Lost Goldmine Trail
Hike through the legendary Superstition Mountains, seeking hidden gold and ancient secrets on the Lost Goldmine Trail.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Lost Goldmine Trail
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike through the legendary Superstition Mountains, seeking hidden gold and ancient secrets on the Lost Goldmine Trail.
"A hike steeped in legend, offering stunning desert vistas and a touch of mystery."
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
The desert is unforgiving. Stay hydrated! Bring more water than you think you'll need.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The terrain can be rocky and uneven. Good footwear is essential for a comfortable and safe hike.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Carney Springs Waterfall
Off Lost Goldmine Trail
A small, seasonal waterfall offering a refreshing sight amidst the desert. Best after rain!
Shaka Cave
Off Lost Goldmine Trail
An ancient indigenous shelter with historical significance and a unique desert charm.
Wedding Cake Hill Summit
Via Lost Goldmine Trail
Reach the summit for breathtaking panoramic views of the Superstition Mountains, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Legend
Timing is Everything
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
The desert is unforgiving. Stay hydrated! Bring more water than you think you'll need.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The terrain can be rocky and uneven. Good footwear is essential for a comfortable and safe hike.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses are a must. The Arizona sun is strong, even on cooler days.
🗺️ Download Trail Maps
Cell service can be spotty. Download offline maps to navigate the trails effectively.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
The desert is unforgiving. Stay hydrated! Bring more water than you think you'll need.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The terrain can be rocky and uneven. Good footwear is essential for a comfortable and safe hike.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses are a must. The Arizona sun is strong, even on cooler days.
🗺️ Download Trail Maps
Cell service can be spotty. Download offline maps to navigate the trails effectively.
👻 Embrace the Lore
The trail is rich with legends of lost gold and ancient history. Enjoy the mystery!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Lost Goldmine Trail for its stunning desert scenery and the allure of the Lost Dutchman legend. The chance to see seasonal waterfalls and explore historical sites like Shaka Cave adds to its appeal. Some find the hike challenging but rewarding, especially the views from Wedding Cake Hill. Occasional mentions of the heat and the need for preparedness are common.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Lost Goldmine Trail is located in Apache Junction, Arizona, east of Phoenix. Many visitors access it via the Apache Trail (Highway 88). +1 It's often a scenic drive to get there, with Goldfield Ghost Town nearby serving as a popular landmark.
+2
Parts of the Apache Trail can be scenic but also rugged. Check current road conditions before you go, as some sections may be unpaved or subject to closures.
The trailhead is generally well-marked, but having a reliable GPS or offline map is recommended. Look for signs directing you to the Lost Goldmine Trail.
Yes, Goldfield Ghost Town is a popular nearby attraction, offering a glimpse into the Old West with shops, saloons, and even ziplining. +2 Aerial Coffee Co. is also a local spot in Apache Junction.
The Lost Goldmine Trail is approximately 30-45 minutes east of Phoenix, depending on traffic and your exact starting point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Lost Goldmine Trail itself is a public hiking trail and does not require an entrance fee or tickets.
Generally, no permits are required for day hiking on the Lost Goldmine Trail. However, always check with local authorities for any temporary restrictions or regulations.
The trail is open from sunrise to sunset. It's best to plan your hike during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
Yes, there is typically parking available at the trailhead. It can get busy on weekends, so arriving early is advisable.
While not explicitly stated in all sources, it's generally recommended to check local regulations regarding pets on hiking trails. Leash laws usually apply.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The Lost Goldmine Trail is considered moderate. It involves some elevation gain and can be rocky, with distances varying depending on how far you go.
Key highlights include Carney Springs Waterfall (seasonal), Shaka Cave, and the summit of Wedding Cake Hill, offering great views.
Yes, families can enjoy the trail, especially for shorter hikes. Be prepared for the desert environment and ensure children have adequate water and sun protection.
You might encounter desert wildlife such as lizards, birds, and possibly snakes. Always maintain a safe distance and do not feed the animals.
The trail is generally maintained, but conditions can vary. It's part of the Superstition Mountains, known for its rugged beauty.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit of Wedding Cake Hill offers stunning panoramic views, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Absolutely! The desert landscape and mountain vistas make for spectacular sunrise and sunset shots. The summit of Wedding Cake Hill is particularly recommended.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive desert scenery. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions during sunrise/sunset.
The harsh desert sun can create strong contrasts. Shooting during the golden hours (early morning and late afternoon) helps mitigate this.
Drone usage is often restricted in natural areas and national forests. Always check local regulations and obtain necessary permits before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Ensure children have plenty of water, wear hats and sunscreen, and are comfortable with uneven terrain. The nearby Goldfield Ghost Town offers additional entertainment with its old-west charm, making it a great complement to a family hike. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 The Carney Springs Waterfall area offers unique compositions, and the general desert landscape is rich with textures and colors. +1 Remember to bring a wide-angle lens and be prepared for the desert light. ⛰️ Adventure Seekers
+1 Always prioritize safety, inform someone of your plans, and be prepared for rugged terrain and potential navigation challenges. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of the Lost Dutchman
+1The mystery surrounding the mine has fueled numerous expeditions, many of which ended in tragedy or disappointment. The rugged and often unforgiving terrain of the Superstitions, coupled with tales of curses and disappearances, only adds to the allure and danger associated with the legend. Hikers on the Lost Goldmine Trail often feel a connection to this history, imagining the prospectors who once roamed these very mountains in search of fortune.
While the existence of the Lost Dutchman's mine remains unproven, the legend continues to draw visitors to the Superstition Mountains, making trails like the Lost Goldmine Trail a journey not just through nature, but through a captivating piece of American frontier history.
Exploring Carney Springs Waterfall and Shaka Cave
+1Shaka Cave, also accessible from the trail, holds historical significance as it was once used by indigenous peoples as a shelter and a source of water. This connection to ancient inhabitants adds a layer of cultural depth to the hiking experience.
Exploring these spots allows visitors to appreciate not only the geological formations but also the historical human use of this desert environment. When visiting these areas, remember to tread lightly and respect the natural and historical integrity of the sites. The beauty of these locations is best preserved by following Leave No Trace principles.
Hiking to Wedding Cake Hill
+1The trail to Wedding Cake Hill is approximately 3.7 miles roundtrip with about 700 feet of elevation gain, making it an achievable goal for many hikers. The path itself winds through classic Sonoran Desert scenery, with saguaro cacti and other desert flora dotting the landscape.
+1Remember to wear appropriate footwear and carry plenty of water, as the climb can be strenuous, especially during warmer parts of the day. The effort is well worth the breathtaking views from the top.
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