Lost Dutchman State Park
Explore the legendary Superstition Mountains with stunning desert hikes, camping, and breathtaking sunset views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Escape the heat & crowds
Lost Dutchman State Park
Best Time
Escape the heat & crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the legendary Superstition Mountains with stunning desert hikes, camping, and breathtaking sunset views.
"Iconic mountains and beautiful place to hike because every view is worth it."
💧 Hydration is Key!
Always bring more water than you think you'll need, especially during warmer months.
🥾 Trail Etiquette
Follow Leave No Trace principles. Stay on marked trails and pack out all trash.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Flatiron via Siphon Draw Trail
Siphon Draw Trailhead
Challenging climb to a dramatic granite summit with panoramic views. Not for the faint of heart!
Treasure Loop Trail
Central area of the park
A moderate 2.3-mile loop offering stunning Superstition Mountain vistas, perfect for most hikers.
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Superstition Mountain Views
Various overlooks
Iconic jagged peaks that change color throughout the day, especially magical at sunset.
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Lost Dutchman State Park Cabins
Park campground
Cozy cabins offering a unique stay with incredible desert views and stargazing opportunities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Legendary Trails & Fees
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Hydration is Key!
Always bring more water than you think you'll need, especially during warmer months.
🥾 Trail Etiquette
Follow Leave No Trace principles. Stay on marked trails and pack out all trash.
📸 Sunset Spectacle
The park is renowned for its breathtaking sunsets over the Superstition Mountains.
💰 Park Entry Fee
A per-vehicle fee grants access. Consider if trails outside the park are a better value for you.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Hydration is Key!
Always bring more water than you think you'll need, especially during warmer months.
🥾 Trail Etiquette
Follow Leave No Trace principles. Stay on marked trails and pack out all trash.
📸 Sunset Spectacle
The park is renowned for its breathtaking sunsets over the Superstition Mountains.
💰 Park Entry Fee
A per-vehicle fee grants access. Consider if trails outside the park are a better value for you.
🐍 Wildlife Watch
Keep an eye out for desert wildlife like Big Horn Sheep and cottontail rabbits. Be snake aware!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Lost Dutchman State Park is celebrated for its stunning desert scenery, iconic Superstition Mountain views, and well-maintained trails, making it a top spot for hiking and camping. Visitors appreciate the park's beauty, the legend of the Lost Dutchman, and the peaceful camping experience. However, extreme summer heat requires careful planning, and some visitors note that accessing certain trails might be possible without paying the park's entrance fee.
"Lost Dutchman State Park blends stunning desert scenery, striking views of the Superstition Mountains, outdoor adventure, and rich legend in a compact, visitor-friendly setting ideal for both day trips and overnight stays under the desert sky. During summer, temperatures can become extremely warm even by 9 a.m., so hikers should plan accordingly and take precautions if venturing out during the day. The park is also a good spot for birdwatching, with opportunities to spot small mammals such as cottontail rabbits."
Ubaya Medawela
"Great park! Iconic mountains and beautiful place to hike because every view is worth it. There are camping grounds and picnic areas. The trails are marked and there are good places to take pictures or overlook to enjoy the view. Definitely worth the visit for a $10 entrance fee."
Town Traveller
"Such a beautiful state park. We came early on a Monday and took advantage of the empty parking lot and trails. While still busy it was so much more still if ya know what I mean. We chose to do the Treasure Loop Trail which is a 2.3 mile loop with a pretty steady incline. I highly recommend doing it clockwise as we did the opposite and boy was it harder this way. The views were amazing and trails well kept. There are bathrooms and so many picnic tables to enjoy a full day. Staff we encountered was great and price fair to keep up the park. Remember to bring plenty of water even if you don’t think it’s that hot. Be smart and this time of year watch out for snakes! We didn’t see any luckily, but did enjoy the Big Horn Sheep near the top above the trail."
Janelle
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lost Dutchman State Park is located about 40 miles east of downtown Phoenix. You can drive there via US-60 E and AZ-88 N. Public transportation options are limited, so renting a car or using ride-sharing services are the most common ways to get there.
Direct public transportation to Lost Dutchman State Park is not readily available. Travelers often rely on personal vehicles, rental cars, or ride-sharing services from Phoenix.
The Siphon Draw Trailhead is located within Lost Dutchman State Park. You'll need to pay the park's entrance fee to access it.
Yes, some trails, including parts of the Siphon Draw Trail, can be accessed from federal land outside the park, potentially avoiding the state park entrance fee. However, this may require different parking arrangements.
Currently, there are no dedicated shuttle services operating directly to Lost Dutchman State Park from Phoenix or surrounding areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is typically $7-$10 per vehicle, though this can vary. It's a reasonable price for access to well-maintained trails and facilities. +1
Advance booking is generally not required for day use, but it's always a good idea to check the official Arizona State Parks website for any updates or special event reservations.
The park is typically open from sunrise to sunset. However, specific hours for facilities like campgrounds or visitor centers may vary.
Discounts are not commonly advertised for general park entry. However, annual passes for Arizona State Parks might be an option for frequent visitors.
While some trails connect to federal lands outside the park, the primary access points and shorter loops within Lost Dutchman State Park require the entrance fee.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
Popular trails include the moderate Treasure Loop Trail (2.3 miles) and the challenging Flatiron via Siphon Draw Trail (6 miles roundtrip). The park offers a variety of options for different fitness levels.
Yes, the park offers over 100 campsites, including cabins, with amenities like restrooms and showers. It's highly praised for its views and peaceful atmosphere.
You might spot Big Horn Sheep, cottontail rabbits, and various bird species. Remember to observe wildlife from a distance and never feed them.
Absolutely! The Treasure Loop Trail is family-friendly, and there are picnic areas and restrooms available. Early visits are recommended to avoid extreme heat.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes, breathable clothing, and a hat. Sunscreen is essential. Layers are recommended for cooler mornings or evenings.
📸 📸 Photography
The Superstition Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop for photos, especially during sunrise and sunset. Overlooks along trails and the park entrance offer great vantage points.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting. Midday can be harsh due to the desert sun.
Yes, but always maintain a safe distance and use a zoom lens. Respect their space and avoid disturbing them.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. Commercial photography or drone usage may require permits, so check with park management.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens is useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light conditions and sunsets.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
There are also picnic areas available, making it easy to enjoy a full day outdoors. The park's natural beauty and the chance to spot wildlife like rabbits can be very engaging for children. Remember to teach them about Leave No Trace principles to foster a love for nature.
💰 Budget Travelers
Camping is also a budget-friendly option compared to hotels, especially if you have your own gear. The park's proximity to Phoenix means you can easily stock up on supplies beforehand. Visiting on weekdays can also offer a more relaxed experience without additional cost.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Don't forget your wide-angle lens for sweeping vistas and a telephoto lens if you hope to capture any wildlife. The Flatiron and various overlooks offer iconic perspectives. Be prepared for the desert light, which can be intense midday.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking the Superstition Mountains
+3When planning your hike, always prioritize safety. The desert climate can be unforgiving, with extreme temperatures, especially during summer months. Hikers are strongly advised to carry ample water, wear appropriate sun protection, and check weather forecasts before heading out. Inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural beauty of the park for future visitors.
+1Beyond the main trails, the park connects to a larger network of trails on federal land, offering opportunities for longer backpacking trips for experienced adventurers. Researching these routes and understanding their remoteness is crucial. The park's unique geological formations and the allure of the Lost Dutchman legend add an extra layer of mystique to every hike.
Camping Under the Desert Sky
The true highlight of camping here is the unparalleled stargazing and the breathtaking panoramic views of the Superstition and Goldfield Mountains. Sunrises and sunsets paint the sky with vibrant colors, and at night, the distant lights of the East Valley create a beautiful backdrop. It's an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in the desert landscape.
Campers should be prepared for desert conditions, including temperature fluctuations. While the park is close to Phoenix for any forgotten supplies, it feels worlds away once you're settled in your campsite. Booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred spot.
The Legend of the Lost Dutchman
While the existence of the mine remains unproven, the legend has become an integral part of the park's identity. Visitors often feel a sense of wonder and exploration as they hike the trails, imagining the prospectors who once roamed these rugged landscapes. The dramatic scenery of the Superstition Mountains only enhances this mystique, making it easy to believe that hidden treasures might still lie within their rugged canyons.
This historical narrative draws many visitors to the park, seeking not only natural beauty but also a connection to Arizona's rich folklore. The park itself offers a tangible experience of the environment where these legends were born, providing a unique blend of outdoor recreation and historical intrigue.
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