Queen Creek Tunnel US 60 Arizona
Explore the historic Queen Creek Tunnel and abandoned US 60, a relic of Arizona's past offering scenic desert views and a unique hiking experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Queen Creek Tunnel US 60 Arizona
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the historic Queen Creek Tunnel and abandoned US 60, a relic of Arizona's past offering scenic desert views and a unique hiking experience.
"A must-see for history buffs and explorers, offering a tangible connection to Arizona's road-building past."
Look for the Turn-off
The access road is just after the current tunnel. Go slow and be ready to exit! :car:
Limited Parking
Parking is scarce, especially on weekends. Arrive early or be prepared to wait. :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Queen Creek Tunnel
US 60, near Superior, Arizona
Explore the historic 1920s-30s tunnel, a relic of old US 60, now part of the Lost Superior Trail.
Abandoned US 60 Roadway
Adjacent to the Queen Creek Tunnel
Hike or explore the remnants of the original, winding US 60 highway, offering scenic views.
Queen Creek Bridge
Overlooking the canyon
Catch a glimpse of the modern Queen Creek Bridge, a stark contrast to the historic surroundings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing the Old Highway
Respect the History and Environment
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Look for the Turn-off
The access road is just after the current tunnel. Go slow and be ready to exit! :car:
Limited Parking
Parking is scarce, especially on weekends. Arrive early or be prepared to wait. :car:
Wear Sturdy Shoes
The old road can be uneven. Comfortable walking shoes are a must. :athletic_shoe:
Pack Out Trash
Help keep this historic site clean. Leave no trace behind. :recycle:
Tips
from all over the internet
Look for the Turn-off
The access road is just after the current tunnel. Go slow and be ready to exit! :car:
Limited Parking
Parking is scarce, especially on weekends. Arrive early or be prepared to wait. :car:
Wear Sturdy Shoes
The old road can be uneven. Comfortable walking shoes are a must. :athletic_shoe:
Pack Out Trash
Help keep this historic site clean. Leave no trace behind. :recycle:
Research the History
Learn about the tunnel's past for a richer experience. Incredible history! :books:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Queen Creek Tunnel and abandoned US 60 for its historical significance and scenic beauty, offering a unique glimpse into Arizona's past. However, many note the disappointment of vandalism and litter, urging visitors to be respectful of the site.
"Arizona visitors must see!! Beautiful views, historical. Be respectful, stop the graffiti.
Rock climbing hooks?! Soooo many bats making cool noise."
Suse
"Have been wanting to explore this for years! Wasn't exactly sure how to find it, so when we came upon it I was pleasantly surprised. It was on the Lost superior trail, along side the new tunnel"
Jason Burlingame
"The tunnel is only a short walk from the parking area off of US 60, about 1/4 mile. The light from the sun was hitting it in just the right way when I arrived. The first two pictures are facing westward into the tunnel, and the third one is west of the tunnel still facing west."
liyostr570
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The abandoned Queen Creek Tunnel is located off US 60 near Superior, Arizona. Look for the turn-off for the Lost Superior Trail just after you exit the current Queen Creek Tunnel when heading west. Parking is limited right at the trailhead.
Yes, there is limited parking available at the trailhead for the Lost Superior Trail, which leads to the old tunnel. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, as it can fill up quickly.
No, the old Queen Creek Tunnel is part of an abandoned highway and is not accessible by vehicle. It's now a historical site and part of a hiking trail.
The abandoned US 60 roadway is accessible from the same trailhead as the Queen Creek Tunnel. You can walk along the old road for several miles, enjoying the historic route and scenic views.
The access road and the abandoned highway are not suitable for RVs or large vehicles. It's best to park your vehicle at the designated area and explore on foot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to visit the Queen Creek Tunnel and the abandoned US 60 roadway. It's a free public access area.
The Queen Creek Tunnel and surrounding area are open to the public during daylight hours. There are no official operating hours, but it's best to visit when there is sufficient natural light for safety and exploration.
There are no entrance fees for the Queen Creek Tunnel or the abandoned US 60 highway. However, if you plan on rock climbing in the area, permits may be required.
The Queen Creek Tunnel and the Lost Superior Trail are generally accessible year-round. However, it's always a good idea to check local weather conditions, especially during monsoon season or winter months, as conditions can change rapidly in the desert.
Visiting the tunnel at night is not recommended due to safety concerns and lack of lighting. It's best to explore during daylight hours.
📸 📸 Photography
The best times for photography are during the 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset. The light can create dramatic shadows and highlight the textures of the old tunnel and roadway.
You can capture historical shots of the tunnel and old highway, scenic desert landscapes, and potentially wildlife. The contrast between the old infrastructure and the natural environment is a popular subject.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) or local authorities regarding drone usage in this area to ensure compliance.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the tunnel and landscape. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions or long exposures. Don't forget extra batteries! :camerawithflash:
While graffiti is present, you can try to frame your shots to focus on the historical architecture and natural scenery. Some photographers embrace the urban decay aesthetic.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
You can explore the historic Queen Creek Tunnel, walk along the abandoned US 60 roadway, enjoy scenic desert views, and for experienced climbers, there are rock climbing opportunities.
Exploring the tunnel itself is quick, but walking along the old highway can take an hour or more, depending on how far you go. Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the area.
There are no dedicated restrooms or facilities at the Queen Creek Tunnel site. It's recommended to use facilities in Superior before you arrive.
The trail to the tunnel and along the old highway is generally considered easy to moderate. The terrain can be uneven in places, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, a hat, sturdy shoes, and a camera. Snacks are also a good idea as there are no services nearby.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for Families: Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities. Ensure children wear sturdy shoes as the terrain can be uneven. Keep a close eye on them, especially near any drop-offs or climbing areas. Discuss the importance of not littering and respecting the environment.
🚶 Hikers and Outdoor Enthusiasts
Recommendations: Combine your visit with other trails in the Superstition Mountains area for a longer day hike. Be prepared for desert conditions: carry ample water, wear sun protection, and check the weather forecast. The unique historical aspect of the abandoned highway adds an extra layer of interest to your outdoor adventure.
📸 Photographers
Photography Tips: Aim for the golden hours for dramatic lighting. Capture the scale of the tunnel with wide-angle shots. Look for interesting textures and details on the old road. Be mindful of graffiti, and consider how you can incorporate or exclude it from your compositions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the Queen Creek Tunnel
The old US 60 roadway that the tunnel is part of was eventually deemed unsafe and too narrow for modern traffic. This led to the construction of a new, larger tunnel and highway alignment nearby, which is what visitors use today. The abandoned section, including the Queen Creek Tunnel, was preserved as a historical site and is now accessible for exploration via the Lost Superior Trail.
Exploring the Abandoned US 60
As you traverse the old road, you'll encounter breathtaking desert vistas. Keep an eye out for remnants of the past, such as old road markers or even discarded vehicles that have succumbed to the elements over time.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit