The Hackberry Springs Trail stands out as a backcountry gem. Nestled in the hills behind the iconic mountain face of the Superstitions, this moderate trail promises breathtaking views of the desert’s saguaro-covered landscapes, high-walled canyons, and a journey through lush washes and canyons, all characteristic of the Sonoran Desert.
Trail Location and Access
Just off Highway 88, past Lost Dutchman’s State Park’s entrance, the unmarked Forest Road 78 (also known as First Water Road) serves as the gateway.
Easily visible from the highway, this graded but bumpy and rutted road demands caution, more appropriate for SUVs and trucks with a bit of clearance.
Along Dirt Road 78 are quite a few new trailheads, including Massacre Falls, which is another great recommendation. But for now, pass along and travel down the dirt road about 2 miles in.
On the left is a large horse staging area and dirt parking. A vault toilet is available giving you a convenient pitstop before you set out on the trail. There is no fee or permit required for parking or using this area. 
Trail Details
Hackberry Springs is part of a loop that includes Garden Valley and access to other trails.
The trail is 3.7 miles long, but you can easily add in a mile or two depending on what side trails appeal to you. With an average elevation gain of 500 feet, completion takes around 2 hours with no stops, unless, like me, you stop and look at everything adding on an extra 4 hours.
I only recommend this hike to those who have a bit of navigational experience. The trail can be occasionally overgrown and obscure, even I found myself drifting off the path.
This is no problem if you have an app such as Gaia and your phone linked to a GPS signal such as the Inreach to show you the way. This is an experienced hiker’s hike.
Trail Conditions and Safety
Featuring rock gardens and boulder fields for portions of this trial, strong legs and balance are prerequisites.
While weekdays offer solitude, weekends see moderate visitation.
Although beautiful, caution is paramount, this is a true rugged desert. The Superstition Wilderness is unforgiving to those who wander too far off the trail or experience trouble; it’s recommended only for seasoned hikers with proper gear, including a personal location beacon.
Trail Orientation and Starting Point
This loop can be started clockwise or counterclockwise.
I’ve always done this trail counterclockwise for no other reason than that is what instinctually feels normal. But I read that it was recommended to start clockwise, so I gave it a try. In the end, I don’t have a preference, both offer spectacular views.
If you start clockwise, you’ll start your trek by heading out on foot to the main road, FR78, and heading left. Continue down the road for about 5 minutes where you will find the trail on the right that takes you through a gate and then cuts into the wilderness.
Starting counterclockwise, begin by heading north through a break in the fence from the parking area.
You’ll finish the trail either by arriving at the horse staging area or by meeting up FR78 and walking back to the parking area, depending on how you stated.
Natural Features and Spring Mystery
The trail’s namesake, Hackberry Spring, remains a mystery.
On the Gaia map, there is a marking for the spring, so I set out to find it. I saw small trails up the side of the hill, signaling that I was not the first to have the idea.
Bushwacking up the side of a steep hill with unstable terrain, I was able to walk around the spring according to the map but did not see any discerning evidence of a spring that was there at any point in history.
Research may provide clarity, but the spring likely originates from a nearby rock cropping about 50 feet away.
Wildlife and Camping
Many spots along the way make for great camping spots. You’ll find rock-ringed fire pits and flat tent sites nestled into shady coves.
Oftentimes, you’ll find a flat butt-sized rock left by your predecessors that makes a great rest spot.
Birding enthusiasts will delight in spotting vivid red cardinals, rust-breasted robins, black-throated sparrows, Gila Woodpeckers, Cactus Wrens, and the occasional hawk.
Reptile enthusiasts should tread carefully, encountering everything from common tree lizards to the venomous Gila monster and western rattlesnakes.
Trail Conclusion
With its unique blend of rugged beauty and diverse wildlife, Hackberry Springs Trail is among my top 10 favorite hikes in the Superstitions.
This area is true backcountry wilderness. This is definitely a hike where you want to start early enough so you can take your time.
There is so much rugged desert beauty to explore. Take this one slow and enjoy.
