Montana Mountain
Trail Raiting: 2.0
Montana Mountain is a very scenic trail that climbs to elevations reaching over 5000 feet. It takes you from beautiful Sonoran desert landscape to Pinon, Juniper and Pines within minutes. While you climb the mountain towards the higher elevations you'll be treated to some breathtaking views of the eastern part of the Superstitions and the east valley. The whole trail is approximately 30 miles and takes about 4 hours to complete.
The trail is located east of the Superstition Wilderness and provides several hiking trails and camping spots. The first part of the trail (FS 172) is a well maintained dirt road. FS 172A and FS 650 are a little rougher but nothing a two wheel drive pickup or SUV can't make. There are some medium sized rocks near the end of the trail on FS 650 where it takes you across a stream bed. Use caution in this area especially during the monsoons.
This trail can be accessed from Queen Valley Road which is just east of Florence Junction on U.S. 60. After turning left on Queen Valley Road proceed north approximately 1.7 miles to Hewitt Station Rd. (FS 357). Follow Hewitt Station Rd. for approximately 3 miles and turn left on to FS 172. Follow FS 172 for approximately 9.5 miles and turn right on FS 172A. Follow FS 172A for another 4 miles and make a sharp right turn uphill onto FS 650. FS 650 will take you along the southern part of the mountain with beautiful views of Superior, and Picket Post Mtn. in the background.
As you descend down the east side of the mountain on FS 650 you can see a stone cabin that's worth exploring. The cabin is very well preserved. There's a mine shaft dug into the rock cliff behind the cabin that is also worth exploring. As always use caution and beware of the bees while exploring these areas.
After the cabin follow FS 650, which will take you back to US 60 just west of the Arboretum, located approximately 5 miles west of Superior, AZ.
Note: FS 342 just past the cabin is another scenic trail that will take you back up to the pines with views of the east valley on one side and the copper mine in Globe/Miami on the other. Allow another 2 hours for this side trip.
Views of the Sonoran Desert along FS 172
Can you see the natural bridge in this photo? There's another one in this same area. Go out and explore! See if you can find it.
View of the desert below as you climb to higher elevations on FS 172A
Climbing up the switchbacks on FS 172A
View of the Eastern side of the Superstitions on FS 650
Lunch time at one of the several camping spots on Montana Mountain.
View of Superior in the background as your traveling along the shelf road on FS 650
Well preserved miner's cabin worth exploring.
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