Explore Hidden Caves And Ogle Ancient Rock Formations On This Fairy Tale Trail In Arizona
By Katie Lawrence|Published August 26, 2022
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
There are a great many fairytale hikes in Arizona that seem to grow more enchanting with every step you take. One of our favorites is the Fremont Saddle via Peralta Canyon Trail, located in the Superstition Wilderness. With ancient, spindly rock formations, hidden caves, and lush greenery, it’s a storybook come to life.
You don't have to look long or hard to find fairytale hikes in Arizona, and one of our favorites is the Fremont Saddle via Peralta Canyon Trail in the Superstition Wilderness.
One of the most popular trails in the area, this moderately difficult hike is just under five miles long and features an elevation gain of around 1,350 feet. It's a gradual uphill ascent as opposed to a steep climb, so most recreational hikers shouldn't encounter any trouble.
The views from the get-go are simply astonishing. Jagged rock spires jut out from the surrounding canyonlands, and lush vegetation makes you feel like you're walking through a storybook land.
Along the way, you'll come across several caves that blend in so seamlessly with the terrain, you could almost miss them. Who knows what's hiding in the dark abyss?
Native desert flora thrives in this rugged oasis, including the majestic Saguaro cactus. You'll see hundreds, if not thousands, of them scattered about - can you spot the face on this one?
From the summit (also known as the "saddle") hikers can enjoy sweeping panoramic views of Weaver's Needle and other nearby peaks. Definitely plan on spending some time soaking up the scenery before embarking on the return trip back to the trailhead.
If you'd like to tack on some additional miles to your journey, several other trails connect to Fremont Saddle via Peralta Canyon. Write your own fairytale - the sky is the limit!
Please note: the drive to the parking lot for the trail is a 6.5-mile dirt road, so keep that in mind (and take the weather conditions into account) when planning your trip.
Have you ever hiked the Fremont Saddle via Peralta Canyon Trail? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience! Tell us in the comments. Don’t forget to check out our previous article for a creepy urban legend about the nearby Superstition Mountains.
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