This hike starts at First Water Traihead and ends on State Route 88, at the Canyon Lake Marina. A 12 mile vehicle shuttle is required for this one way trek. The hike is rated moderate, and is 7.6 miles in length. It takes about 5.5 hours to complete. This hike should be done during the cooler months. Finding shade on the Boulder Canyon Trail is near impossible. There is a four dollar fee to park at First Water, and there is no charge to park at the Marina.
From Apache Junction, take State Route 88 about five miles and between mileposts 201 and 202, turn east on FS78 and go 2.6 miles to the end of the road. There are no facilities at this trailhead.
From Apache Junction, take State Route 88 about fifteen miles. The Marina is located between mileposts 211 and 212. Park against the fence in the Marina parking lot. There are restrooms and a snackbar at the Marina.
This hike begins at First Water Trailhead and follows the Second Water Trail(236) to Garden Valley. It continues past the Black Mesa Trail sign, and an earthen cow tank. This is where the trail turns rocky and starts to descend before reaching Second Water. There is a faint trail that heads north to another cow tank. Don't take it! Continue on Second Water Trail as it turns south, then east again. Second Water Spring is on your right and there is usually water here. This is a good place to stop and have a snack. There is also evidence of old mining camps in this area. Continue to the junction of Boulder Canyon Trail(103). Head north on the Boulder Canyon Trail which will cross Boulder Creek, and then goes over a pass in an area that has red rock. The trail then descends and crosses LaBarge Creek. Look for cairns on the east bank. The trail begins to climb out of the canyon here, and on to the ridge to the north. There are great views in all directions as the hike climbs out of the canyon, and even better views once on the ridge. Soon the lake will come into view, and after an hour or so, the hike will be over.
Trail map for First Water to Canyon Lake. Click on map for larger image. Use the back button on your browser to return to this page.
For the best trail descriptions, maps, and history and legends of the area, get a copy of "The Hiker's Guide To The Superstition Wilderness" by Jack Carlson and Elizabeth Stewart.
