Hieroglyphic Trail is an easy hike to view Indian Petroglyphs and hang out next to seasonal pools located near Gold Canyon, Arizona.
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 Peak 5057 via Hieroglyphic Trail.
PARKING
If the parking lot is full, please do not park illegally or on private property. Please be respectful of the local community and residents of the Cloudview neighborhood.