Peralta-Weaver's Outlook Ridge-Cave Trail-Bluff Springs Loop

We are heading to the Peralta Trailhead for a challenging little loop hike.

It is ably described at the following link: http://hikearizona.com/decoder.php?ZTN=24

After reading that description, we ask that you evaluate your abilities to complete this DIFFICULT hike. We will gain 1400 feet during our efforts, and it will likely take the better part of 4 to 5 hours. The views of Weaver's Needle will be unparalleled, but this experience will challenge you more than many of our local hikes.

Having said that, we will structure this hike in three stages. For those wanting to experience only the grandeur of the Peralta Trail, you will have the option of returning the way you came at any time during the ascent to the Fremont Saddle, or upon reaching the Fremont Saddle.

For those wanting a little more adventure, we will be hiking to the famous lone pine at the end of the Weaver's Outlook Trail, where magnificent views await. Thereafter, we will head a good ways back towards the Fremont Saddle. At the juncture where we meet the Cave Trail, those wanting to return by way of the Peralta Trail may do so by completing the short journey back to the Saddle, and heading left, back down the Peralta Trail.

However, for those undaunted by the task at hand (if any remain at this point!), we will begin the arduous task of reaching Geronimo's Cave, and the even more difficult task of descending back down to our vehicles waiting far below. There will be route finding opportunities along the way, some boulder scrambling, and some steep grades that bring many, not to their knees, but to their seats, as they slide down some of the steeper grades on the descent of what has become known as Devil’s Slide. Fear of heights may be a factor for some along this portion of the hike. We shall stop at Geronimo's Cave and enjoy the views, as we look down at the birds in flight, and those traveling the Peralta Trail far below.

No matter how much of this endeavor you choose, we believe you will feel a sense of great accomplishment during, and following, your efforts. Trekking sticks/poles would be in order for those that benefit from their use. As with all 3H hikes, you are responsible for your own safety.

DISTANCE: 5.25 miles +/-

DIFFICULTY: For the entire route, Moderately Difficult to Difficult depending on your abilities. Peralta Trail alone would be considered Moderate by most. To the Weaver's Overlook Ridge would be considered Moderately Difficult. From there and back to the trailhead via Geronimo’s Cave would be considered difficult.

ELEVATION GAIN: 1400 feet

TIME: Expect 4 to 5 hours for the entire route.

WHAT TO BRING: Plenty of water (at least, 3 liters), sunscreen, sturdy hiking shoes, hat, camera, and your sense of adventure!

PLEASE NOTE: There is no water available at the trailhead. There is a restroom.

SUGGESTED CARPOOL LOCATION: 6:00 am at the Home Depot at Power and US 60. Go east on the Superstition Freeway (US 60) to Superstition Springs Blvd. exit 187. Take that exit, turn right and go 1/2 mile east, across Power Road. Then turn left, toward Home Depot, at the second driveway. Park in the southwest corner of the lot, behind Burger King. The Home Depot address is 6838 E Superstition Springs Blvd., Mesa, AZ 85208.

Alternatively, arrangements can be made to carpool from Bashas’ in Gold Canyon (5311 S Superstition Blvd) at 6:15 am or Peralta Trail Elementary School, also in Gold Canyon (10965 E Peralta Rd) at 6:30 am.

Carpooling is highly recommended, as the parking lot usually fills up quickly on weekends. Ergo, the 7:00 am start time at the trailhead. Carpool arrangements are made by agreement. Just use the "Comments" section to suggest where you’ll carpool from, and then check back to see if any other fellow hikers will be there, too.

VERY IMPORTANT: Please state whether you will be at a carpool spot or, in the alternative, whether you will meet at the trailhead. This helps us, and your fellow hikers. You are responsible for yourself in this regard. There is no guarantee that anyone will be at the suggested carpool locations. If no one has indicated they will be at the carpool location, please consider proceeding to the trailhead.

PERALTA TRAILHEAD LOCATION: From Phoenix, travel east on US 60 to Peralta Road which is just east of mile post 204, and turn north on Peralta Road (a well marked, stop-lighted intersection). The road is paved, but becomes gravel after about one mile. Take this road until it ends (about 7.2 miles from the US 60), at the well marked Peralta Trailhead parking lot. Please note: At the fork several miles into the Peralta Road, follow the sign for the trailhead, and take it left up the hill.

PLEASE NOTE: The gravel road is traversed by many cars, but SUV/high clearance is preferable in light of recent rains.

The forest service imposes a 15 hiker limit on all Superstition Wilderness hikes.

Please understand, hiking has its dangers. By signing up and attending this, and any 3H events, you are responsible for your own safety, and organizers and their assistants cannot be held responsible for any injuries or other mishaps that may occur.