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I'm looking for a nice 3 day, 2 night backpack in the Supes. I'm thinking of starting at Paralta TH and taking Bluff Springs (235) to Dutchman (104) up to Charlebois Spring the first day. Camp at or near Charlebois Spring the first night.

On the way back I was thinking of taking Dutchman to Peralta and then out.

Is there a good place along the Dutchman or upper end of Peralta to spend a second night?

I'm not at all familiar with this area (but am experienced desert hiker). Anything else I should know or see along the way?

I'd be interested in hearing any other routes that would make for 3 days of hiking with probably no more than 8-9 miles a day if there is much elevation gain.

I'd start by planning it around available water sources. There are more available now because of the recent rains but that would dictate the route of a 3 day hike I would plan for the Superstitions. I'd still plan on a gallon a day so running into a reliable source of water on either mid or late in the second day would dictate my route plan if I were doing this. Just a thought. The idea of lugging 3 days worth of water is a major factor. I, like you, can hike but was unfamiliar with hiking in the area more than 4 months ago. I've discovered that one of the biggest things you have to deal with which limits your hiking duration is water availability.

You don't say when you are planning on going, but I was just in the Supes backpacking this week and there is so much water right now that there should be no reason to carry a gallon at a time. Every little drainage had water in it, and the larger ones had so much water that I couldn't cross without getting my feet wet. It is super-green and beautiful out there and the wildflowers are just starting to bloom!

I'm planning on going this weekend (3/6/10). Good to hear about the water, and it sounds like rain is predicted for Sunday, so I should just have to open my mouth and look up!

I will be heading to Charlebois Spring from Peralta Trailhead for this weekend. Sounds like a popular spot this week. Great to hear about the water and flora. I'll be sure to bring my camera.