Superstition Peak 5057 via Hieroglyphic Trail

This hike leads you up towards the base of the mighty Superstition Mountains into a canyon where petroglyphs decorate the basalt boulders and walls. You’ll hike through this canyon up to a ridge, which you’ll traverse to the top of Peak 5057. Expect a hard hike that pays off with gorgeous views of the mountains that surround you.

The hike to the petroglyphs is usually busier than the hike to the peak, so expect heavier traffic in the first half and lighter traffic in the second half. You should prepare for a strenuous climb by starting your hike early in the cool morning and bringing lots of water.

From the trailhead, head out on the trail, keeping left immediately as it zig-zags to a junction surrounded by teddy bear cholla. Stay left here (if you zig-zag more after this point, you didn’t stay far enough left). The Lost Goldmine Trail heads off to the right.

Pass a gate marking the boundary of the Superstition Wilderness. You’ll hike along a low ridgetop for about half of a mile. You’ll descend into a wash near the opening of the Hieroglyphic Canyon. Here, the footing becomes looser and rockier, so watch your steps.

Reach a short cliff overlooking a collection of volcanic rocks. Follow the stream to find the petroglyphs, most of them on the far side, carved into the dark basalt rocks. Continue to the T-junction and begin your ascent of the ridgeline to the top. From the top, retrace your steps to the trailhead.