Travelers who seek history, uncrowded outdoor recreation, and great food should immediately punch the following into their GPS: Superior, Arizona. This historic mining town dates back to the late 1870s when it was a supply hub for a nearby silver mine. Decades later, it entered its heyday after the discovery of vast copper deposits. Today, Superior has evolved into a destination for hiking, soaring, and of course, those who appreciate its storied past. Here are our recommendations for what not to miss during your trip to Superior, Arizona.
This story was created in partnership with the Town of Superior, Arizona.
Hike (and Bike and Horseback Ride) Miles of Untrammeled Trails
Superior is home to miles of multi-use recreation trails, from the 11.65-mile (18.7-kilometer) Legends of Superior Trail (LOST) to the internationally recognized 800-mile (1,287.5-kilometer) long Arizona Trail, accessible from LOST. Both systems allow hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders, making a trifecta of fun just minutes away from town. From jagged Picketpost Mountain to seasonally lush Queen Creek Canyon, these cactus-shrouded trails have started to draw more attention in recent years. (In 2025, the Copper Corridor Trail Run by Aravaipa Running was held here with over 100 participants!) But in comparison to other trail systems in the Sonoran Desert outside of Phoenix, LOST and the Arizona Trail all but guarantee uncrowded trailheads and hours of solitude. The result? Increased odds of seeing Arizona’s signature wildlife, and no competition to get the shot at scenic viewpoints!
Explore the Outdoors in a Uniquely Superior Way
Rent a Side-by-Side
For those who prefer to experience the outdoors with a touch of horsepower, Superior, Arizona, offers. Superior Adventure Rentals offers a plethora of ways to rip around the desert via quad or dirt bike, making good use of the fact that Superior is one of the most UTV-friendly areas in the entire United States. With up to 14 unique routes to pursue–from the dramatic Box Canyon to the iconic Montana Mountain Loop–you could spend an entire week on a quad without covering your tracks twice.
Soar Above Superior
After you’re done on the desert floor, take to the skies in a glider with Superior Soaring. Views down to Apache Leap and the surrounding Pinal Mountains will have you feeling like a red-tailed hawk. Superior is one of the only places in America where you can fly in an engine-less airplane, and it is also undoubtedly one of the most scenic!
Meander Arizona’s Largest and Oldest Arboretum
No trip to Superior is complete without a stop at Boyce Thompson Arboretum. Founded in 1924 and home to 135 acres of gardens and nearly five miles (eight kilometers) of trails, it is Arizona’s largest arboretum. The exhibits feature plants from 11 global regions, from a towering Australian eucalyptus forest to the fictional-looking Boojum trees from Baja. Depending on when you visit, a bouquet of flowers may be in bloom, or the Silver King Wash may be running with fresh rainfall. Boyce Thompson Arboretum is a year-round destination for all who love hiking, photography, and the great outdoors.
Discover Art and History with Small Town Charm
After all the time on the trail, point your weary hiking boots to Main Street. Here beneath the face of Apache Leap, visitors will encounter a cacophony of murals, mixed-media artist galleries, and shopping opportunities. Be sure to take a moment to appreciate the thriving ocotillo cactus (named Olivia) growing right on the edge of the sidewalk! Whether you are eager to take home a souvenir from the border of Arizona’s historic Copper Corridor or are looking for a photo op with a beautiful mural, it’s all on Main.
Dig Into a Thriving Food and Drink Scene
Sure, it’s easy to anticipate great hiking in the outskirts of Phoenix. But great food and drink? Just another surprise awaiting in Superior, Arizona. The menus here are as diverse as the cactus. You’ll encounter home-cooked meals galore, from freshly cooked breakfast sandwiches at Mountainside Coffee to monstrous reubens and burgers at Bella’s Cafe. At Gypsy Sisters, seasonal empanadas pair perfectly with hot coffee. As the sun sets, brisket beckons from Silver King Smokehouse. And of course, Mexican fare reigns supreme here and there are a number of excellent options to satisfy all cravings. Wash it all down with a glass of wine at Bruzzi Vineyard’s tasting room beneath the pink-hued backdrop of the Apache Leap.
Stay in Historic Lodging and Vibey Vacation Rentals
While it’s possible to make an epic day trip to Superior, Arizona, we recommend staying one night (or more). The historic Hotel Magma dates back to 1912 as a carefully restored boutique hotel, complete with a rooftop patio and stunning views. Just beyond, colorful bed and breakfasts and rental properties–and even a ranch for tent and RV camping–abound. Don’t miss the newest Airbnb in town: the mid-century cool Hill House with 360˚ views of the surrounding Sonoran Desert and mountains. There is truly an accommodation to suit all styles and lengths of stay in Superior!
