Photo by Mare Czinar First Water Creek Overlook

Superstition Wilderness

Whatever you do, don’t be deterred by the ugly electrical tower in a dirt turnoff along State Route 88; it serves as the trailhead for this hike. In fact, if you didn’t know what you’re looking for, you’d fly right by this austere landmark. For those in the know, the tower marks the start of a pleasant amble to a breezy cliff overlooking Canyon Lake and the stunning beauty of the lava-borne canyon of First Water Creek. The informal footpath is slightly rocky but not too difficult to follow. It winds among huge boulders and windswept desert plants, making this trail a short but memorable leg-stretch for those on their way to or from Tortilla Flat or Canyon Lake.




INFORMATION:
Length: 1 mile roundtrip
Rating: easy
Elevation: 2,038-1,858 feet
Getting there: From Phoenix, travel east on US 60 to the Idaho Road/SR 88 exit. Follow State Route 88 north roughly 12 miles to a dirt pullout between mileposts 207 and 208 and park near the electrical tower that bears a hand-painted “#174.”
Information: 602-225-5200,
www.fs.fed.us/r3/tonto/home.shtml