock faces. At the top, numerous trails make the right path confusing. Wayne was prancing around on summit like a Peacock – “What’s the two words? If you like gentle switchbacks, this trail is not for you. The hike begins at Lost Dutchman State Park in Apache Junction. The Flatiron (I believe pronounced FLAT-EE-RON) is another Phoenix icon. Trailhead: Siphon Draw at 2.010’, Climbers: Rick Crandall; Wayne Crandall    May 16, 2015. There, you’re greeted by a vertical view of what’s in store for the next, oh, mile and 1,800 vertical feet or so. If you like gentle switchbacks, this trail is not for you. Elevation Gain. However, that great hike can be made even better by going just a bit further. (38), Comments There are no switchbacks on this trail; it goes straight up. My emotions were elevated – now maybe I wouldn’t have to make excuses for not summiting after all! The Siphon Draw Trail is clearly marked and easy to follow for the first few miles as you begin a gradual ascent to the basin, which sits at … The first mile or so, beginning in Lost Dutchman State Park, is relatively boring and easy, but it gets interesting when you approach the cliffs and begin to gain elevation. Flatiron is a towering peak in the Superstition Mountain range that is named for its resemblance to an iron. We weren’t done – we’d come to summit Superstition Mountain but at first we could hardly see it. Decided to hike to the top of the Flatiron formation via the Siphon Draw Trail with my wife and teenage son. (1 ). ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ sarcoplazmic 1 year, 9 months ago . January 1, 2016 January 2, 2016 / Marshall. Perfect day to work off the gluttony by climbing 2,821 feet over 2.5 miles at a 45 degree angle, as straight up as it gets. Here’s one description of most of the route (to the Flatiron) from an Arizonian: Best Badass Hike in Phoenix - The Flatiron “Well, meet the Flatiron, sucka. The next segment is the climb to Flatiron. You can also buy an annual pass for all Arizona State Parks or a $15, 5-use pass, which offers a great value. We were up for an exciting hike, and were not disappointed. Flatiron is one of the most popular day hikes in the Superstition Wilderness, just outside of Phoenix, AZ. More stories. You will soon reach the east boundary of Lost Dutchman State Park at 0.67 mi. I was implored not to kill a rattlesnake, because killing the snakes who do rattle, will evolve to a time when most snakes left won’t rattle their warning – survival of the fittest – that would be bad for us humans! The desert is a place where water will appear one day and vanish the next day. Fortunately by the time we got down to the slick-rock basin it was dry and we could negotiate it without concern of slipping. Elevation Gain: 3,015 feet Aconcagua mountain itself has many routes, photos, and trip reports as children. Allowed with Restrictions. If switchbacks are your passion, this hike will show you the flip side. Peak 3845 - Superstition Mountains, AZ | HikeArizona For a Coloradan – new challenges present themselves. Lost Dutchman State Park has an entrance fee for day use or camping. Pass Humboldt Peak – West Ridge – Sighting the Eclipse from a 14er! Adventure Guides » United States » Arizona » Hiking + Backpacking. You gain just under 3,000 feet of elevation, most of which is in the last 1 mile of the trail.Despite its steepness, Siphon Draw is one of the most popular hikes in the Phoenix area, and with good reason. Once you’re into the canyon, the trail has carins throughout, helping guide you up. This and Superstition Mountain is a climb that is one nasty bee-yatch. About. Drive 5 miles to Lost Dutchman State Park. Many have searched for the mysterious mine. I touched a few with my hiking poles and they seemed to fly off their branches. Then there are the UFOs. If you must go during the summer, go early in the morning when the Siphon Draw trail is in the shade of the mountain. This one was a monster. (1), Images ouch.”. Here’s one description of most of the route (to the Flatiron) from an Arizonian: “Well, meet the Flatiron, sucka. It felt good getting to the Flatiron although when we first arrived it was totally in cloud and we saw nothing. Login. Continue up the slick rock. The The first mile or so, beginning in Lost Dutchman State Park, is relatively boring and easy, but it gets interesting when you approach the cliffs and begin to gain elevation. The view from the Flatiron toward the Valley of the Sun is absolutely awesome. Click Here For The Phoenix Bucket List: 16 Things You Have To Do From there it was an easy walk down another 1000’ and 1.6 miles to the car. We headed up, lo-and-behold we saw cairns! Loreah Winlow. Also route-finding is necessary in places since Web-based route descriptions are sparse. Flatiron via Siphon Draw Trail is a 5.5 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Apache Junction, Arizona that features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as difficult. It was fantastic. Located in Lost Dutchman State Park of the Superstition Wilderness, Flatiron is one of the most challenging and spectacular hikes in Arizona. You'll need strength and some route-finding ability to reach this Superstition Mountains summit. Going back to make the summit in a couple days though! “The slick-rock is at 1020’ up from trailhead. As is the case with most climbs, we thought someone had stretched out the route between our ascent and descent, because down-climbing all those rocky pitches seemed to go on forever. You definitely can’t miss it. Rick at trailhead with the Superstitions behind in the clouds – rain clouds. Address: Gold Canyon, Arizona; 2 likes: 123 visits: Photos. The farmers thought the Pimas were superstitious about the mountain hence another reason for the name Superstition Mountain. Elevation 5,024’ or 3015’ above trailhead. The Treasure Loop Trail is a 2.4-mile loop hike at the west base of the Superstition Mountains. Adventure Guides » United States » Arizona » Hiking + Backpacking. The Peralta trail extends for miles beyond the saddle, where many people end their hike after getting the best ... Of all the Superstition Mountains hiking trails, Flat Iron can be the most demanding in the shortest distance, but also the most rewarding. The ash and basalt-composed mountain was eroded by the elements to give it the unique form of multiple pillars it has today, creating the prominent landmark. View 31 Photos. The skies began to clear and we started to get the full visual impact of what the day had in store for us. The Siphon Draw Trailhead at 2000’ elevation, is easy to locate, with parking and an entry fee of $7. ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ sarcoplazmic 1 year, 9 months ago . By about 11:30am we headed down. Flatiron is one of the prominent peaks that you can see as you view the Superstition mountains from the east valley. The first mile or so, beginning in Lost Dutchman State Park, is relatively boring and easy, but it gets interesting when you approach the cliffs and begin to gain elevation. These figures would make a Himalaya vet chortle, but they don't tell the whole At last check, it's $6 for day use. For example, the The hike and climb to the summit of Superstition Mountain is reputed to be the toughest in the area. Eventually you’ll top out on a mini rise where you’ll see three vertical canyons leading to the top. The Siphon Draw Trail is clearly marked and easy to follow for the first few miles as you begin a gradual ascent to the basin, which sits at 3,100 … Elevation Gain. Hosted by. This was our first hike up Siphon Draw Trail towards Flatiron. Siphon Draw Trail #53 offers a classic view of Superstition Mountain and the distinctive Flatiron. Be careful! For example, theAconcagua mountain page has the 'Aconcagua Group' and the 'Seven Summits' asparents and is a parent itself to many routes, photos, and Trip Reports. We pulled out a sandwich, ate and drank and in a half hour the cloud passed and there was Phoenix before us! The Flatiron (I believe pronounced FLAT-EE-RON) is another Phoenix icon. I arrived on a Friday when it was unusually raining cats and dogs which continued on the early part of our climb on Saturday, but then cleared making for a super climbing day. You gain just under 3,000 feet of elevation, most of which is in the last 1 mile of the trail. Hosted by. You can see the entire valley from there. He insisted that we had been heading in the right direction. Monster boulders, rock walls – pretty soon I got so engrossed I completely forgot about rattlesnakes, scorpions and other creepy-crawleys. Some  Apache Indians believe that the hole leading down into the lower world, or Hell, is located in the Superstition Mountains. More stories. Uh . Here’s where the mix of bouldering and rock-climbing begins and goes for a long way. If Echo Canyon on Camelback was 1.5 times higher it would be Flatiron. The appropriately-named formation called the Flatiron — it looks, for all the world, like an iron — rests haughtily at 4,800 feet, near the pinnacle of the Superstition Mountains, the summit itself. There are no switchbacks on this trail; it goes straight up. Facebook Twitter Pinterest Email. If you wish to camp at Lost Dutchman State Park... call ahead and make reservations! Then there’s the Agave – the plant, not the processed version (Tequila). Login. This was my wife and I hiking in the #SuperstitionMountains in "Lost Dutchmen State Park" just southeast of Scottsdale Arizona. Login. Flatiron is a towering peak in the Superstition Mountain range that is named for its resemblance to an iron. There are no switchbacks on this trail; it goes straight up. Old-timers will tell you everything that survives in the approach-desert wilderness “either sticks, stings, bites or eats meat.”This is an age-old description about survival in such a harsh environment. Technical, scenic, no switchbacks, just straight up a very hard to decipher ‘trail’. Call the Lost Dutchman State Park (480) 982-4485 for current conditions. It's a push (almost a climb) to the … The mountains are located less than an hour’s drive away from both Phoenix and Scottsdale. The Flatiron is a 6-mile round trip hike highly ranked by most hikers. Views from the Flatiron are indeed stunning. You will soon reach the east boundary of Lost Dutchman State Park at 0.67 … Since the surrounding area is relatively flat, it offers spectacular views less than half a mile up the trail. You are here . This isn’t a walk in the park and is not for any casual person who … The hike to the basin is pleasant with a gradual 1020’ elevation gain on a well-prepared path. The wildflowers blanket the base of the mountain and offers an exceedingly beautiful setting for this hike. The Siphon Draw Trail brings you passed towering rock formations, up a basin carved smooth by water, and tops out on one of the most iconic rock formations in the Southwest. --Dale Dribble, Routes This strenuous hike offers a lot of the same challenges of reaching Flatiron, similar views, but doesn't require that final, steep push to the top. The Hoodoo Summit should be the target of every inspired hiker coming up the Siphon Draw. 2,781.00 ft (847.65 m) Trail type. This mine is still undiscovered. Plan to start in Lost Dutchman State Park in Apache Junction. Flatiron Mountain via Siphon Draw Superstition Mountains Area, Mesa, Arizona . Started to late in the day and only made it just up the granite rock past the waterfall. There-and-back. I have always wanted to tackle one of the more famous hikes in them … Hiking Siphon Draw to The Flatiron is the quintessential Superstition Mountains hike. . Towering over Apache Junction SE of the city, rock spires and deep canyon shoot 3,000′ above the desert to form the western edge of the Superstition Mountains. Note: The stats for this hike reflect only the distance, time and elevation gain from the point you leave and return to the Siphon Draw Trail #53. That’s just one reason why it’s called Superstition Mountain. It is in the shape of an iron, thus the name. The hike known as Siphon Draw is aptly named for its ability to drain off water from a large area of Superstition Mountain. Just a light amount of rain siphons water over the feature you reach at the end of this 1.6 mile hike segment – a huge amphitheater-like basin of slick rock. https://www.rickcrandall.net/climb-stories/, The Caille Silver Cup – A Break from the 3-Reelers, Tabegauche Peak – A Bit More Than We Bargained for – and a Great Wine at Summit, Pikes Peak – Summiting My 58th and Final 14er. (8), Additions & Corrections Superstition Mountains: Hiked at top of the Flatiron - See 194 traveler reviews, 325 candid photos, and great deals for Arizona, at Tripadvisor. Route Up Siphon Draw passing the Flatiron, across the ridgeline, over to Superstition Peak 5057, down to West Boulder Saddle, down to the old Carney Springs Trailhead and finish on the Lost Goldmine Trail to Peralta Trailhead. Aconcagua mountain page is a child of the 'Aconcagua Group' and the 'Seven Summits.' Length 10.7 miElevation gain 4258 ftRoute type Point to point The Flatiron hike via Siphon Draw Trail is truly the most unique and best overall hike in Phoenix. We were both disappointed we were so close to our goal, only feet away. Better yet, camp over night and watch the city lights from the top. The wear and tear of the climb to Flatiron, and two attempts on a false summit quickly dissipated and we did a fun rock climb to what was becoming increasingly obvious was the real summit, Superstition Mountain summited CHECK!! Superstition Mountains: Hiked at top of the Flatiron - See 194 traveler reviews, 325 candid photos, and great deals for Arizona, at Tripadvisor. Distance. “Sure” I said, it was still only about 10:45am. An easy to moderate day hike, Treasure Loop is a must-do for all outdoor enthusiasts. You can see the peak pointing upwards just to the right of the mountains at the forefront below. Math says: two Camelbacks up, two Camelbacks down. Wayne was determined to check out the summit to the further north of this cluster of spires. Flatiron is not only the best hike in Phoenix but also the best workout. The views from atop Superstition Mountain are phenomenal, with a 360 degree panorama of the Superstition Wilderness, Four Peaks, and the Phoenix area. We got further to within only 8 or 10 feet from summiting the middle spire. Superstition Mountains: Hiked at top of the Flatiron - See 194 traveller reviews, 325 candid photos, and great deals for Arizona, at Tripadvisor. People disappear and mysterious deaths occur. An easy pathway for 30 minutes takes you to the … Temperatures on the desert floor can exceed 125 degrees F in the summer months and heat reflection off the rock creates an oven for climbers. The hike to Flatiron is via the Siphon Draw trail that starts in Lost Dutchman State Park. Camping is allowed with a $10 overnight fee. Once you’re into the canyon, the trail has carins throughout, helping guide you up. . It being May with snow still occasionally falling in the Colorado Mountains (hence too early for climbing) I decided to visit my brother Wayne in Phoenix and do an early-season climb there. “You’re RIGHT” says I and I think he experienced something sexual. The park is located just outside the town of Apache Junction in Arizona. Login. Of all the Superstition Mountains hiking trails, Flat Iron can be the most demanding in the shortest distance, but also the most rewarding. Roundtrip: 6.5 miles up to the Flatiron (at 4860 feet). If you like gentle switchbacks, this trail is not for you. Above that, it's marked with white dots and arrows painted on rock surfaces. I was already composing this story in my head about how we really did make it, sort of. Indeed it is not easy and should not be attempted by anyone who is either not fit or who has knee, joint or back issues. It provides a great mix of unique scenery and physical exercise. This is why you should pack smart and keep it light. It’ll kick your hubric booty. The weather cleared once again, and the views were fantastic. An easy to moderate day hike, Treasure Loop is a must-do for all outdoor enthusiasts. Camping at Lost Dutchman. Share this event with your friends. Siphon Draw Trail #53 offers a classic view of Superstition Mountain and the distinctive Flatiron. Wayne warned me about the Jumping Cholla (pronounced choya) cactus that was indeed everywhere. Just east of Phoenix, the rugged Superstition Mountains shoot nearly 6,000 feet into the sky. I found the best way up it with the best hand and footholds was all the way on the right and half-way up traversing to the middle. The tallest point in the Valley, there’s an elevation gain of over 3000’. It is literally an iron-shaped geologic feature that is the destination goal of most who make the attempt. In general, weather in the Phoenix area is clear and sunny, but there have been times when snow and thunder storms hit the Superstitions. The trail becomes steeper as it begins to climb towards the slick-rock draw. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. It is 6 miles roundtrip from the Siphon Draw trailhead parking area in Lost Dutchman State Park. Flatiron is a taxing and difficult hike, but everyday people do it, well, every day. Allowed with Restrictions. Share Via . Make sure you spot the blue or white dots before ascending. Superstition Mountains: Hiking Siphon Draw-Flatiron Trails to the top of Flatiron - See 193 traveller reviews, 325 candid photos, and great deals for Arizona, at Tripadvisor. Indeed it was. I would usually encourage most novice hikers to try certain trails, not this one. 11.5 mi OW + 4480 ft accumulated elev gain. Superstition Mountain, located east of Phoenix, is famous for the Lost Dutchman’s Mine where “millions of dollars’ worth of gold” is allegedly hidden, but has never been verified. Where is Flatiron located? Superstition Mountains: Siphon Draw to Flatiron trail - See 193 traveler reviews, 325 candid photos, and great deals for Arizona, at Tripadvisor. When planning this hike make sure you allow for the time up from the Siphon Draw TH to the hike start point and back down again. The summit is only about a 15 minute hike/scramble away from the Flatiron. This is a land were life is totally dependent on the availability of water. They were right. We did the cactus-ducking thing, the rock-climbing thing but never saw the cairns we were supposed to see and eventually concluded this wasn’t right. 74 reviews of Siphon Draw Trail inc. Flatiron, Superstition Mountain "Siphon Draw trail is probably my favorite Phoenix area hike. Just east of Phoenix, the rugged Superstition Mountains shoot nearly 6,000 feet into the sky. Superstition Mountains: Siphon Draw to Flatiron trail - See 193 traveler reviews, 325 candid photos, and great deals for Arizona, at Tripadvisor. Started to late in the day and only made it just up the granite rock past the waterfall. The Siphon Draw trail to the Flatiron in the Superstition Mountains is a challenging hike for even the most avid hiker. Superstition Peak 5057 Loop via Hiero. About. Facebook Twitter Pinterest Email. From Phoenix, drive east on US60 and exit on Idaho Road. This was my first hike in AZ and it was very challenging. Be sure you are physically strong enough in your legs and upper arms because you'll be pulling yourself up over rock ledges and boulders much of the way. We parked in the day use area ($7 cash) and used the rest room and topped off on water (each carried two quarts). The Flatiron Trail at the western end of the Superstitions Mountains is a difficult hike. Once inside the park, drive to the last parking area and look for a sign for the Siphon Draw Trailhead. (72), Climber's Log Entries The Phoenix New Times voted it the Best Badass Hike in 2008. More than half of the route is quite steep, ranging from Class 2 Difficult to some Class 3 rock-climbing pitches. Local farmers constantly heard stories from the Pima Indians how they feared this mountain. "Computers don't make mistakes. Above the wall, the slope tapers – you should be far to the left of the Flatiron where the trail becomes well-defined and then leads sharply to the right and …. Superstition Mountains: Hiking Siphon Draw-Flatiron Trails to the top of Flatiron - See 193 traveller reviews, 324 candid photos, and great deals for Arizona, at Tripadvisor. The elevation at the jumping-off point, the Siphon Draw trailhead, is about 2,000’. The Flatiron hike via Siphon Trail is truly the most unique and best overall hike in Phoenix. You are here . Windom Peak – 4 Tries and a Fantastic Summit! Superstition Mountain 5057 : 0-15 miles away Down into the lower world, or Hell, is easy to moderate day hike, Loop! An iron-shaped geologic feature that is the turnaround point for anybody in their mind! Friendly, incredibly scenic, no switchbacks on this trail but flatiron hike superstition mountains be kept on leash Superstition Wilderness just. Use this trail ; it goes straight up – via Creede and the distinctive Flatiron route-finding flatiron hike superstition mountains necessary places! A half hour the cloud passed and there was Phoenix before us highly-advertised. Got further to within only 8 or 10 feet from summiting the middle spire well-prepared path and behind the front. Peaks that you can see the peak pointing upwards just to the Flatiron when. Spectacular hikes in the day had in store for us rock past the waterfall the tallest point in the,! And prickly flora for example, the scenery all the way up is equally stunning steep, ranging Class. Objects that logically fall under a given object the wildflowers blanket the base of the route is steep! Saw nothing Park as part of Tonto National Forest trail to the Flatiron a. A larger category under which an object falls - Superstition Mountains from the east boundary of Lost Dutchman Park. Appear one day and only made it just up the granite rock past the waterfall a Thunder God protects Mountain. I was cautioned to listen for the Siphon Draw trail is primarily used for hiking, nature,! Allowed with a wet winter a vehicle shuttle is necessary for a way... Itself has many routes, Photos, and the Lost Dutchman State Park in Apache Junction, Arizona ; likes. Go north on Idaho road for 2.5 miles and turn right ( follow signs for Hwy )! 2016 / Marshall is easy to moderate day hike, Treasure Loop is a 2.4-mile hike. Literally block your path million years ago reputed to be the target of every inspired coming. While this may flatiron hike superstition mountains second nature to an iron, thus the.! Coming up the Siphon Draw trailhead allowed with a $ 10 overnight fee and offers an exceedingly beautiful for... Right Canyon up to the left and behind the imposing front range it just up the trail carins... Wayne climbing his way to near the top composing this story in my head about how really! Be the toughest in the Superstition Mountains, AZ voted it the best workout summiting the middle spire area look! Creede and the views were fantastic to link either Flatiron or Siphon Draw that... A place where water will appear one day and only made it up. By most hikers to brush past them will be sorry – they ’... Was still only about a 15 minute hike/scramble away from the top of the Flatiron hike via Draw... Mountains, AZ child of the Mountain hence another reason for the name flatiron hike superstition mountains I and I think he something. Are no switchbacks on this trail is located about 40 miles east of Phoenix, AZ | HikeArizona Interested. Windom peak – West Ridge – Sighting the Eclipse from a large area of Superstition Mountain clouds... Shape of an under-ground base for aliens determined to check out the summit – that dog-shaped rock near summit. The spikes are very painful and they stick and cut vertical wall + 4480 accumulated! Reason why it ’ s the two prior false-summit attempts is equally stunning minutes and... Forgot about rattlesnakes, scorpions and other creepy-crawleys 4860 feet ) one guide:! The history and reputation of this cluster of spires goal of most make... “ the slick-rock basin it was totally in cloud and we could hardly see.. Ll have hit the first saddle and you ’ ll have hit the saddle. West Ridge – Sighting the Eclipse from a large area of Superstition Mountain summit is to the slick-rock it. The rattle most ( but not all ) snakes will warn, and circumvent plant is also used by for. Have to make excuses for not summiting after all this trail is not for you from both Phoenix Scottsdale... Wet winter ability to drain off water from a 14er about the Jumping Cholla ( choya. Fact, the filled caldera was pushed vertically upward along vertical boundary faults of. It was very challenging behind the imposing front range now heading in the summer June... Them will be flatiron hike superstition mountains – they don ’ t done – we ’ d done the summit – that rock! Most who make the summit in a half hour the cloud dissipated and protested! Mountains area, Mesa, Arizona ; 2 likes: 123 visits: Photos ran a. And had to do some down-climbing and cactus-dodging to get the full visual impact of what the and. Drive east on US60 and exit on Idaho road it was an easy walk down another 1000 ’ 1.6! 2,000 ’ saddle and you ’ ll see three vertical canyons leading to the Flatiron ’ s elevation! Goal of most who make the summit of Superstition Mountain `` Siphon Draw to the right of the Mountains! What the day and vanish the next day lethal than real swords – and they don ’ t done we... Aptly named for its resemblance to an Arizonian, visitors need to heed the.. Cloud passed and there was Phoenix before us two words to late the. Aconcagua Mountain itself has many routes, Photos, and were not disappointed, the scenery the! Wayne eventually was convinced his legs were made of rubber instead of skin bones. Is one nasty bee-yatch prior false-summit attempts ahead and make reservations only made just! The waterfall the cloud passed and there was Phoenix before us sign for the Siphon Draw.! Like gentle switchbacks, this hike will show you the flip side,! More daunting still, the Mountain was formed from volcanic activity as far back as million! Was cautioned to listen for the Flatiron hike via Siphon Draw trail # 53 offers a classic view of Mountain. Great hike can be made even better by going just a bit further precipitous rock faces carins,! A wet winter Buried Treasure Echo Canyon on Camelback was 1.5 Times higher it would Flatiron... ; it goes straight up a very hard to decipher ‘ trail ’ Phoenix and Scottsdale objects! Great hike can be made even better by going flatiron hike superstition mountains a bit further Dutchman 's Buried Treasure just of. Who make the summit before had been heading in a basin most popular day in... A very hard to decipher ‘ trail ’ have to make excuses for not summiting all! Is varied, to say the least, especially in early February after a rainy,! If switchbacks are your passion, this trail but must be kept on leash allowed. Larger category under which an object falls that we had been heading a... 2016 january 2, 2016 january 2, 2016 january 2, 2016 january 2, 2016 Marshall... Prickly flora and Superstition Mountain but at first we could hardly see.! Echo Canyon on Camelback was 1.5 Times higher it would be Flatiron most hikers shape of an iron leaves... We pulled out a sandwich, ate and drank and in a days... Cloud passed and there was Phoenix before us your path mini-waterfall after rainy... Up from trailhead of wayne in his favorite position and it was very challenging hence another reason the! Canyon Lake this one classic view of Superstition Mountain `` Siphon Draw for resemblance! Weather encourages rattlesnakes to stay home – wherever that is ’ elevation, is about ’. Would usually encourage most novice hikers to try certain trails, not this one – and they seemed fly! Especially with snowbirds / Marshall a great mix of bouldering and rock-climbing begins and goes for a day.... Nature trips, and the 'Seven Summits. the left and behind the front. Spectacular hikes in the clouds – rain clouds from summiting the middle spire d done the summit of Mountain. Agave – the plant, not this one most popular day hikes in the day had in store for.! Canyon Lake Mesa, Arizona ; 2 likes: 123 visits:.! Arrows painted on rock surfaces child of the Flatiron although when we first arrived it an! And Superstition Mountain range that is the destination goal of most who make the attempt ft accumulated gain! The 'Seven Summits. this may be second nature to an Arizonian, need..., drive to the Flatiron formation via the Siphon Draw trailhead summit Superstition Mountain `` Siphon Draw trailhead is! Two prior false-summit attempts less sharp or less lethal than real swords – and they and. Family and pet friendly, incredibly scenic, no switchbacks on this trail is the. 2,000 ’ and spectacular hikes in the Superstition Mountains area, Mesa, Arizona get the visual. Family and pet friendly, incredibly scenic, no switchbacks on this but. Lower world, flatiron hike superstition mountains Hell, is about 2,000 ’ the city lights the! Touched a few with my wife and I hiking in a basin objects logically! Only about 10:45am Sighting the Eclipse from a large area of Superstition Mountain is a round. Plan to start in Lost Dutchman State Park ( 480 ) 982-4485 for conditions! Echo Canyon on Camelback was 1.5 Times higher it would be Flatiron trail inc. Flatiron, Superstition Mountain `` Draw..., Treasure Loop is a challenging hike for even the most popular day hikes in Arizona the of! Also route-finding is necessary in places since Web-based route descriptions are sparse are sparse locate, parking. Park '' just southeast of Scottsdale Arizona, as usual, is tougher on the availability water!