Home > Travel > State Parks > Arizona > Lost Dutchman State Park

The Park
Named after the fabled lost gold mine, this park is located in the Sonoran Desert at an elevation of 2000 feet. The park offers a variety of hiking trails, nature trails, 70 regular campsites, picnic facilities, and special programs throughout the year.

Mild winter climates and the close proximity to the Valley of the Sun makes this an ideal destination for many. During the winter, daytime temperatures usually reach about 60°F, while the summer months can see temperatures soar above 100°F.

History
The Superstition Mountains have been a source of mystery and legend since early times. The area is dotted with ancient cliff dwellings and caves, many showing signs of former habitation by a number of different Native American groups, up until the 1800's. Even the name is inspired by Pima Indian legends.

During the 1840's, the Peralta family of northern Mexico supposedly developed a rich gold mine in the Superstitions. According to legend, an Apache ambush ended the family's last expedition, and the gold remained in the area. In the 1870's, Jacob Waltz ("the Dutchman") was said to have located the mine through the aid of the Peralta descendant. Waltz and his partner, Jacob Weiser, worked in the mine and allegedly hid one or more caches of gold in the Superstitions. Most stories place the gold in the vicinity of Weaver's Needle.

After Waltz's death in 1891, several people attempted to seek out the Lost Dutchman's Mine, all without luck. Later searchers have sometimes met with foul play or even death, contributing to the superstition and legend of these mountains.

The legend of the "lost mine" has been fueled by a number of people who were supposed to have known the mine's location or even worked it. Maps have surfaced over the years, only to become lost or misplaced.

Trails
Please use caution when hiking at the park. Those planning to use the longer trails should carry a topographic map. Each person should carry at least one gallon of drinking water per day. Remember summer temperatures often exceed 100°F.

Treasure Loop Trail: Length 2.4 miles round trip, rated moderate, elevation change of 500 feet. It terminates at either picnic area.

Prospector's View Trail: Length 0.7 miles, rated moderate. It connects Siphon Draw Trail with Treasure Loop Trail also connects with Jacob's Crosscut Trail.

Jacob's Crosscut Trail: Trail runs 0.8 miles along the base of the mountain, rated easy. It connects Treasure Loop Trail with Prospector's View Trail, and continues 4.5 miles past the park area along the base of the Superstitions.

Siphon Draw Trail: 4 miles round trip, a very scenic hike, this trail winds up into a canyon known as Siphon Draw. It is possible to hike up the Flatiron (5.8 miles roundtrip), although it is not a designated, maintained trail all the way. It's advised that only experienced hikers in good shape attempt to hike to the top, as the climb is steep and difficult to follow. Allow at least five hours to the Flatiron and back.

Discovery Trail: Connects the campground and day use areas. Features information signs, a wildlife pond, bird feeder and viewing bench.

Group-Use Facilities

Facilities: Group camping area, group picnic ramada.

Amenities: Ramadas, tables, water, fire pit, grills, electric (group picnic area Ramada).

Maximum Group Size: Camping area – 150 people, picnic area – 100 people.

Picnic Areas: Yes (1).

Reservation Policy: $25 for picnic ramada, $25 for camping area.

Restrictions: General park rules and regulations.

Hours: Sunrise to 10pm, 2pm check out for campers.

Group Use Fees: Fees apply. Please call for current fees.

After Hour Fees: Yes.

Contact Name and Phone Number: Park Staff – (480) 982-4485.

Rules and Regulations

• No ground fires or wood collecting in park.
• Damage or removal of natural rocks, vegetation, or public property is prohibited.
• Keep pets on leash.
• Obey all firearm regulations.
• Prevent loud nuisance noises.
• Two vehicles per campsite, maximum 12 people.
• Camping permitted in designated sites only.
• There is a 15 day stay limit for campground.
• Checkout time is 2:00 p.m.
• Quiet hours are 9:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m.

Nearby Attractions
Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park, Superstition Mountains, Tonto National Forest, Apache Trail, and Apache, Canyon, Saguaro & Roosevelt Lakes.