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Near Apache Junction
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The Superstition Wilderness
Overview: The western portion of the wilderness is Sonoran Desert with succulents, mesquite and palo verde. Higher up, semidesert grasses and shrubs prevail. Still higher, thick chaparral acts as a barrier, while on its peaks, ponderosa pines stand tall.
Tales of vast riches lost in the Superstitions were spurred by a German itinerant miner, Jacob Waltz, who wondered out of the wilderness with bags of highly-assayed gold. He died soon thereafter, leaving behind the legend of the "Lost Dutchman's Mine," which remains lost to this day.
The real treasure of the Superstition Wilderness is its timeless topography, colossal vistas, and the inspiring silence that meets you head-on as you experience one of its most remote trails.
Click for Trailhead Information
Click for Superstition Trails
Without a Trace
To preserve the primeval character of this wilderness, visitors are urged to practice the "no-trace" technique of incursion. When nature calls, select a spot well away from water or dry wash. Water sources are limited and must be protected. Dig a hole 4-6 inches deep. Bury all waste and paper. Pack out all trash, do not bury it, as animals will dig it up after you leave. Cigarette butts are litter, too!
Notorious
A well-known feature of this wilderness is "Weaver's Needle," a 4,553-foot volcanic plug jutting skyward like a frozen fountain. Superstition Mountain, clearly visible from the city of Apache Junction, is regularly captured on film and canvas.
Permits
Permits are not required for individual visits. For fire restrictions, trail information or in-depth maps,
contact the Tonto National Forest, Mesa Ranger District at 480-610-3300.
Permits are not required for individual visits. For fire restrictions, trail information or in-depth maps,
contact the Tonto National Forest, Mesa Ranger District at 480-610-3300.
www.fs.fed.us/r3/tonto
Lost in Paradise
For friends that have gone missing in the wilderness contact the Sheriff's Office at 800-352-4553.
For friends that have gone missing in the wilderness contact the Sheriff's Office at 800-352-4553.
ALWAYS make others aware of your itinerary!
LEAVE NOTHING BUT FOOTPRINTS!
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