Backpacking with shuttle in Superstitions- looking for suggestions

[sscalzo]

I have an opportunity to be dropped off at one of the superstition wilderness trailheads and picked up a day later somewhere else and curious what type of suggestions someone could point me to? I've got some experience backpacking in the Sups but its been 5+ years so could really use some guidance from those out there recently. Off the top of my head, i would say Peralta trailhead and picked up at Boulder Canyon. Does that sound like a good idea and where would you suggest camping? Or - any other ideas would greatly be appreciated? I'm thinking of waiting until it warms up a bit - likely April. Thanks!

[SuperstitionGuy]

I recommend that whichever route you choose that you look for WATER SOURCES first as you hike and the ending trailhead second. Also leave with a friend your route and do not deviate from it in case you are overdue and the searchers and Sheriffs helicopter are looking for you where you are not and never were. As in April many water sources will have dried up and the temperatures can be quite high.

Many years ago a middle aged couple started from the Boulder Canyon headed for Peralta but changed their plans after they started hiking. It was harder than they imagined and the wife only took enough of her medications for two days. The Sheriffs helicopter and the Superstition Search and rescue put all their search teams on the given route. Late on day three a hiker came running into the search camp reporting seeing them on the trail west of Weavers Needle and that he the wife was having serious trouble. They reached the top of Peralta Trail and were out of water and exhausted but were found there by the rerouted helicopter. If they hadn't been reported as seen by the hiker she probably would have lost her life.

Also keep in mind that the Superstitions are split in two with the County line that runs from east to the west. Who are you gonna call when you are hiking in both counties? Or are both Counties going to assume that you are being searched for by the other County?????

[nonot]

Peralta to Boulder sounds like a nice trip. In general this western area of the wilderness is popular and there are campsite opportunities along all the trails. In April many of the creeks will typically start to dry up, in typical years though some will remain flowing lightly or still have pools at that time. It also depends on whether there is recent rain. Know where the reliable springs are, which for your itinerary are likely La Barge or Charlesbois.

[hikeaz]

Waterholes notwithstanding, I would look at the fire map and avoid most/all of the torched areas.