The Superstitions Promised Gold — the Desert Had Other Plans

HOW TO GET THERE

This trail starts along the south-facing portion of the Superstition Wilderness. From Phoenix, take the US-60 east past Apache Junction to the Peralta Rd exit, head north for a little over seven miles (about 20 minutes) before you see a few different parking lots. The Peralta trailhead is at the last parking lot, so park as close as you can here; a sedan drives just fine on this road.

A DEBRIEF

The Peralta Trail is moderately easy; however, I have seen many struggle during the ascent on a summer day. It is a gradual climb with a solid push or two, but it is well maintained and not especially technical. The trail begins by winding through supple desert trees that make you think, there must be water nearby. During wetter seasons, you may notice shallow pools or small trickles seeping from the mountainside. As you reach higher elevations, the canyon opens up, the trees thin out, and you become surrounded by iconic Sonoran Desert cacti and vegetation. Be sure to look back—it’s a jaw-dropping view.

Desert note: The light out here is intense year-round. I always hike with reliable sun protection—especially eyewear—since there is very little shade on the ascent. I’ve been wearing Quay sunglasses on hikes like this for solid UV protection without worrying about damaging expensive lenses.

There are many rock formations to admire along the trail, from looming hoodoo towers to your left to bulbous layers of yellow volcanic ash rising high on your right. As you continue to ascend, a flat orange-and-white rock face appears in the distance, growing larger with each step. It feels undeniably sacred, and trekking here often makes me feel transported to another planet.

Animal encounters are possible along this route, and I’ve crossed paths with birds, lizards, tarantulas, and skunks here over the years. My most memorable experience was watching a family of desert bighorn sheep descend the canyon with ease. Seeing the alpha ram guide the group — and a lamb keeping pace — created a special memory.

Ironically, I recall this being a memorably sad hike as well. It was November and earlier that year the Sawtooth Fire burned nearly 25,000 acres of land around the Superstition Wilderness. Before reaching Fremont Saddle, we could already see the extent of the fire. The scene was chilling, yet part of the continuous cycle of nature maintaining balance.

If you did not already know, there is a long history of myth surrounding this area. Stories of lost gold, failed expeditions, and obsession have lingered here for generations. Tales revolve around claims that gold was hidden in the shadow cast by Weaver’s Needle, luring fortune seekers deep into the wilderness in search of something that may never have existed. The name Peralta —translated from Spanish as “high rock” and in Portuguese “mischievous”— feels fitting for a landscape that has humbled many who came looking for more than it was willing to give.

Ren Fou