Arizona Trailblazers Hiking Club
First Water Canyon to Acacia Day Hike
when January 11, 2025 Saturday
where Superstitions
the hike
    We begin the hike at the Needles Vista parking lot, proceeding east to Hackberry Springs and then north, following First Water Creek. The first mile or two was severely burned last summer, which has made the hiking easier as we can now hike on the benches on either side of the creek. As we approach Canyon Lake, the creek enters a deep canyon with high cliffs on either side. The last two miles require some agility for rock hopping and threading our way through boulder tangles. Eventually we reach a spot where pools block our way. Here, we head east, climbing a ridge which gives us beautiful views of the Supes and Canyon Lake. We follow the ridge to a saddle overlooking the lake, then descend a steep hillside. This is the slowest and most difficult section. When we reach the Yachin Cliffs above Acacia point, we go through a short tunnel which exits directly above the parking lot.
Required:
•  Sturdy hiking boots
•  At least 3 liters of water
Recommended:
•  Gloves
•  Hiking poles
•  Camera
distance 8 miles one way
time 7 hours
EC 1000' elevation change
type one way
starting at Needles Vista parking lot.
on trail Mostly off-trail, with slick rock and bouldering.
rating "A"     Rate yourself as a hiker. Limit: 15 hikers
dogs allowed no
cost Shuttle drivers will require a Tonto Pass or Golden Age Pass to park at Acacia.
Sharing gas expenses with the driver.
The club also allows voluntary contributions of $5 per non-member.
weather Apache Junction
leader    You must email the leader to confirm. Limited to 15 hikers.
meet 8:00 AM at the Home Depot in Mesa on the southeast corner of Power and US 60, near the Burger King.
drive To Needles Vista parking lot on north side of Az 88.
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updated December 19, 2024