Things to See in Superior
Picket Post Mountain
One of the more prominent landmarks in the Superior area, Picket Post Mountain stands just to the west of town at an elevation of 4370 feet. The mountain owes its name to the military outpost established here to protect the mines and the citizens from raids in the 1870's. It was also called Tordillo (Gray) Mountain. Picket Post is part of the Tonto National Forest and there is a trailhead to the top, with the turnoff at U.S. 60.
Queen Creek Tunnel and Canyon
The Queen Creek Tunnel was built in 1952 just east of town using the assistance of local miners at the time. It replaced the vintage 1926 Claypool tunnel. Paths downward from various turnoffs on U.S. 60 lead to the old tunnel.
Boyce Thompson Arboretum
Boyce Thompson Arboretum was established on 400 acres in the early 1920's to study desert plants. It later was turned into a park with the goal of giving people an appreciation for arid desert plants through education, research, recreational and conservation efforts. The arboretum is managed by the Arizona State Parks, the University of Arizona and others. Many special events occur throughout the year such as Butterfly Walks, Plants of the Bible, and an annual Fall Festival. Summer hours (May through August): daily 6 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Winter hours (September through April): daily 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Located 3 miles west of Superior on U.S. 60. Contact (520) 689-2811 for more information.
Devil's Canyon
Located just east of Superior on U.S. 60, the canyon offers a close-up look at "hoodoos," unusually piled rock formations. Locals call some of them "the rock people." Although the road is narrow in places there are several turnoff opportunities. There is a seasonal waterfall in the winter during snow runoff and also during the summer monsoon.
Resolution Copper Mining Co.
Resolution offers tours of the old and new copper mining sites in and around Superior. They have an information office located at 402 W. Main Street. The tours are closed during the hottest part of the summer months. They are usually full so be sure to call ahead to reserve. Contact (520) 689-3392
Historic Downtown Superior
Be sure to travel to Main Street, park in any of the open places, and take a walk to check out some of the wonderful architecture. The Old Magma Hotel is on the corner of Magma and Main. The Belmont Building (currently housing the Town Hall) and the Porter Building (housing a community mental health center) are two other examples. Many of the buildings still show their original signing, and others have been decorated with murals by local artists.
The World's Smallest Museum
Located next to the Buckboard Cafe on U.S. 60 at the west end of town. Call (520) 689-5800.
