Hike Detail SheetHikesUpper Intermediate

First Water – Canyon Lake Key Exchange (UI)

By September 11, 2022 December 4th, 2025 No Comments
Approx hike distance (miles): 8.0 Area: Superstition Mountains
Accum.  elevation gain (feet): 1590 Park Entry Fee: No
Low to high elevation gain: N/A SCAMR All Trails Map: Yes
Recommended gas donation: $10 Website for reference info: hikearizona.com/decoder.php?ZTN=664
Unpaved miles: 3 Trailhead GPS Coordinates See below
Road Conditions: Fair High clearance vehicle req’d: No

Please arrive 10 minutes prior to departure to check -in

Trail Conditions
Maintained Trail: Yes Uneven footing Yes
Steep side drop-offs Yes Steep Trail: Yes
Off Trial (scratchy) No Slippery Trail Surfaces: No
Use of hands required: No Boulder Hopping: No
Difficulty: Moderate Water Crossings: No
Restrooms at Trailhead: Yes Gloves Required: No

 

Special Instructions:

This hike is a key-exchange that goes by Garden Valley, Battleship Mtn and offers scenic views of Geronimo Head Mtn and Canyon Lake. Bring water, a snack, and lunch.

Directions:

First Water TH: Felix Rd north, right on Arizona Farms Rd. Left on AZ 79 and left on Hwy 60 West, toward Phoenix. Turn right on Mountain View Road just past Silly Mountain. Continue 4.5 miles to Apache Trail (SR 88) and turn right. Go approx. 2 miles to First Water Trailhead rd. (just past Lost Dutchman State Park). Right on First Water Trailhead Rd until the end of the road.

Canyon Lake TH: Felix Rd north, right on Arizona Farms Rd. Left on AZ 79 and left on Hwy 60 West, toward Phoenix. Turn right on Mountain View Road just past Silly Mountain. Continue 4.5 miles to Apache Trail (SR 88) and turn right. Go approx. 11 miles to Canyon Lake Marina parking lot. Park in the area of the parking lot closest to SR 88. The trailhead is across the road.