Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Elevation Gain
515.00 ft (156.97 m)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
12.60 mi (20.28 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.

Jacob’s Crosscut Trail #58 is a 12.5-mile out-and-back trail that runs north-south across the western slopes of the Superstition Mountains. It extends between the Broadway Trailhead (in the south) and the Jacob's Crosscut Trail #58 Trailhead (in the north). The trail is located within Tonto National Forest, east of Phoenix, Arizona.

Jacob’s Crosscut Trail #58 is a fairly flat and easy trail, with an overall elevation gain of approximately 515-feet. It offers stunning views of the Superstition Mountains as well as a variety of Sonoran Desert vegetation. It provides a good overview of the area and would be a good choice for those looking to gain more experience hiking in the desert. 

The trail can also be used as a jumping off point for exploration. On its way, it passes several trails that provide access to the deeper parts of the Superstition Wilderness. Among these trails are:

  • Goldmine Trail

  • Monument Canyon Trail

  • Broadway Cave Trail

  • Superstition Ridgeline

  • Prospector’s Trail

BROADWAY TRAILHEAD

The Broadway Trailhead is located at the end of South Broadway Road. It is within a residential neighborhood and features a small parking area. 

CROSSCUT TRAILHEAD

Crosscut Trailhead is located within the Lost Dutchman State Park which charges a fee to enter. 

CONSIDERATIONS

  • This trail offers little to no shade or water. 

  • Wearing sun protective clothing is recommended. 

  • Bring enough food and water to sustain you on your trek.

  • Water collected in the area should be treated before drinking.

  • Summer temperatures can be extreme. 

  • You could arrange a shuttle and turn it into a point-to-point if you want to shorten the distance. 

  • As a result of its accessibility, the trail is very popular. Do not expect solitude along this route as you are likely to encounter other hikers, especially as you get closer to the Lost Dutchman State Park. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Lost Dutchman State Park

USFS - Jacob's Crosscut Trail #58

Logistics + Planning

Congestion

High

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Sonoran Desert plants. Mountain views. Well marked trail.

Cons

Little shade and little water. Can be crowded.

Trailhead Elevation

1,871.00 ft (570.28 m)

Highest point

2,246.00 ft (684.58 m)

Features

Wildlife
Backcountry camping
Big vistas
Bird watching
Historically significant
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

Comments

Have updates, photos, alerts, or just want to leave a comment?
Sign In and share them.