Hike Siphon Draw to Flatiron

Arguably the most iconic hike in Arizona's Superstition Mountains, the hike to Flatiron via Siphon Draw offers hikers with unrelenting views from start to finish. Highlighted by Siphon Draw, a striking natural rock amphitheater, and culminating with stunning panoramas of the Superstition Wilderness from the summit of Flatiron, the hike is as rewarding as it is challenging. If there is one hike in the Superstitions to do, this is it.

Trailhead elevation 2,083'

Water none

Don't miss the precarious route up the boulder problem

Hike Siphon Draw to Flatiron

Lost Dutchman State Park requires a day-use fee for hiking the trail, so check the park's website for the most up-to-date pricing. Overnight guests at the Lost Dutchman State Park Campground are exempt from this fee. The best time of year to hike the trail is spring through fall, early in the morning, and during the week, if possible.

Starting at the trailhead, the path winds through relatively flat terrain, with an elevation gain of about 150 feet in the first mile.

As the trail advances, the elevation gain becomes more noticeable. From mile 1 to 1.85, the trail climbs over 600 feet, rewarding hikers with progressively more spectacular views.

Soon after, the trail arrives at Siphon Draw, a massive, naturally carved granite amphitheater formed by water erosion over thousands of years. Flanked by towering granite walls and spires, Siphon Draw guides hikers up its steep, slippery slope, with the imposing Flatiron standing tall in the distance.

At the top of Siphon Draw, the route continues along the unmarked Flatiron Trail. Over the next 0.7 miles, the trail ascends more than 2,100 feet at an almost 60% grade. For perspective, the steepest single mile of any Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim hike gains less than 1,000 feet. Hikers must scramble over large boulders and up massive granite slabs. The route can be challenging to follow in some spots, but the park has marked the trickiest sections with white dots on the rocks to help hikers stay on course.

As the trail climbs higher, desert flora becomes increasingly abundant, and the views of the 4,860-foot peak grow more striking.

Approximately 500 feet below the summit, hikers will encounter what seems to be a fork in the trail. While the path to the right might appear to be the correct choice, the proper route is to the left. Taking the right fork leads to a far more challenging and slippery approach to the top.

Just before reaching the summit, hikers encounter what’s often called the "boulder problem," a 10-foot granite wall that must be passed to access Flatiron. There are several ways to tackle this section. The easiest route (marked in yellow) involves walking up the slab on the right, requiring only minor scrambling. The more adventurous route (marked in red) involves a somewhat precarious climb through a crack in the wall. The red route is by far the most exposed section of the entire hike, and if chosen, will be a highlight of the hike. Alternatively, those not inclined to tackle the boulder problem, about 50 feet before this point, hikers can find a tree on the left side of the trail. Climbing up beside the tree leads to a well-worn path that bypasses the wall entirely—but where’s the fun in that?

Once beyond the boulder problem, a comparatively flat path leads hikers to the summit of Flatiron.

From the summit, hikers have 360-degree views of the vast wilderness, Peak 5024, Siphon Draw, Apache Junction and well beyond. The views are simply epic. It's not uncommon to find BASE jumpers at the top as well.

After soaking in the breathtaking views, hikers can retrace their steps back to the trailhead. Keep in mind that the descent is extremely slippery, and although it takes less time than the climb, it demands careful attention. Many sections, particularly the boulder problem, pose a serious risk where a fall could lead to severe injury or worse. Once you safely make it back to the trailhead, give yourself a well-deserved pat on the back—you’ve conquered one of Arizona’s most physically demanding day hikes!