Hiking Flatiron at the Superstition Mountains - Insider Info

Our private country club and guard gated golf community is nestled at the base of the majestic Superstition Mountains. Many of our members enjoy active, outdoors lifestyles and we have several who are avid hikers. The Superstitions, part of the Lost Dutchman State Park, offer a variety of trails well-suited for hikers of all levels, but those looking for the biggest challenge tackle Flatiron.

Learn more about the park in our blog: History of the Superstition Mountains

Flatiron is the mountain’s summit, accessed via the Siphon Draw trail and, while it’s a popular spot, the path all the way up to the plateau isn’t technically a recognized trail. The total distance to the peak and back down is roughly six miles. You’ll face a 2,000+ elevation gain from the trailhead with some difficult, vertical climbs and no switchbacks to ease the ascent. The path is often very steep and rocky. This one is not for beginners, or the faint of heart, and NOT recommend during the summer months.

A group of members set out on the excursion and we asked them to share a little about the experience and what advice they would offer those thinking about making the journey to the peak.

What was the best part of the experience?

“I did the hike with a large group. It was a lot of fun for us to finish together and talk about the challenging aspects of the hike that we’d all just overcome. The views at the top were amazing.” ~ Mandi Pokorney

“Hiking with friends from Superstition is the best hiking. It’s nice to not have to be in a hurry and get to enjoy the experience and the outdoors, fresh air and of course the beautiful landscape.”  ~ Rita Meis

What advice would you give someone planning to hike Flatiron?

“The best advice I would give is to bring plenty of water and a walking stick and know where you are going. All Trails is a free app that has wonderful trails for Lost Dutchman and the Superstition Mountains. Wear good hiking shoes as the terrain is rocky and rough.” ~Rita Meis

“This hike is not well marked so go with someone that’s hiked Flatiron before or do your research before you go. Take plenty of food and water and take your time going up and stop to admire the views along the way.  The hike requires you to use your upper body, there are several areas you will be climbing large boulders and sometimes you have to be creative to figure out the best way to pass through a particular area.” ~ Mandi Pokorney

Did anything about the experience surprise you?

“The hike was much harder than I imagined it would be but it was also a very rewarding experience.  The hike has so many different aspects, enjoy each of the different parts. Watch others pass through hard spots if needed, we even asked others on the hike for help at times. Looking up at the top once the hike was completed was very cool and hard to imagine we’d just been at the top hours before!” ~ Mandi Pokorney

“What surprises me the most when hiking is seeing people with flip flops on and no water, we are in the desert! Every plant is meant to hurt you and the jumping Chollas are real. Make sure you have pliers and band-aids with you in case you do (and you will!) get cholla stuck in your shoe or body.” ~Rita Meis

Any tips for preparation and/or recovery?

“Before any hike make sure you are fit enough to do it. Walk your neighborhood first to

see how you feel. Most hikes are 3-5 miles long. A lot of that is an elevation gain so know you will be going uphill. And, most of all, STRECTH before and after hikes and drink lots of water.” ~Rita Meis

“The hike is about 6 miles, so make sure you get some miles in before attempting to hike, maybe even do some incline work on the treadmill.  After the hike, keep moving because you’ll be sore for a few days. Hydrate before and after the hike!” ~ Mandi Pokorney

No matter which if the Superstition trails you take on, it’s sure to be a picturesque, rewarding experience. But, before you head out on your own mountain adventure, be sure you are prepared and know how to stay safe out on the trials. For more tips, check out our Phoenix hiking tips and backpack essentials guide.