PERALTA CANYON to the LONE PINE

PERALTA CANYON to the LONE PINE
Superstition Wilderness

Anyone who has hiked in Arizona for more than 5 minutes knows about this trail. It’s extraordinary beauty, proximity to town and easy access make the Peralta Canyon Trail #102 a mecca for trekkers. Although short in length, the route is rugged and rife with obstacles such as slick rock, water crossings (in winter) and sections where---to the untrained eye—the trail seems to disappear. Surprisingly green for a desert hike, the route is shaded by hardy trees and shrubs including hackberry, Arizona madrone, desert oaks, jojoba and sugar sumac. Through out the hike, contorted volcanic rock formations vie for attention, increasing in complexity with each foot of elevation gained.
A popular turnaround point for the hike is the Fremont Saddle where views of the signature landmark of the Superstition Wilderness—Weaver’s Needle---dominate the sweeping valley vistas. From here, a fun way to extend the hike is to continue on to the lone pinion pine visible on the northeast ridgeline. To reach it, simply head east from the saddle along the many paths-of-use for just under a quarter-mile. The extra effort pays off with up-close views of the Needle and refuge from the crowds at the saddle.


LENGTH TO FREMONT SADDLE: 5 miles round-trip
LENGTH WITH SIDE TRIP TO THE TREE: 5.5 miles roundtrip
RATING: moderate
ELEVATION: 2,400 – 3,800 feet



GETTING THERE:
From Phoenix, take US 60 east to about 8 miles past Apache Junction and look for the “Peralta Trailhead” sign on the side of the road. Turn left onto Peralta Road (Forest Road 77) and drive 8 miles to the trailhead. NOTE: FR 77 is good dirt and passable by sedan. There are nice restrooms but no water at the trailhead. The parking lot fills up quickly on weekends, so plan to arrive early or park in the overflow lot. NO FEES.

INFORMATION: fs.fed.us/r3/tonto/wilderness/superstition
MORE PHOTOS: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=17772&id=1795269672&op=6