Superstition Mountain & Apache Trail: Guided Hike, Ghost Town Lunch

Summary

Guided hike on Superstition Mountain and Goldfield ghost town with lunch stop

You’ll step right into Arizona’s wild side with a guided hike on Superstition Mountain, drive down the historic Apache Trail, and grab lunch in an old saloon at Goldfield Ghost Town. Expect real desert air, odd stories from your guide, and moments of silence that linger long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

We rolled out of Phoenix early, windows cracked just enough to let in that dry Sonoran air — you know the kind that smells like dust and creosote after last night’s sprinkle. Our guide, Mike, pointed out fields belonging to the Salt River Pima-Maricopa tribe as we bumped along toward Superstition Mountain. I’d seen it from a distance before, but actually winding up the Apache Trail with those jagged cliffs getting closer… it’s different. There’s something about seeing saguaros standing like old sentinels in the morning haze that makes you feel small, but not in a bad way.

The hike itself wasn’t too tough — more like a steady wander than anything hardcore — but I still felt my heart going when we stopped at this overlook. Mike started telling us about the Lost Dutchman’s Mine (I’ll admit, I half-listened because I was busy watching a lizard dart under a rock). The silence out there is weirdly thick; you hear your own shoes crunching gravel and sometimes nothing else for a minute or two. At one point I thought I smelled mesquite smoke, but maybe it was just my brain filling in desert stories.

Afterward we drove over to Goldfield Ghost Town — which is both cheesier and more fun than I expected. Some folks dressed up like old-timey sheriffs waved at us, and there was this faint smell of fried food drifting from the Mammoth Saloon. We grabbed lunch there (I got something called “cowboy chili” — pretty sure my mouth is still recovering) and poked around some dusty shops. You can take a little train ride if you want or even zipline over part of the town, which looked hilarious watching someone’s hat fly off mid-zip.

I keep thinking about that quiet moment on the mountain though. It sticks with you longer than any souvenir or silly photo ever could.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sonoran Desert and Superstition Mountain

• Depart Scottsdale for Sonoran desert
• Drive through tribal farm land
• Drive historic Apache Trail
• Hike on Superstition Mountain
• Visit Lost Dutchman's Mine area
• Explore Goldfield Ghost Mining Town
• Enjoy western activities in Goldfield
• Lunch at Mammoth Saloon

Top questions

How difficult is the hike on Superstition Mountain?

The hike is mild and suitable for travelers with moderate fitness; it isn’t strenuous.

Is lunch included in the tour?

No, lunch is not included but there’s time to eat at Mammoth Saloon in Goldfield Ghost Town.

Does this day trip include pickup?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; travelers meet at the departure point in Phoenix.

What should I bring for the Superstition Mountain hike?

Bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and water (bottled water is provided).

Are children allowed on this tour?

Infants must sit on an adult’s lap; check fitness requirements for older children.

Can pregnant travelers join this trip?

This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers due to mild hiking involved.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near the meeting point.

What activities are available at Goldfield Ghost Town?

You can try ziplining, railroad rides, shopping or take a gold mine tour at Goldfield Ghost Town.

What’s included

Your day includes bottled water throughout the trip as you explore Superstition Mountain by foot with a local guide before heading to Goldfield Ghost Town where you’ll have time for lunch at Mammoth Saloon or just wander around soaking up old west vibes before returning to Phoenix.