Uploaded June 2026 | Updated September 2026, 1 week ago
In this video, I take an off-trail approach to the Superstition Ridgeline through Old West Boulder Canyon. Old West is a rugged offshoot of West Boulder Canyon that climbs toward the base of Peak 5,024, offering a challenging and rarely traveled route through some of the most unforgiving terrain in the Superstitions.
⚠️ Conditions were extremely dangerous, with temperatures reaching 102°F. Do not attempt hikes like this during excessive heat unless you are acclimated and experienced in this terrain and temperature. The combination of steep off-trail terrain, exposure, and high temperatures can quickly become life-threatening.
Originally planning a longer loop, I decided to cut the route short in the interest of safety and efficiency. From the ridgeline, I descended via the western side of Massacre Falls Ridgeline before taking a direct line from the Massacre Falls Trail to First Water Road. A brisk road walk completed the 12.9-mile loop.
This was one of the most physically demanding hikes I've done in the Superstition Wilderness. By the end, I was thrilled to crank the AC and escape the blistering desert sun. This is about as difficult as it gets.
Distance: 12.9 miles
Elevation Gain: 3,627'
Location: Superstition Wilderness, Arizona
Route: Dutchman #104 → West Boulder Canyon → Old West Boulder Canyon → Superstition Ridgeline → Massacre Falls Ridgeline → Massacre Falls Trail → First Water Road
In this video, I take an off-trail approach to the Superstition Ridgeline through Old West Boulder Canyon. Old West is a rugged offshoot of West Boulder Canyon that climbs toward the base of Peak 5,024, offering a challenging and rarely traveled route through some of the most unforgiving terrain in the Superstitions.
⚠️ Conditions were extremely dangerous, with temperatures reaching 102°F. Do not attempt hikes like this during excessive heat unless you are acclimated and experienced in this terrain and temperature. The combination of steep off-trail terrain, exposure, and high temperatures can quickly become life-threatening.
Originally planning a longer loop, I decided to cut the route short in the interest of safety and efficiency. From the ridgeline, I descended via the western side of Massacre Falls Ridgeline before taking a direct line from the Massacre Falls Trail to First Water Road. A brisk road walk completed the 12.9-mile loop.
This was one of the most physically demanding hikes I've done in the Superstition Wilderness. By the end, I was thrilled to crank the AC and escape the blistering desert sun. This is about as difficult as it gets.
Distance: 12.9 miles
Elevation Gain: 3,627'
Location: Superstition Wilderness, Arizona
Route: Dutchman #104 → West Boulder Canyon → Old West Boulder Canyon → Superstition Ridgeline → Massacre Falls Ridgeline → Massacre Falls Trail → First Water Road
