Highlight • Cave
Wave Cave
Hiking
5.0
(7)
Running
5.0
(1)
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Superstition Wilderness
Tips
February 27, 2023
Hiking
July 10, 2023
Hiking
November 24, 2023
Running
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Wave Cave
1
hikers
3.31km
01:08
240m
10m
Embark on the Wave Cave Trail, an easy 2.1-mile (3.3 km) hike that takes you through the rugged beauty of the Sonoran Desert. You will gain 777 feet (237 metres) in elevation over an estimated 1 hour and 7 minutes, leading you to a distinctive rock formation resembling a massive ocean wave. As you ascend, enjoy expansive views of the desert floor and the surrounding mountains, with saguaro cacti dotting the landscape.
Before you head out, be aware that the trail is located on Arizona State Trust Land, which may require a permit for parking and hiking in certain areas. The route offers little shade, so prepare for direct sun exposure by bringing plenty of water and wearing appropriate footwear with good grip. This is a popular spot, especially on weekends, so plan your visit to the trailhead accordingly to secure parking.
The Wave Cave Trail stands out for its unique natural formation, providing a sweeping panoramic vista of the valley below. It's a favored location for photography, offering a memorable desert experience. The trail allows you to immerse yourself in the distinctive ecosystem of the Superstition Wilderness, showcasing its unique rock formations and desert flora.
4.4
(5)
87
hikers
4.87km
01:36
220m
220m
Embark on an easy hike along the Wave Cave Trail, a 3.0 miles (4.9 km) route that winds through the rugged Sonoran Desert. You will gain 713 feet (217 metres) in elevation, a journey that typically takes about 1 hour and 36 minutes. As you ascend, you will pass towering saguaro cacti and navigate rocky terrain, all while enjoying expansive views of the Superstition Mountains. The path leads to the distinctive Wave Cave, a natural formation known for its unique wave-shaped rock that provides a striking visual landmark. This trail offers a rewarding experience for hikers seeking desert scenery and a memorable destination.
When planning your visit, consider hiking the Wave Cave Trail during the cooler months, from fall through spring, to avoid the intense Arizona heat. Starting your hike early in the morning is also highly recommended for a more comfortable experience. Remember to carry significantly more water than you anticipate; 2.5 to 3 liters per person is a good guideline. Permits are required for parking at Carney Springs Trailhead and for the initial section of the trail on State Trust Land, so be sure to arrange these beforehand.
The Wave Cave Trail stands out in Tonto National Forest for its unique geological feature, the Wave Cave itself. This natural formation, with its wave-shaped rock extending over the desert, offers an iconic backdrop for photos and a shaded spot to rest. The trail provides a fantastic opportunity to experience the Sonoran Desert's ecosystem, showcasing its resilient flora and vast landscapes. It is a popular choice for those looking for a relatively short and accessible desert adventure with a distinctive reward at the end.
4
hikers
12.9km
04:34
710m
710m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 910 m
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Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h
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