Hike the Hieroglyphic Trail
Details
Distance
3 miles
Elevation Gain
500 ft
Added by Breanne McNitt
Easy hike to view Indian Petroglyphs and hang out next to seasonal pools.
This hike is a great beginner hike for those who want to experience the beauty of the Superstitions. I suggest going early in the morning because this trail gets very crowded later in the day (especially on weekends).
To get to the trailhead from US60, turn north onto Kings Ranch Road where you will begin the winding path through the neighborhoods. From Kings Ranch Road, turn east on Baseline Ave, north on Mohican Road, west on Valley View Drive, north on Whitetail Road, and east on Cloudview Ave until it comes to a dead end at the trailhead parking lot.
Start off by entering through the gate and then follow the Hieroglyphic Trail at any intersections you come to. You will pass through a few gates, so make sure to lock them behind you so no cattle accidentally escape. The trail goes up a few switchbacks, and then heads into the canyon for about 1.5 miles. You will then reach the water, and if you look across the pools, you will see the rock walls lined with petroglyphs. (Yes, this trail is named hieroglyphic trail, but since hieroglyphs are Egyptian writings, the pictures found here are actually petroglyphs).
If you turn around to the direction you came from, you will also be rewarded with beautiful views of the valley bellow.
Spend some time by the water, and make sure to enjoy the petroglyphs from a distance (Leave No Trace!). Once you've had your fill, head down the trail the direction you came, and after 1.5 miles you'll be back at your car again.
If you want a more challenging hike, check out the Hike to Peak 5057 via Hieroglyphic Trail.
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Reviews
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Great hike, but sooo busy
If you haven’t trained in the heat, only go in the cooler months (AZ summers are brutal). But when it’s nice out, this trail his super popular. Really beautiful!
5.0
Beautiful Hike with Seasonal Waterfall
The Hieroglyphic Trail is a popular hike within the Superstition Wilderness. The parking lot fills up quickly so be there early to grab a spot. Do not park along the road as you will be ticketed or towed. The canyon full of petroglyphs is quite impressive. During the cooler months there is often water flowing through the creek bed with a waterfall just below the petroglyphs. Always remember to look at the carvings but don't tough to preserve them for generations to come!!
5.0
Love!
I love this trail, it’s one of my favorites. It’s not too hard but you definitely feel it work your muscles.
5.0
Great Hike!
This is a perfect trail if you are wanting to just get out of the house and see something pretty without too much exertion. The length is just short enough and the elevation is mild enough that this trail could be ran with little difficulty as well.
5.0
Fun hike!
We had a blast! Very kid and dog friendly. If you can make The 1-1/2 mile trip up there then the trip down will be easy.
5.0
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on.
