Hieroglyphic Canyon

Elevation: 815 m (2680 feet)
Elevation Gain: 175 m (570 feet)
Hieroglyphic Canyon is an officially named landmark on the south face of Superstition Mountain above the community of Gold Canyon, AZ. Despite its official status, the name is a misnomer as the canyon bears petroglyphs not hieroglyphs (which are defined as part of a writing system). The canyon’s petroglyphs are thought to have been drawn and carved by the Hohokam people between 700 – 1100 AD. Debate as to their significance continues. Regardless of their meaning, the Canyon is now officially listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Sadly, vandalism has become a modern addition to the ancient rock carvings in Hieroglyphic Canyon. Anyone who witnesses an act of vandalism involving the petroglyphs is urged to report the crime to local authorities.
My Ascents:
February 23 2019
Canyonhead: Hieroglyphic Canyon Trailhead

Following a historically cold month in Calgary (and that’s saying something!), the family and I were eagerly looking forward to our annual winter escape to the sunny Phoenix area. Unfortunately, the bitter Canadian winter followed us south and we arrived in Arizona in time to witness the state’s snowiest day since 1915. While the Phoenix Valley didn’t see the 36+” of snow that were reported in other areas around the state, we were treated to heavy rain, flurries and near-freezing temperatures. So much for tanning around the pool…

After a few cold and dreary days, we were relieved to finally wake to sunny skies on February 23. It was still cold but not “Canada cold” and, after being cooped up inside with 2 little ones for a few days, we were excited to get the whole family out for some fresh air. And by “fresh air”, I of course mean hiking!

Based on the suggestion of a friend who also hikes with his small children (thanks Cory!), we decided to plot a course for nearby Hieroglyphic Canyon which looked to be a very family-suitable, scenic 5 km return hike.

What the hell is that white stuff on Superstition Mountain?! The previous days’ precipitation certainly made for fine (and rare) desert scenery. Indeed, we were amused at the number of locals spotted taking photos of the unusually white peak that towers above the eastern edge of the Phoenix area. Scenic though it was, I’d have probably traded in these views for similar snow-free ones and warmer weather!

After struggling to find parking at the busy trailhead, we gathered our kids, our Nannie, our Papa and our gear and started up the popular Hieroglyphics Trail. The trail follows a broad and gentle ridge upwards, providing nice views of the surrounding desertscape. More accustomed to Canadian flora, Mera was especially enamored with the local cacti (and none more so than the massive saguaros which towered all about).

Mera shows us how to be a cactus.

Everyone’s “cactussing” now! The little “cactus” in the lower right of the photo was likely the fastest cactus anyone’s ever seen.

As we hiked, Mera’s fascination with the cacti knew no end. From posing like a cactus to posing questions about the cacti. My favorite such query: “What’s the difference between a boy cactus and girl cactus?” I’m not a botanist so I didn’t have a good answer for her … until I saw this particular saguaro!

After enjoying the broad ridge and its scenery, the trail eventually made its way towards a draw at the foot of the mountain. A little higher up, the draw narrowed and petroglyphs appeared above seasonal pools.

Saguaros and snow make for unlikely partners on Supersition Mountain’s steep south face.

Most of the trail to Hieroglyphic Canyon follows an old road and is, therefore, wide enough to accommodate the many hikers that frequent this trail. Near the seasonal pools, however, the draw narrowed. As hands inevitably came out of pockets to assist over this brief scrambly bit, foot traffic began to back up. Fortunately, the end was in sight!

The seasonal pools, waterfalls and crowds of Hieroglyphic Canyon.

Papa and Nannie hold their little hikers with pride above one of the larger pools (and our stopping point for the day). And what's that on the rocks behind them?...

A closer look at the petroglyphs (or "glyphics" as Mera called them).

My little "Goat" and a goat "glyphic"!

"Canyon" might be a bit of a misnomer but the smooth red rocks and seasonal waterfalls in the draw were the scenic highlight of the day. Note the petroglyphs on the darker rocks above the cascade. Click to see larger.

Petroglyphs litter the scenic "Canyon" walls while water seeps out of every nook and cranny as the snow melts above. Click to see larger.

Looking back downstream towards Gold Canyon.

After a satisfying repast (yum - PB&J wraps) and a chilly family photo (note the sweaters all around), it was time to make our way back down.

Mera enjoys an assist from Papa over some of the muddier terrain. Hard to tell who's having more fun...

Sweeping valley views as we continue down the lovely trail.

A telephoto west towards Tempe (center left) and Phoenix (center right).

Mera holds Papa's hand to keep him from darting off into cacti as we near the trail's end. With the hike complete and sufficient fresh air enjoyed by all, there was only one matter left to attend to...

...a post-hike treat at Coldstone Creamery! Penny certainly enjoyed her monstrously large ice cream (despite the fact that it was still brisk enough to require a coat while eating it)!

The Arizona heat that we'd hoped for might not have come to pass but, luckily, we're a hearty lot when it comes to hiking and eating ice cream in winter conditions!