Between Phoenix And Globe Is Arizona's Scenic Mountain Trail With Ethereal Canyon Views And Wildlife

The Akimel O'odham people inspired the name of the Superstition Mountains with accounts of strange sounds and unexplained deaths, but for many, this element of mystery and, dare we say, magic is what sets these mountains apart. Shadow meets light in an otherworldly and tranquil volcanic landscape of hoodoos and rainbow-colored rocks illuminated by the desert sun. And there's one trail in particular where you can experience the Superstition Mountains in all their beauty. The Peralta Trail (also known as the Peralta Canyon Trail) is halfway between Phoenix and Globe. It's a popular trek thanks to its ethereal panoramic views of the mountains, Peralta Canyon, and Weaver's Needle, an imposing, 1,300-foot-tall rock formation.

Located in Tonto National Forest, the Peralta Trail is linked to a well-known legend: the treasure of the Lost Dutchman. In the 1800s, the Peraltas, a Mexican ranching family, were extracting gold in the Superstition Mountains. According to the legend, while moving their riches home, they were killed by Apaches in 1848. Jacob Waltz, aka the "Lost Dutchman" (despite being German), supposedly found this gold mine near the rock formation Weaver's Needle. Since his death in 1891, people have looked for this alleged treasure. There's even a sign on the Peralta Trail for the "Dons Club Base Camp," a reference to a group of men who hunted for it in the 1930s. 

While you likely won't find any hidden gold on the Peralta Trail, you probably will find wildlife. Lizards, tarantulas, bighorn sheep, and bobcats all roam this cactus-filled landscape. Many hike this trail at sunset, so if you do so, be aware of possible nighttime encounters with snakes, scorpions, and spiders.

There are two options for this hike. The most popular is to Fremont Saddle, a moderate 4.6-mile out-and-back route with an elevation gain of 1,341 feet. This family-friendly hike takes you through the canyon and can be done in three hours and is one of the best in the Superstitions thanks to the views from Fremont Saddle. Most turn around at Fremont Saddle, but for a longer, less-crowded hike, continue to the Dutchman's Trail for a 12.4-mile out-and-back trek.

The most popular time to hike the Peralta Trail is October through April, which avoids the scorching summer temperatures. While cooler weather is better for this hike, there may be icy patches on the trail in the winter. Springtime is especially popular because of the wildflower and cactus blooms. Water is essential for hiking safety, so bring at least 2 to 3 liters of water per person. During the warmer months, doing it as a sunrise or sunset hike is also a good option. Sunrise is a great time to photograph Weaver's Needle since the sun is behind you, but it'll be directly on you on the return. Alternatively, if you go around mid-afternoon, you can enjoy the sunset on the hike back as it creates a painted landscape across Weaver's Needle and the canyon. Just be sure to bring a headlamp if you're going at sunset. 

It's free to visit and park at the Peralta Trailhead. The parking lot is located at the end of a few miles of a dirt road that's accessible with most cars. The Peralta Trail is about an hour from Phoenix and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). It's an hour and 10 minutes from Globe, Arizona's unexpected getaway with majestic mountain views. For more desert landscapes and local legends, head to the nearby hiker's paradise of Lost Dutchman State Park.