Arts, Hiking, and Ghost Stories in Arizona’s Most Scenic Small Town
With more unique experiences than travelers can fit into a few days, a weekend getaway in Superior is the perfect way to relax and unwind. Superior is the kind of place that will having you coming back to cross another activity off your bucket list.
Most destinations require you to choose between having a relaxing or adventure-filled vacation – but we’ve luckily found a place that perfectly balances the two. Superior, Arizona, is located close enough to be accessible by major Arizona cities like Phoenix, but far enough away that it’s the ideal weekend getaway that is equal parts restorative and action-filled.
On the Road to Superior by Ray Cleveland
Getting To Superior, Arizona
Superior is a peaceful town that is surrounded by both towering desert peaks and ancient Saguaro cacti. The area is under an hour from Phoenix, as well as easy to travel to from Scottsdale (1 hour), Tucson (1 hour, 45 minutes), or Tempe (50 minutes). Superior is perfect for a relaxing and rejuvenating weekend with plenty of quiet spots ideal for personal retreats centered around nature (like the Boyce Thompson Arboretum), but also plenty of fun restaurants and world-class hikes for those looking for more adventure.
Downtown Superior by Dog Cat Mouse Media
Colorful Arizona Art
Stroll down main street and you’ll notice something right away: the bright colors that make up Superior. Everything from the sandstone cliffs that surrounded the town, the vibrant sunsets, and even the store fronts are full of color. Superior is home to multiple art galleries and full-time artists that take inspiration from the hues found of the neighboring desert. If you’re wanting to put your own inspiration onto canvas, check out Art 145 for classes where you can learn different creative techniques.
Superior’s Ghost Stories
Add a bit of supernatural excitement to your trip, and look no further than downtown Superior. With the area’s rich mining history, it’s not a surprise that there are more than a few ghost stories found throughout the town. Many of the area’s residents told us about the friendly ghosts that roam throughout Superior at places like the Historic Magma Hotel, and Bruzzi Vineyards. There have even been a few professional ghost hunters who have visited the town in recent years.
Elevated Hiking and Outdoor Adventure
The opportunities for outdoor adventure around Superior are truly top-notch. Hundred-year-old Saguaro cacti meet towering desert rocks in this outdoor lover’s playground. The best part? You can enjoy these views without the crowds found at similar places like Saguaro National Park.
Into rock climbing?
Queen Creek Canyon is located less than 10 minutes outside of town and is home to an insane amount of climbing routes featuring everything from bouldering, sport, and trad climbing. The local climbing areas have a great mix of route options for both newer climbers or seasoned vets, and the warm weather allows climbing to be accessible for large parts of the year. This makes Superior truly a mecca for those seeking world-class climbing.
Montana Mountain Loop UTV Trail photos by Superior UTV Rentals
Off roading more your speed?
Superior is home to hundreds upon hundreds of Off Highway Vehicle (OHV) trails, which rival some of the best known spots in the country. The best part is that these trails receive a fraction of the crowds found at similar locations, and Superior is incredibly easy to get to (being only 50 minutes from Phoenix). You don’t even have to bring your own UTV if you don’t want—you can rent one from Superior UTV Rental for all your off-roading fun.
Looking for one of the most scenic hikes of your life?
The trails in Superior will have your jaw dropping around every turn. One of the area’s most popular routes—the 11.6 mile Legends of Superior Trail (LOST)—goes right through the heart of town and can be easily accessed just a one-block walk from the Historic Magma Hotel. Superior is the place we keep coming back to for shoulder season hiking. The trails are stunning, the weather is warm and inviting, and it’s incredibly easy to quickly jump on a flight to Phoenix and spend a weekend enjoying the scenery around Superior.
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