Weaver’s Needle (elevation = 4553 feet; 1388 meters) is the main landmark in Arizona’s Superstition Mountains. According to one of the more well-known legends about the range, the Lost Dutchman’s Gold lies within its shadow. And as you can see, it casts a long shadow over some very rough terrain.

Contrary to popular belief, this spire is not a volcanic plug or neck. It has formed simply by the erosion, from the sides inward, of a very thick and resistant layer of “tuff”, or fused volcanic ash. Such rock is not very likely to contain gold, or any other metallic minerals.

This view looks to the north, from Fremont Saddle, on the Peralta Trail, one of the more popular hiking trails in the Superstitions. It is accessible from the south side of the mountains, near Gold Canyon. Here is a good resource for trail information.

This video was shot by Vimeo Users: Brad Kelone