Moderate: Massacre Falls

MODERATE: Massacre Grounds/Falls Trail in the Superstition Wilderness

Hike Co-leaders: Ron Deraas 701-263-5605, Joan Carlisle 254-931-2601
Date: Feb 18, 2026
Trailhead: Massacre Grounds/Falls Trail from Second Parking Lot on First Water Trail Road, just off of AZ88.
Description: Out and Back

This trail goes along the base of the Superstition Mountains to the East. We startfrom the second parking lot just off AZ88. The trail will pass through a vastRamada with diverse vegetation that includes saguaro, mesquite and palo verde. Open grasses and sprawling cholla are mixed with brittlebush plots as we travel our route. The views are bountiful with such a wide variety. We will pass through a fence as we begin our trek to more rugged terrain and abundant views.
The trail is smooth in areas but others have the usual rocks protruding along with uneven surfaces. Good hiking shoes and poles are warranted.

Hike distance: approx. 5.0 miles
Accumulated Elevation Gain: approx. 1100 feet
Trailhead Elevation: 2200 feet
Driving Distance: 75 miles R/T, 45 minutes
Driver's Fee: $6.00 + $2.00 dirt road
Trailhead facilities: There are NO facilities at the trailhead. We recommend stopping at the 76 gas station at the intersection approx 5 miles before the trailhead.
Meetup: 7:45 Cottonwood parking lot

Driving Directions:
Massacre Grounds/Falls Trailhead from Second Parking Lot on First Water Trail Road.
Address: just past entrance of Lost Dutchman State Park.
Exit from Cottonwood onto Riggs heading East toward McQueen for 1.5 miles, turn left on McQueen towards the 202 traveling 4.5 miles. Use the exit to enter the 202 traveling East, travel approximately 16 miles to exit 30A and enter the 60 towards Globe. Travel 5.7 miles and take Exit 196 for S Idaho Road. Turn left and go 2.3 miles on S Idaho Rd and then turn right onto N Apache Trail. Continue through the roundabout and travel approximately 5 miles, traveling past the entrance into Lost Dutchman State Park about ¼ mile to the First Water Trail Road. As you enter the First Water Trail Road, go to the second parking lot, about 0.7 miles, which will be on your right.