Superstition Mountains - Flatiron

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We are heading up to the Flatiron with another small group that has invited 3H to join them for a 7:30 am memorial hike they are having that day. For that reason, and due to Superstition Wilderness group size restrictions, there are only a few spots open for this offering.

This will be a more relaxed pace outing for 3H. We will not be speeding up the mountain, but it is still a difficult hike that will test even the best of hikers. If you have the day free, you are welcome to attend. If you are able to stick with the group, we'll take you up to the Flat Iron. If you only wish to go to Siphon Draw, or just want to turn around somewhere along the trail, that is fine, as well. Due to the slower pace, this is a good chance to test whether you have what it takes to make the trek. Just keep in mind, you can always turn around.

This hike will be approximately 6 miles in length in an out and back format from our starting point inside the Lost Dutchman State Park at the Siphon Draw Trailhead parking lot.

This hike is rated difficult and involves quite a bit of boulder scrambling as we climb through Siphon Draw to the panoramic Flatiron region of the magnificent Superstition Mountains. This large flat area offers amazing views. At approximately 5000 feet, we will be well above most peaks in the Valley. The last mile of our climb will gain 1500 feet! As a gauge, this hike has been referred to as equivalent to two Camelbacks, and some even say two and a half Camelbacks.

This hike is rated DIFFICULT, so please assess your abilities before attempting it. Here is more information you should review to determine if this hike is for you:

https://hikearizona.com/decoder.php?ZTN=45

Elev Gain: 2,900 feet!

This will be a slower paced hike. Expect 6-7 hours for this hike depending on the group's ability.

PLEASE NOTE OUR STARTING POINT FOR THIS HIKE AS IT HAS CHANGED FROM PRIOR HIKES: Directions to the trailhead: Take U.S. 60 to Idaho Road (exit 196) and go north for 2.25 miles to SR88, the Apache Trail. Turn NE (slight right) on SR88 and continue about 6 miles or so to the right turn into the Lost Dutchman State Park. Please note these are all paved roads. There is a $7 fee per vehicle (1-4 adults) to enter the park. Here is a helpful link: https://azstateparks.com/lost-dutchman/explore/facility-information

For those coming down the 101 to the 202, it is suggested that you exit at Brown Road (rather than going down to US 60) and take it east about 7.5 miles to AZ 88. From there, turn left, and head to the Lost Dutchman State Park turnoff.

Suggested carpool location: 6:45 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 Home Depot lot, behind Burger King. The Home Depot address is 6838 E Superstition Springs Blvd., Mesa, AZ 85208.

Note: As a courtesy, passengers should consider chipping in a couple of bucks for the carpool and a couple more for the Park entrance fee, depending on the number of passengers in the vehicle.

VERY IMPORTANT: Please state if you will be at the carpool spot, or, in the alternative, whether you will meet at the trailhead. You are responsible for yourself in this regard. There is no guarantee that anyone will be at the carpool location. If no one has indicated they will be there, please consider proceeding to the trailhead.

As always, bring lots of water (we'd recommend at least 4-5 liters), nutritious snacks, hat, good footwear, gloves are nice on the rough rocks, sunscreen, camera, and your sense of adventure.