Superstition Mountains, Peak 5024 - Flatiron

If you have the day free, we'd love to have some company as we, once again, ascend this beautiful mountain. We'll head directly up to the highest point, Peak 5024, sometimes referred to as North Peak, and then we will take the side trip down to Flatiron.

This hike will be approximately 8.5 - 9 miles in length in an out and back format from our starting point at the start of First Water Road just passed the entrance to the Lost Dutchman State Park.

At Peak 5024, we will see carvings in the rocks dating back over 100 years as we take a 360 degree look around the Valley, and down upon the Massacre Grounds area west of First Water Ranch far below our vantage point.

This hike is rated difficult and involves 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. So, bring your "A" game if you dare to make this awesome journey.

AGAIN, this hike is rated DIFFICULT, so please assess your ability before attempting it. If you are bringing a guest, please make sure they read this post, as well, and consider whether they are a good fit for this strenuous trek.

Elev Gain: 3,100 feet!

Expect 5 1/2-6 hours for this hike depending on the group's ability.

PLEASE NOTE OUR STARTING POINT FOR THIS HIKE: 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 First Water Rd. (just BEYOND the entrance to the Lost Dutchman State Park). Turn right at First Water Rd. and then left at the first set of parking spaces just about 50 yards into the road. Please note this is a dirt road but this beginning section is easily traveled by any passenger car.

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 5 miles to AZ 88. From there, turn left, and head to the First Water Rd. turnoff just beyond the Lost Dutchman State Park. This is the starting point we used to use back in 2010 when the Lost Dutchman State Park closed due to budget constraints. We stopped leading hikes from here when the Mining Camp Trailhead opened, but it has since closed. Regardless, this hike gives us a nice stretch of the legs before climbing up into Siphon Draw, and lengthens it a bit from either of the other two approaches.

There is no fee to park along First Water Rd., and there are no facilities available, so plan accordingly. Parking is limited, so please carpool if you can. Fry's in AJ is a good recommendation for those making such plans.

As always, bring lots of water (we'd recommend at least 3-4 liters), nutritious snacks, electrolytes, hat, good footwear, sunscreen, camera, hiking gloves, hiking poles, windbreaker and your sense of adventure.

SPECIAL NOTE: 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.