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USA :: Phoenix :: Peralta Canyon

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Panoramic view of Weavers Needle and Superstition Wilderness from viewpoint at end of Fremont Plateau

December 20, 2021

Peralta Canyon is one of best hikes in Superstions Wilderness east of Phoenix.  Main appeal is simply spectacular view of Weavers Needle, but there are many other eye candies along the way.  One way traverse to Lost Dutchman area is possible but not advised - much better to spend time on Fremont Plateau "Alpine" or for highline ridge return.  Canyon walls will provide some shade in mid to late afternoon, making trip a bit more bearable in summer months heat.

Trailhead is accessed from Hwy 60, some 5 miles east of Apache Junction;  coming from Phoenix stay in left lane after freeway ends and watch for signs at traffic lights.  Peralta Road is initially paved for about a mile, but then slowly deteriorates. It is still easily negotiated by low clearance sedans, but be mindful of couple of wash areas after rains.  Parking lot is ~7miles from Hwy60 and will fill up easily on weekends.  Several trails fork from trailhead and are all signed.  Peralta Trail initially travels flat and within 10 minutes crosses dry drainage to right (north) side.  Surface deteriorates considerably after crossing bit of slick-rock;  trail bed is rocky and although not difficult requires constant focus.  Some 45 min to an hour trail emerges to upper canyon and becomes incredibly scenic - see gallery.  Fremont Saddle is reached 1:15 - 1:30 of steady pace;  view of Weavers Needle will knock you off, even if was expected.  Do not stop at the saddle;  Peralta trail descends on the other side;  turn right and follow spur trail across Fremont Plateau angling right towards the Needle.  Going is spectacular here and more than enough reward for rather modest effort to get here.  Trail ends at Lone tree viewpoint;  it will probably be busy here, but more solitude can be found by scrambling rock outcrops on left or right side.

Optional highline return follows north Canyon ridge from Fremont Saddle.  I have not hiked it personally, but according to guidebook there are several scrambling parts with route-finding.  This option passes by fabled Geronimo Cave, seen from Peralta trail in upper part and offers wide reaching vistas most of the way.  It will NOT connect with main trail before parking and will be considerably longer, so plan accordingly and make sure it is within your comfort level.  Pleasant alternative is to visit only Geronimo Cave, then return back to Fremont saddle and hike out via the main trail.

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