Lost Dutchman State Park really checks all of the boxes for a great trip; this park has some of Arizona’s best hiking trails, a fascinating history full of wise tales about hidden gold, and it’s nestled right at the base of the magnificent Superstition Mountains. What more could you possibly ask for?
If you’re as intrigued by Lost Dutchman State Park as we are, keep reading! This article will tell you all about what Lost Dutchman State Park is known for, the area’s must-see spots, hiking trails, park and camping information, and nearby lodging options.
1. What is Lost Dutchman State Park Known for?
Located only 40 miles from Phoenix, Lost Dutchman State Park is located right at the base of the amazing Superstition Mountains and provides a number of ways to entertain the whole family. Visitors come from far and wide to Lost Dutchman State Park; all of them hoping to learn more about the Legend of the Lost Dutchman, enjoy a scenic hike, glide through the 4-mile biking trail, or see what wildlife they can spot.
Legend of the Lost Dutchman
The Superstition Mountains have loomed with mysteries and legends for centuries. In ancient times, hunters and gatherers are thought to have moved across these mountains and lived in their many cliff dwellings and caves. In the 1840s, a family supposedly developed several gold mines in the area. According to wise tales, this family was eventually ambushed by Apache Indians searching for gold. For this reason, the area is often referred to as the Massacre Grounds.
In the decades following the disappearance of the original gold miners, a number of other settlers tried to find their leftover gold. In the 1870s, Jacob Waltz (who is now referred to as “the Lost Dutchman”) allegedly found the gold and hid it in different areas all around the mountains. On his deathbed, he passed along the locations of these hidden treasures to a neighbor who was never successful in locating them. To this day, people from all over the world come to Lost Dutchman State Park in search of the Lost Dutchman’s hidden gold. Many have been unsuccessful and many of them even lost their lives — all adding to the legend surrounding this mysterious area.
Hiking
Lost Dutchman State Park is widely known as one of the best places to hike in all of Arizona! Besides being such a unique feature in the east valley landscape, there are several trails from Lost Dutchman State Park that lead visitors into the neighboring Superstition Mountain Wilderness and surrounding Tonto National Forest. It’s one of our favorite areas to explore!
Biking
Recently, Lost Dutchman State Park has opened a four-mile mountain bike loop trail for mountain bikers of all skill levels to enjoy. This trail is an absolutely fantastic way to see a lot of the park’s beauty in just a small amount of time. The single track loop trail winds through the Sonoran Desert across rocky terrain and sandy washes, all while the astonishing Superstition Mountains tower overhead.
Wildlife Viewing
A wide array of different Arizona wildlife resides within Lost Dutchman State Park. No matter the time of year, visitors are bound to have copious amounts of wildlife viewing opportunities. Wildlife enthusiasts often report spotting coyotes, javelina, bobcats, desert mule deer, jackrabbits, lizards, snakes, and a high number of bird species as well. Ask a park ranger about the best spots in the park for wildlife viewing!
2. What are the Top Spots to See in Lost Dutchman State Park?
If you want to get the most out of your visit to Lost Dutchman State Park, be sure you check out their Visitor Center before leaving! And if you want to continue to learn more about the Superstition Mountains and the Legend of the Lost Dutchman, we also recommend checking out the Superstition Mountain Museum just up the road.
Lost Dutchman State Park Visitor Center
The Lost Dutchman State Park Visitor Center includes a souvenir shop, camping store, and many fascinating exhibits about the surrounding area. Be sure to swing by and chat with the Park Rangers about upcoming park events, trail recommendations, or anything else you may need help with.
Superstition Mountain Museum
Although the Superstition Mountain Museum is not located inside of Lost Dutchman State Park, it is located nearby and makes a great stop before or after hitting the state park’s trails. This non-profit museum works to educate visitors and locals on the history and mysterious legends of Arizona’s Superstition Mountains — including the Lost Dutchman — by featuring a number of incredible educational exhibits. The Superstition Mountain Museum is open daily from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.
3. Hiking and Trails Information
The hiking trails at Lost Dutchman State Park are a great jumping-off point for all kinds of adventures into the Superstition Mountains! One of the hikes makes the top 10 list of best hikes in Arizona. This park offers a long list of hiking trails that range from easy to difficult. Here are four of our favorites:
- Native Plant Trail – This is an easy paved trail that runs roughly a quarter-mile and showcases a number of impressive desert plants. This is a great choice for small children and/or the elderly.
- Jacob’s Crosscut Trail – This moderate trail is approximately 0.8 miles and runs along the base of the mountains. If you want to continue your adventure, this trail connects with two other trails that continue about 5 miles further along the Superstition Mountains and offer incredible views!
- Siphon Draw Trail – This is a moderate 4-mile scenic hike that will guide you up into the Siphon Draw canyon. Bring your camera! (And personal photo permit!)
- Flatiron Trail (our favorite) – This is a hard 5.8-mile round trip. You access this trail via the Siphon Draw trail. Flatiron trail is not maintained the whole way. It’s steep and difficult but it is so worth the effort when you reach the top of Superstition Mountains! The sweeping views of the valley below leaves you speechless for more than 1 reason.
Don’t forget about the intense Arizona sun before setting off for a hike at Lost Dutchman State Park. Many afternoons inside of this park reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit! Always remember to be prepared with more than enough water, proper footwear, and several methods of sun protection.
4. Park and Camping Information
Park and Facility Hours
Lost Dutchman State Park is open 24/7, 365 days a year. The park’s trails are open from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm. The Visitor Center and Park Store are open Monday through Friday from 7:00 am to 3:30 pm, and from 6:00 am to 3:30 pm on weekends.
Park Entrance Fees
- Weekdays
- Per Vehicle (up to four adults): $7.00
- Per Individual/Bicycle: $3.00
- Weekends
- Per Vehicle (up to four adults): $10.00
- Per Individual/Bicycle: $3.00
Required Photo Permits
Please note that visitors are required to obtain a Photo Permit before taking photos at Lost Dutchman State Park. If you wish to take commercial photos, please download and fill out the state park’s Commercial Filming and Photography Application. If you wish to take personal photos, you can fill out a form at the Lost Dutchman Visitor Center day-of.
Picnic Areas/Shelters
For those who are hoping to enjoy a picnic lunch at the park, Lost Dutchman State Park has 13 single shaded ramadas with picnic tables and barbecue grills. There are plenty of restrooms and drinking fountains located near the picnic grounds.
Camping Information
Lost Dutchman State Park’s campground has 138 sites available for overnight camping. There are 68 sites with electricity and water. The remaining sites do not have electricity access. However, every Lost Dutchman site does have a picnic table and a fire pit with an adjustable open-fire grill.
If you would like to make a Lost Dutchman campsite reservation, and we highly commend that you do, to savor all the beauty that the face of the Superstitions offers, you can do so online at the Lost Dutchman State Park website or by calling the Arizona State Parks Reservation Desk 1-877-MY PARKS during normal office hours.
5. Where to Stay Near Lost Dutchman State Park
When it comes to lodging opportunities near Lost Dutchman State Park, there’s no shortage of options! Visitors can rent a cabin inside of the park or easily travel into the nearest town of Apache Junction, Mesa, Gilbert, Tempe, or even Phoenix.
Lost Dutchman Cabins
This state park offers one of the best cabin experiences you can find. At Lost Dutchman State Park, visitors can spend the day soaking up the great outdoors and retreat into the comfort of an air-conditioned or heated cabin every night. The park has five multi-room cabins with absolute mesmerizing views of the Superstition Mountains, a queen-sized bed, two sets of bunk beds, countertops, chairs, ceiling fans, and electricity. Outside, cabin renters can enjoy their own picnic table and a fire pit.
If you would like to make a Lost Dutchman cabin reservation, simply visit the Lost Dutchman State Park website or call the Arizona State Parks Reservation Desk 1-877-MY PARKS during normal office hours.
Apache Junction
The closest town to Lost Dutchman State Park is Apache Junction, Arizona. Here, you will be able to find a number of quality restaurants and hotel accommodation options. For more information on Apache Junction, feel free to visit their official website.
No matter how long you stay, the mysterious legends and awe-striking scenery at Lost Dutchman State Park are sure to stick with you. The Lost Dutchman State Park’s scenic views of the legendary Superstition Mountains and high-quality recreational facilities are nothing short of superb. When you get the chance, be sure to get over to Lost Dutchman State Park. Don’t miss out!
