Elephant Butte

The Superstition Mountains Wilderness Area is located about 45 minutes east of Phoenix, Arizona. The region has been called a variety of different names throughout the years, from Thunder Mountains to Crooked Mountain Top. But it wasn’t until the 1890s when they were first called the Superstition Mountains. That's when Jacob Waltz wandered out of the hills with gold nuggets and the legend of the Lost Dutchman mine began. Elephant Butte backcountry road is an excellent opportunity to experience the Superstition Mountains without the crowds. It's a gateway to some incredible hiking and the camping is truly amazing. This little known residential and State Trust Land trail allows people to access the boundary of the Superstition Wilderness Area near Queen Valley, Arizona. The trail begins along a golf course and private residence before passing the large natural rock formation that looks like an elephant. The trail winds way back into a scenic canyon, with large cliffs and another large rock formation called Buzzards Roost.