Picketpost Mountain Natural Area

Take a hike up this popular mountain in Arizona.

Picketpost Mountain is close to Superior, Arizona, about 40 miles east of Phoenix. Picketpost Mountain gets its name from an early military camp established at the base in 1870. The soldiers nicknamed the mountain "Picketpost" because it was used as a sentinel point to guard their camp from attacks. The military camp grew into what is now Superior, Arizona. The mountain trail is 4.2-miles (round trip) and is open to hikers year-round. Dogs are also welcome to come along with their owners. It is a somewhat difficult hike because there are some loose rocks and steep inclines. There is little to no shade, so always bring plenty of extra water with you. The 360-degree panoramic view at the top makes the climb well worth it.

A bench and a mailbox await hikers when they reach the top of Picketpost Mountain. The mailbox has notes, letters, and other items inside left by other hikers. Some notes are inspirational, others are letters about the past. Other hikers have left mementos in and around the mailbox. Visitors are welcome to contribute to the collection at the summit. Any hiking enthusiast will get a kick out of this trail in Arizona.