Can You Hike The Superstition Mountains in Summer?

Summer officially kicks off this month! Temperatures in the Superstitions are already hitting triple digits as rescuers prepare for a surge of heat-related calls. 

We all know the desert reaches scorching temperatures during monsoon season, but can you still hike in the Superstition Mountains in summer safely? 

If you're an experienced desert hiker, maybe. If not, read on to learn why it may not be the best idea. 

Are Superstition Mountain Trails Open During Summer?

Most of the trails in the Superstition Mountains remain open all year. However, they will usually close temporarily if a rescue operation takes place. The closure typically lasts the remainder of that day and possibly the next. 

Lost Dutchman State Park is also open year-round. However, it's important to note that park officials walk-ins or drop-offs at the main entrance. That policy remains in effect throughout the year. 

Know the Desert

First, we recommend that you avoid all hiking in the Superstition Mountains during summer if you're not an experienced desert hiker.

This is true even if you're an experienced hiker in a different climate and are planning to start before sunrise. Remember, the desert is a harsh environment with its own unique challenges. 

I also include Lost Dutchman State Park's trails in this warning. They may seem easy to follow, but I've personally helped hikers find their way after they attempted the Treasure Loop Trail only to get lost on Jacob's Crosscut. 

And those are the marked trails.

Getting lost is easy and can lead to disaster quickly (more on that later). Give yourself a chance to understand our harsh desert environment and the very real dangers that await during summer.

Then, pull up a map and make perfectly sure that you understand the path you want to take, any trail crossings along the way, and the nearest safe place if you need help. 

False Trails in the Desert

The desert is known for its false trails. The rugged, sparse terrain frequently makes it appear that a trail continues in one direction when it actually turns in another. You'll also see paths that look just like trails cut through areas that lead to no where. 

These false trails can be found throughout the Superstition Mountains. Unfortunately, you won't have to venture very far to completely lose site of the trail you were trying to follow. The desert's rugged terrain tends to blend together very well. 

Hiking in the wrong direction can be very dangerous in the Superstition Mountains during summer. Temperatures rise quickly in the Sonoran Desert, frequently reaching triple digits before 10am. Getting lost, even for a short period, could mean serious trouble. 

Rescues Take Time

Don't let the proximity to metro Phoenix fool you; rescues take time in the Superstition Mountains. Even worse, they tend to take the most time in areas where rescues are most likely to be needed. 

This could mean being left stranded for hours in the scorching sun with little shade after facing a medical emergency. That's why people die on these trails every summer. 

Still Want to Hike in the Superstitions During Summer?

We get it better than most; the Superstition Mountains are stunning. It's hard not to want to hike here.

If summer is your only chance and you insist, please consider these tips. 

Consider the Haunted Canyon Trail

The Haunted Canyon Trail is an incredibly unique and stunning trek located in the eastern Superstition Mountains. Its higher elevation keeps the area cooler. Plus, the creek flowing alongside the trail creates an oasis with a thick canopy of shade. 

Still, temperatures frequently range between the upper 90s and low 100s during summer. There are also several creek crossings that can make it difficult to stay on track. So, it's still important to begin early and ensure you're prepared. 

Start Early

If you're hiking in the western Supes during summer, start early - preferably before sunrise. You can start just after sunrise for shorter hikes, but make sure you're confident about the path you're taking. You won't have much time until temperatures get dangerously hot. 

Dress  for Survival, not Style

Safety trumps style. If you're wearing a bright neon green synthetic shirt with the upper half of your khaki convertible pants, you're doing it right.

If you're sporting a trendy button-up shirt with matching gray trousers, please stay inside. And yes, that really happens. 

The goal is to reflect as much heat off of your body as possible. Brighter colors do this well. Synthetic materials also wick away moisture. 

Some people will recommend that you wear long sleeves and pants even during summer to protect your skin. Personally - and I can only speak for myself - I prefer shorts and t-shirts. Obviously, they release more heat and make it easier to stay cooler. I'll just wear a hat and paraben-free sunscreen to protect my skin. 

Regardless of your preference, just put safety first, not looks. You're already going to be dripping with sweat, so don't try to drip with style.

Take More Water Than You Need

You might be surprised by how much more water you drink in the desert if you're not used to hiking here. 

However, that's not the only reason to extra carry water. 

Heat strokes are very common out here even during the early hours. Even now, as I write this, it's 97 degrees at 9am. 

Water can provide much needed relief during the early signs of heat exhaustion. Carry enough water to pour over yourself and stay hydrated. It really can mean the difference between driving yourself away safely or flying away in a $30,000 life flight helicopter ride (if they even reach you in time). 

Take Snacks and Electrolytes 

Your body's resources will be depleted quickly as temperatures rise. Electrolytes and the right snacks can help push a little longer through extreme heat. Of course, they're not guaranteed to keep you out of trouble, but they will definitely increase your chances of survival. 

Use Maps and/or the AllTrails App

Lost Dutchman State Park offers free trail maps to all visitors. Most (but not all) NFS trailheads have maps that you can take pictures of.

Still, the AllTrails app is probably your safest option. It'll actually show which trail you're on and the surrounding area in real time. You can even download regional maps that usually still work after losing service. 

What to do if you Begin Feeling Faint

Have you ever stood up too fast and felt dizzy? The early signs of heat exhaustion are similar to that, although the sensation may not be as strong at first. It doesn't matter; as soon as you have that experience, pour water over your head. Control your breathing, keep yourself calm, and remember that water evaporates quickly. Pour more to cool yourself as it dries. 

It's time to call for help immediately if someone:

• feels confused
• has a weak or rapid pulse
• has pale and/or dry skin
• begins hallucinating
  
• loses consciousness 

Seriously, don't wait to see if it gets better. You're past that. 

Hike the Superstition Mountains Like a Local

Want to hike the Superstition Mountains the smart, safe way? Book a hike with us today! We'll show you the best that our beautiful mountains have to offer and keep you safe along the way.