First Water Trailhead · Dutchman’s Trail Corridor
USFS day-use gateway into the Superstition Dutchman trail network — high-clearance approach, wilderness rules, no overnight at the lot.
Access
Public USFS day-use trailhead (Dutchman’s Trail #104 / Second Water #236 access). USFS publishes Lat 33.479399, Lon −111.442564. Approach via SR-88 → FS Rd 78; high-clearance / 4WD often needed — road not maintained for passenger cars. No overnight camping at the trailhead per USFS listing; no fee listed on the recreation page (verify). Wilderness group limits apply.
Safety & respect
Vehicle clearance is critical. Desert heat and navigation load are real; file a plan. Stay on public land — private parcels exist nearby.
Lore note
Gateway into the classic Lost Dutchman trail corridor. Pair with published folklore (Arizona Highways / Superstition Wilderness history) — not treasure blogs selling X-marks-the-spot maps.
Map
Official / public map link · Approx. 33.4794, -111.4426 (public reference only — verify on official maps before travel)
Sources
- USFS — First Water Trailhead (r03/tonto recreation page)
- Arizona Highways — Peralta Trail / Superstition context
First Water is the quieter Superstitions front door for hikers who want Dutchman corridor miles without the state-park picnic mood. It is still a published trailhead with vault toilets and wilderness rules — not a blank check to roam private ground.
Archivist’s margin
The mystery here is landscape plus rumor density, not a specimen on the trail. Treat the Dutchman story as folklore you carry in a pack, not a dig permit.