Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Elevation Gain
2,526.00 ft (769.92 m)
Trail type
Loop
Distance
15.10 mi (24.30 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Bluff Spring Loop is a 15-mile loop route through the Superstition Wilderness. It begins at Peralta Trailhead and follows Bluff Springs Trail #235 north, circumnavigating Bluff Spring Mountain Canyon in a counterclockwise direction. It crosses rocky terrain with some steep sections and gains an overall elevation of 2,565 feet. The landscape features jagged peaks, scenic vistas, and native desert plants including the saguaro cactus which are only found in the Sonoran Desert. 

This route can be completed in a day or overnight and is open to trail running, hiking, and backpacking. 

DIRECTIONS

From Peralta Trailhead, follow Bluff Springs Trail #235 north to Bluff Spring Canyon. Continue north on Dutchman Trail #104 to LaBarge Canyon. After Charlebois Canyon and Marsh Valley, follow the trail south to Terrapin Canyon. Follow Terrapin Canyon Trail #237 to Bluff Saddle, then retrace your steps along Bluff Spring Trail #235 back to Peralta Trailhead.

REGULATIONS

  • Mechanized and/or motorized travel is prohibited.

  • No more than 15 people are allowed to be in a group. 

  • No more than 15 heads of livestock are allowed in a group.

  • Horses are not recommended on this trail. 

This route takes place within the Superstition Wilderness, which is subject to certain Wilderness restrictions. Respecting these regulations is crucial for the future of this beautiful ecosystem and the plants and animals that live there. 

WATER

Visitors are advised to check with a nearby park ranger or contact a visitor center in advance for the most current information regarding local creeks, springs, and water sources, and to carry a sufficient amount of water for the day. 

  • This route passes by Charlebois Spring which may have water. 

PERALTA TRAILHEAD INFORMATION

Large parking area with bathrooms. The lot fills up fast and it is best to try and arrive early. 

BACKCOUNTRY CAMPING

Dispersed camping is allowed within the Superstition Wilderness and Backcountry permits are not required for overnight camping.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

USFS - Peralta Trailhead

Bluff Spring Trai

Logistics + Planning

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Beautiful vistas. Wilderness area. Native desert landscapes.

Cons

Trailhead can be crowded.

Trailhead Elevation

2,312.00 ft (704.70 m)

Highest point

3,410.00 ft (1,039.37 m)

Features

Wildlife
Backcountry camping
Big vistas
Geologically significant

Typically multi-day

No

Permit required

No

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

Superstition Mountains Area, Mesa, Arizona
Superstition Mountains Area, Mesa, Arizona
Superstition Mountains Area, Mesa, Arizona

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