Prospector Trail

The Prospector Trail loops through the desert foothills at the base of the Superstition Mountains, offering sweeping panoramic views of one of Arizona's most legendary mountain ranges. Named in honor of the prospectors who scoured these rugged hills searching for the fabled Lost Dutchman's Gold Mine, the trail traverses classic Sonoran Desert terrain through a mixed community of saguaro, palo verde, and desert scrub. Moderate elevation gain carries hikers up onto a broad ridgeline where views extend across the entire park and out toward the Phoenix metropolitan area to the west. The Superstition Mountains rise dramatically to the east, their volcanic cliffs glowing orange and red in the morning and evening light. Rock formations along the route provide excellent habitat for lizards, snakes, and small mammals, while raptors are frequently spotted riding thermals overhead. The loop design means hikers experience constantly changing perspectives and terrain. The trail connects with other park routes, allowing for longer combinations. Bring plenty of water as shade is limited along much of the route. Fall through spring offers the most comfortable conditions, with spring wildflower displays being particularly impressive following good winter rainfall across the Sonoran Desert landscape.