2 HIKES - Little Four Peaks - Apache Trail (Hwy. 88) & Peak 2276 - Canyon Lake

About this event

Please do take the time to read this entire post. There is a lot of helpful information in here, and it will assist all hikers if everyone is well informed prior to this endeavor.

First Hike - Little Four Peaks Here's a short hike we've been enjoying, and once again wanted to share with our 3H family. The trail has changed a few times over the last many years, but we'll take you on our favorite route to the top. We don't use instrumentation on our adventures, but we'd imagine this is 2 to 2.5 miles out and back, with an accumulated gain of around 1000 feet. A nice stretch of the legs taking us just outside the Superstition Wilderness border. Gorgeous 360 degree views. Weather's just right. Come on out and give it a try!

There are a few trail junctions along this route, and they are all unmarked, so let's try to stick together, or, at least, not get too far ahead or behind the pack. We will stop at each junction to assure we have everybody, but if you are ahead of the hike leaders, you are on your own. We find walking sticks/poles helpful on this hike, though they are not required. Long pants would also be of good use.

Directions to Little Four Peaks parking: From Apache Junction, follow Hwy. 88 beyond Lost Dutchman State Park to about 1/4 mile past milepost 205. There is a gravel parking lot on the left (sometimes referred to as "Apache Gap") where our hike will begin. As you drive past the State Park, notice Four Peaks in the distance and the smaller, closer Little Four Peaks mimicking it in the foreground, and you will understand how they have come to be known as Little Four Peaks. Note: After completion of the first hike, we will go back to the parking lot to carpool to the second hike.

Second Hike - Peak 2276 - Goldfield Mountains This hike is about 2 mile, and 550 feet of accumulated elevation gain with great views of Canyon Lake. The currently lowered water level has created spectacular and unique views of Canyon Lake. These two hikes, are about 4-5 miles of total distance. A jacket or other garment might be helpful, as well, as it is often a bit cool, and windier, up top, especially on our second hike overlooking Canyon Lake.

TIME: Expect to spend 3.5-4 hours on these treks depending on the group's speed. DIFFICULTY: This hike would be considered moderate by most.

What to Bring: Plenty of water (we'd suggest 2 liters at a minimum), sunscreen, a hat, proper hiking shoes, a snack, electrolytes, your camera and your love of the trails.

NOTE: There are NO FACILITIES at these trailheads. Please plan accordingly.

Directions to Peak 2276 - Canyon Lake VERY IMPORTANT: The pullout and parking area is just dirt and loose gravel. Manageable by most any vehicle, and only 30 feet off the road, but thought we should mention it. Due to the nature of this hike, and the smaller trailhead, we will limit this hike to make sure we can accommodate everyone at the trailhead and along the trails. If you have a high clearance vehicle, we ask that you pull in a bit further and go farther up the dirt road to allow other cars to park nearer the front entrance to this small parking area.

From Hiking Hikers Hiking Group ("3H")