Best Time to Visit (and Hike) the Superstition Mountains
The Superstition Mountains are among the most iconic mountain ranges in the American Southwest. They're full of mystery, beauty and adventure.
November - March: The Golden Months
The Superstition Mountains can get dangerously hot. However, temperatures are guaranteed to be safe from mid-fall to early spring. Monsoons are also less likely during this time (although we did have an unusual amount of rain this fall).
The months of October, April, and May are also generally safe, but there are sometimes those occasional days when temperatures still reach the low 100s. A little more preparation is needed even at higher elevations.
Month-by-Month Conditions in the Superstition Mountains
So, what's each month like in the Supes? Here's a quick breakdown:
- November: cooler temperatures and occasional fall colors.
- December - January: Cold (sometimes freezing) mornings, afternoon temperatures that almost never rise above the mid 60s.
- February: occasional warmer days, still cooler overall.
- March - April: wildflower season and incredible sunrises
When to Avoid Hiking in the Superstition Mountains
We highly recommend avoiding outdoor activities between June and mid-September. Yes, you'll often see hikers early in the morning before extreme heat settles in. However, you'll need to be familiar with the trail and hope that nothing goes wrong that could delay you. Temperatures can sore well into the triple digits by late morning.
But, what if it's raining? Won't that cool the air to a safe temperature? Usually, yes. However, this is also monsoon season; that rain can turn into a dangerous storm with little warning. That means flooded washes (which are plentiful in the Supes) that often leave hikers stranded. It also increases the risk of landslides.
However, we do recommend visiting in late September, just as the fall equinox is setting in. That's when you can catch a popular natural light show: a massive shadow resembling a cougar catching its prey.
Best Times of Day for Specific Superstition Mountain Trails
- Siphon Draw to the Flat Iron: it's typically best to start late morning. Temperatures will be more comfortable for scrambling and the sun won't be in your eyes. Plus, it's still early enough to finish before the sun sets and the park closes.
- Superstition Ridgeline Trail: start as early as you can. The trail is long and difficult and the last couple of miles (coming down from the Flat Iron) can be dangerous at night. Lost Dutchman State Park also closes soon after sunset. If you don't make it back in time, your car will be locked in for the night. You can also park at the First Water trailhead if you don't think you'll finish in time.
- Peralta Trail: perfect for sunrise and sunset hikes. Just make sure you get there in time to reach Fremont Saddle during the golden hour. Trust us, you won't regret it.
Explore the Superstition Mountains With Expert Guidance
We know the best times to explore the Superstition Mountains' most iconic trails. Our guided hikes are carefully scheduled so that you can enjoy the best hiking experience possible.
If you're ready for the adventure of a lifetime, book your guided hike today!