First Water Trailhead
Gateway to the rugged Superstition Wilderness, offering challenging hikes and the legendary Apache Trail scenic drive.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, water sources available
First Water Trailhead
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, water sources available
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Gateway to the rugged Superstition Wilderness, offering challenging hikes and the legendary Apache Trail scenic drive.
"A prime trailhead for exploring the dramatic desert landscapes of the Superstition Mountains."
🚗 4x4 for Fish Creek Hill
High-clearance 4x4 needed for Fish Creek Hill on Apache Trail. Paved sections are accessible to most vehicles.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots Essential
Rocky and steep terrain demands good tread and ankle support for hikes like the Needle loop.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.8 · 8 reviews
Type
Hiking Area
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dutchman's Trail
Connects directly from First Water Trailhead
Embark on the iconic Trans-Superstition route, a gateway to diverse desert landscapes and challenging hikes.
Battleship Mountain
Accessible via First Water Trailhead
Conquer this strenuous 12-mile hike with 2,000 ft gain, featuring sheer cliffs and rewarding panoramic views.
Apache Trail Scenic Drive
Route 88, east of Apache Junction
Experience a legendary drive through dramatic red-hued cliffs, with access to Canyon Lake and Apache Lake.
La Barge Canyon
Accessible from First Water Trailhead
Discover this hidden gem within the Superstition Mountains, offering a more remote and adventurous hiking experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing the Apache Trail
Best Footwear for the Terrain
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 4x4 for Fish Creek Hill
High-clearance 4x4 needed for Fish Creek Hill on Apache Trail. Paved sections are accessible to most vehicles.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots Essential
Rocky and steep terrain demands good tread and ankle support for hikes like the Needle loop.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Bring sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and long sleeves, even in spring when temperatures can reach the 70s.
💧 Filter Water Sources
Water sources are available for filtering during spring hikes, but always check current conditions.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 4x4 for Fish Creek Hill
High-clearance 4x4 needed for Fish Creek Hill on Apache Trail. Paved sections are accessible to most vehicles.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots Essential
Rocky and steep terrain demands good tread and ankle support for hikes like the Needle loop.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Bring sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and long sleeves, even in spring when temperatures can reach the 70s.
💧 Filter Water Sources
Water sources are available for filtering during spring hikes, but always check current conditions.
📱 No Service in Backcountry
Expect no phone service on many trails; inform someone of your plans before heading out.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise First Water Trailhead as a prime access point to the stunning Superstition Wilderness, offering trails for all levels. The scenic Apache Trail drive is a major draw, though some note the need for 4x4 vehicles for certain sections. Hikers appreciate the natural beauty but advise caution regarding the rocky terrain and desert heat.
"First Water Trailhead is a main TH in the northern Superstition Wilderness. First Water Trailhead is about 2 ½ miles down maintained dirt road (First Water) from Apache Trail 88. The road can be rough and washed out during storms but usually accessible to most vehicles. The lot has parking, trail and information maps and bathrooms. During season it also has Forest Service volunteer rangers at peak hours. At busy times the lot fills up fast and people park overflow down the road at the First Water Horse Lot, and then hike back. From the trailhead, visitors can access the Dutchman’s trail #104, which is a Trans-Superstition route that runs all the way through the wilderness north to south. Of course it therefore eventually connects to all the trails in the mountains. The Second Water #236 junction is also near this trailhead (TH). The trails run from easy to extremely difficult depending upon your goal and destination."
Scott Hika
"We hiked in 5 miles, did a 10 mile loop around the needle on day 2, and hiked out on day 3. The hike in to the Dutchman trail head was pretty easy and flat. The hike around the needle was much more difficult terrain. This was in the spring and we didn't have any issues finding water sources to filter from. This hike is mostly done over rock, so I would recommend foot gear with a little thicker tread.
A fun hike, but even in the spring it got into the 70s, so bring sunscreen, a wide brimmed hat, and long sleeves."
James M
"Great area to hike out of. Sad it is on fire."
Debra Coray
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
First Water Trailhead is located about 2.5 miles down a maintained dirt road (First Water Road) off Apache Trail (State Route 88) east of Apache Junction, Arizona. The road is usually accessible to most vehicles, but can be rough and washed out after storms.
The Apache Trail (Route 88) is now fully open, allowing travel from Apache Junction all the way to Roosevelt Dam. However, sections like Fish Creek Hill require a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle. +1
Absolutely! The Apache Trail is a legendary scenic byway known for its dramatic bronze and red-hued cliffs, winding roads, and stunning desert vistas. +1
The paved sections are generally good, but the unpaved portions, especially Fish Creek Hill, can be narrow, winding, and rough. A high-clearance 4x4 is recommended for the more challenging parts. +1
Yes, Goldfield Ghost Town is located in Apache Junction, near the start of the Apache Trail, and is a popular attraction for visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no specific entrance fee mentioned for First Water Trailhead itself. However, it's always a good idea to check with the Tonto National Forest for any potential permit requirements or fees for specific activities or overnight stays.
Trailheads are generally accessible during daylight hours. It's advisable to start your hike with enough daylight to complete it safely.
For day hikes, permits are typically not required. However, for overnight backpacking trips, a Wilderness Permit is generally needed. It's best to verify current regulations with the Tonto National Forest.
Yes, there is a parking lot at First Water Trailhead. It can fill up quickly during peak times, leading to overflow parking down the road at the First Water Horse Lot.
Yes, First Water Trailhead is equipped with bathrooms for visitors.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The Dutchman's Trail #104 is a major route accessible from here, leading to various other trails. Battleship Mountain is a challenging but rewarding hike, and La Barge Canyon offers a more remote adventure. 
Hikes range from easy to extremely difficult. The hike in to the Dutchman's Trailhead is relatively flat, while routes like the Needle loop or Battleship Mountain involve steep, rocky terrain and significant elevation gain.
During spring, water sources are often available for filtering. However, it's crucial to check current conditions and carry sufficient water, as sources can be unreliable.
No, there is generally no cell service in the backcountry areas accessed from First Water Trailhead. It's important to be prepared and inform someone of your hiking plans.
The Superstition Mountains are home to various desert wildlife. Be aware of your surroundings and practice Leave No Trace principles.
📸 📸 Photography
The dramatic red-hued cliffs of the Superstition Mountains, the turquoise waters of Canyon Lake, and the expansive desert vistas offer incredible photographic opportunities. Sunrise and sunset can provide stunning light. +1
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for landscape photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Sunrise at Canyon Lake is particularly beautiful.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check with the Tonto National Forest and adhere to all airspace restrictions before flying a drone in the area.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife or distant mountain features. A sturdy tripod is recommended for low-light conditions.
Many viewpoints along the Apache Trail offer breathtaking scenery. Pull-offs near Canyon Lake and overlooks of the Superstition Mountains are highly recommended.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit