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Hike the Boulder Canyon Trail

Apache Junction, Arizona

4.0/5
based on 1 reviews

Details

Distance

10 miles

Elevation Gain

1500 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Matt Yanchek

A long hike with panoramic views of Canyon Lake, La Barge Canyon, and Boulder Canyon

Parking for the trailhead is actually in the same lot as the marina.  There is a restaurant, campground, and restrooms all in the vicinity of the parking lot.  The actual trailhead is on the other side of the street opposite the parking lot entrance road.  The hike begins an uphill climb.  In a couple hundred feet the trail will fork, make sure you stay on the left for. As you ascend views of canyon lake become wider and wider.  There is a giant stone pile at the top where hikers deposit a stone to mark the climb.  From here you can enjoy the views of Canyon Lake, Tortilla Flat, La Barge Canyon.  Continue along the flatter trail for a couple of miles as it wraps back around to the Boulder Creek Canyon.  Eventually you will come to a flat outlook (around the 4 mile mark), with exceptional views into Boulder Canyon. You should be able to see Battle Ship mountain (round/column looking mountain) and Weavers Needle out in the distance. After this overlook you will begin the decent down into Boulder Canyon.  After a quick decent you should reach a dried up creek bed which you should cross.  To get to the creek you will have to go off the trail to the right until you run into it.  There are some deep areas around the creek perfect for a quick dip to cool off.  From here you can see the round side of Battleship mountain clearly.  If you are doing a day hike it is best to turn around.

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Features

Hiking
Bathrooms
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Food Nearby
River
Scenic
Wildlife
Swimming Hole

Hike the Boulder Canyon Trail Reviews

If you park by the marina up against the back fence on the south side of parking lot, the paring is free.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Kayak Canyon Lake Reservoir

Hike Black Mesa Loop

Hike the Dutchman's Second Canyon Loop

Hike Battleship Mountain

White Rock Springs Camp Loop via First Water Trailhead

Second Water To Boulder Canyon Camp