We kicked off our first adventure for the new year with an AWESOME hike near Phoenix (Apache Junction), Siphon Draw to the top of Flat Iron in the Superstition Mountains!
If you ever want to know the feeling of being on the edge, for 3-4 hours, of passing out, climbing to the top of Flat Iron is one way to do it! It is a very popular, 5 mile trail, so apparently there are a lot of masochists in Phoenix. Or new resolution-ers. Either way, the Siphon Draw trail is a fun way to get your butt kicked by nature!
The Superstition Mountains in the Lost Dutchman State Park.
Coyote sun dial near the Siphon Draw trailhead.
Up close & personal with the Superstition Peaks. Can’t even see Flat Iron from the beginning.
And there it is: our unintentional goal. From what we gathered from the park ranger, getting to the top of Flat Iron required climbing. We initially didn’t think we’d be able to get to it…
The basin of Siphon Draw, where the fun begins –just as you think the elevation gain is getting tough, you reach the basin. ‘Wait–what?? You want me to go up where??’
This trail was so busy, we HAD to stop often to let the heavy traffic through.
Top of the basin.
Scrambling over boulders got a bit tough for my little legs.
Oh, if you slip from the crazy & rocky elevation gain, there are plenty of cacti to slow down your fall.
The last 5 minutes to the top are the worst most interesting –bouldering, makes one feel like a mountain goat.
Checking out….
…the view from the top.
View enlarged – And here is the view sitting right on the edge of Flat Iron.
The conquerers! ^_^ I know he’s resisting the temptation….
View enlarged – It’s pretty spacious at the top.
For us, heading down was more difficult than heading up, although it went a lot faster.
Enjoying the view right before heading back down the basin.
View enlarged – Flat Iron –conquered!
All that conquering left us famished so we randomly stopped at the Dutchman’s Hideout (Mining Steakhouse) near the base of the Superstition Mountains. It is a neat restaurant with a fun but still classy atmosphere.
Sweet potato fries & bacon burger.
What a great way to start our adventures off for the new year!
| Lost Dutchman State Park 6109 N Apache Trail Apache Junction, AZ 85119 |
|
| $7/vehicle (1-4 adults) | |
| 5 Miles Round Trip | |
