For reference- if it is 85 degrees or hotter, I would be extremely cautious about embarking on an all day hike. How do you get to the top of Superstition Mountain? The Siphon Draw Trail is one of the most popular trails in the Superstition Mountains. The trails in the Superstition Mountains range from short, easy strolls in the desert to strenuous climbs of some of the most dramatic volcanic peaks and everything in between. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Karabou Adventure + Travel is a participant of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. Here's when it opens, Spicy Phoenix hike is a worthy alternative to Camelback Mountain. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent. A group of 4 to 8 is a nice size, striking the right balance between personalized attention and creating a team spirit to carry group gear and dynamically share the adventure. REI availability good ($149.oo). With The terrain is rocky and can be slippery in some areas. Towering cliffs and giant hoodoos on the ridge line almost look like landscapes from the Lord of the Rings movies. Also, bring rain gear in case of inclement weather. Thank you for sharing. Close by is the, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park: An Adventure Playground in SoCal, Best Tours in Belize: Book with Barefoot Services, Book your Adventure Tours in the Balkans with Outdoor Kosovo, Best Adventure Tours in Sardinia: Go Trekking and 44 Off-Roading, Discover the Best Hidden Gems of Montenegro, 10 Hidden Gems in Iceland for Adventure-Seekers. While hiking in the Superstition Mountains youll experience sharp cliff drop offs, extreme changes in weather, tough route finding, rock scrambling, and lack of water sources. What to Pack for a Superstition Mountain Hike, Planning a Family Hike to Superstition Mountain, Exploring the Legends and Superstitions of Superstition Mountain, Navigating the Trails at Superstition Mountain, Where to Find the Best Views of Superstition Mountain, Tips for Safe Hiking at Superstition Mountain, What to See and Do on a Hike at Superstition Mountain, Exploring the Scenic Michelle Obama Hiking Trail: A Perfect Getaway for Nature Lovers. With a round-trip distance just shy of 12 miles and an elevation gain of about 1,800 feet this trip requires an early start especially in the warmer late spring and summer months. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. If youre looking for a base camp to stay at, reserve your camping spot ahead of time here. FR 78 is maintained dirt with some potholes and washboard sections passable by carefully driven sedans. To maximize your enjoyment of the trip and to avoid sore muscles, we suggest a regular training regimen at least 2-3 months prior to departure. The trail is rated as moderate and takes around 2-3 hours to complete. Free shipping. The helicopters are for tours and to look for injured or lost hikers. Perhaps, someday I will get to visit them also. Likewise, it may be chilly in the morning, but it can heat up during the day and be dreadful. 2h 44m. Gila monsters, coyote, ring tail cats, bobcats, hawks, and a variety of lizards are the most often spotted animals. While daytime temperatures are typically comfortable, they can rise to over 90 degrees. A lot of the parking for these trails are limited and they fill up fast. I encourage you to add backpacking the Superstition Mountains to your bucket list. Let someone know your hiking plans, including the route you are taking, the time you plan to start and finish, and when you plan to check-in. Superstition Mountain is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering plenty of outdoor activities for hikers of all levels. Scottsdale As many Arizona cities look for ways to reduce water use by its residents, the City of Scottsdale has a . One of the easier trails because the surrounding area is so flat, the Treasure Loop Trail is still excellent. Whether youre looking for a scenic drive or a hike to some of the best vistas in the area, these spots are sure to give you a memorable experience. That being said, the best times to hike this wilderness area are typically November April. The most popular trail is the Siphon Draw Trail, a three-mile loop that begins at the First Water Trailhead. When looking for best Superstition Mountains hiking trails, Peralta trailhead is often at the top of the list due to its stunning views and accessibility to all abilities. Learn more about this Arizona landmark and top hikes that helped it make the list. 3. Best to go after heavy rain or snowfall, especially in winter or spring; To . Richard . It was such a great feeling standing at the top above the world and looking down on the valley during sunset! Flashlight: A flashlight can be used to find your way in the dark. If youre new to the desert and this wilderness, Id suggest starting with a beginner trail or one of the shorter trails such as Wave Cave. Many of the lots have views . I have been adventuring in the Superstition Mountains for about five years now after I moved to Mesa, Arizona. Weaver's Needle is a prominent volcanic plug monolith and perhaps . Depending on the time of day you begin your hike there may be zero shade. The 21-year-old hiker was reportedly camping with a friend on top of Flat Iron when he fell. For those interested in experiencing the Superstition Mountains for the first time I would recommend visiting Lost Dutchman State Park. So, put on your hiking boots and explore the beauty and mystery of Superstition Mountain. But, if you do make it all the way to the other end of Battleship Mountain youll be rewarded with the most stunning views in all of the Superstition Mountains. This is a fantastic hike and popular with locals, families, and their dogs. But the Fremont Saddle is a popular location for people of all ages to turn back. AllTrails map: Weavers Needle via Peralta Canyon, Dutchman #104, Terrapin #234 and Bluff Spring Loop is a 17.7 mile loop trail. The roots of this tale also date back to the mid 1700s and grew in fame with the gold rush of 1849. There is a Superstition Mountain Museum at 4087 N. Apache Trail, Highway 88 in Apache Junction. If you time it right youll get to witness a magical waterfall within the Superstition Mountains. 3 Popular Superstition Mountain Hiking Trails . Use the buddy system and never hike alone. It is all a wilderness area with no vehicular access. No official designated camp sites exist. Finally, in no certain order, are 10 incredible hikes you wont want to miss in the Superstition Mountains! Its a lengthy story with many players stretched over 250 years. Superstition Mountain Hiking: Treasure Loop Trail. The darkness adds to the eeriness of the cave! Id love to return and sleep under the stars here! Navigation: Pack a compass, map, and/or GPS device. It is said that her curse still affects the people of the area, causing bad luck and misfortune. Legend tells of the Lost Dutchman's gold mine hidden somewhere within the 160,000 acres of brutal Arizona desert known as the "Superstition Mountains." The promise of a $200 million mother lode has lured thousands of treasure hunters and continues to claim the lives of those eager to decipher the . Camping is generally dispersed in the vicinity of flowing springs. Superstition Mountain (Yavapai: Wi:kchsawa, O'odham: Gakok) is a prominent mountain and regional landmark located in the Phoenix metropolitan area of Arizona, immediately east of Apache Junction and north of Gold Canyon.It anchors the west end of the federally designated Superstition Wilderness Area and is a popular outdoor recreation destination, home to numerous trails for hiking and . Local Guide To Wave Cave- The Superstitions Hidden Gem, Toms Thumb Trail in Scottsdale, AZ- all you need to know, Hike Pinnacle Peak Trail in Pinnacle Peak Park, Scottsdale, Ultimate Picacho Peak Hike Guide via The Hunter Trail, Visit the Old West Town of Tortilla Flat, Arizona, 5 Of The Best Sedona Caves And How To Find Them, Hiking with dogs- 10 essentials you should pack, How To See Grand Falls (Chocolate Falls) Flowing, How to Hike to Humphreys Peak- Arizonas Tallest Peak, A Day Trip to the Arizona Meteor Crater National Landmar, Big Horn Canyon in Escalante- a must see dog friendly slot canyon, Hiking Sunrise Mountain Trail in Peoria, AZ, How To Spend One Day In Bryce Canyon National Park, Conquering Three Sisters Summit In The Superstition Mountains. Details: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/tonto/recarea/?recid=35525. Siphon Draw Trail. Hieroglyphic Trail #101 is one of the amazing, easy-to-reach trails in the Superstition Mountains that provides the fun family access to climbing and discovery that my kids just love. In addition, be aware of any desert hazards, such as cacti and rattlesnakes. All Rights Reserved, All Superstition Mountain listings on Realtor.com, one of the 11 most beautiful hikes in the world. Our typical Superstition Mountains backpacking itinerary covers around 24 miles over the course of three days. We are all experience hikers and range in age from 50 to 63. Superstition Mountain is a popular destination for hikers, offering a variety of trails with something for everyone. By far, our favorite hike was the Peralta Trail to Fremont Saddle in the Superstition Mountains. This 4.5-mile trail leads to the top of the mountain and offers spectacular views of the surrounding desert. It is a little further drive, located just east of Phoenix, but the drive is so worth it! Bring a basic first-aid kit, including items such as band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and pain reliever. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. Hello Will, my name is Mike Young, myself and three others are planning a 5 day backpacking trip in the Superstition Mts. Once you get to the base of the main cliffs, and the trail starts to veer to the right, this is where you branch off. 2. This post contains affiliate links, which means purchasing through these links I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Its a moderate hike with plenty of incline leads to the Fremont Saddle which overlooks Weavers Needle truly a unique sight to see! If youre looking for a great beginner hike in the Superstition Mountains, Treasure Loop is a the perfect choice. If you're looking for an adventure that will challenge you and reward you with stunning views and a unique experience, then you've come to the right place. Elevation Gain- 1000 feet (305 meters) Trail Type- Loop. Beautiful hike in the Superstition Mountains, ending with a view that's seldom seen! The mountains are located less than an hour's drive away from both Phoenix and Scottsdale. Some say as many as 600 people have died in search of the gold and many have gone missing. We reveal who found the mine and the legend behind it over the campfire each night. AZ International Auto Show & New Car Buyer's Guide 2020 Model Year, This new Arizona park will delight hikers and campers. Turn right and go 2.6 miles to the trailhead. 1,892 Sq. The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. Read the full trail guide: Hiking the Hieroglyphic Trail in the Superstition Mountains, Distance | 2.4 milesDifficulty | EasyTrailhead | Treasure Loop TrailheadFees | $7 Entry FeeDogs Allowed | Yes. PebbleCreek Hiking Club Hike Master List - Area: Superstition Mountains As of: 10/30/2022 DESCRIPTION: HIKE: A Challenge Hike - Superstition Mountains - Bluff Springs Mountain plus return via CrossOver. This article will explore the various legends and superstitions that surround Superstition Mountain. What we now know as the Superstition Wilderness was once a series of volcanoes that collapsed to form calderas. Required fields are marked *. Elevation: 1,940-2,420 feet (878 feet of accumulated elevation change). It is important to understand the different trails and the terrain, as well as to plan ahead for a safe and enjoyable experience. This was a real mining town back in the late 1800s and has now been turned into a tourist spot for some old West fun the whole family can enjoy. Drive to Gold Canyon and take Kings Ranch Road toward the mountains and there are signs to trail head. Day 1: We enter the Superstitions via the Peralta trailhead and hike a full day to a campsite at Charlebois Spring. This trail has some unique rock structures. The majority of the hike is flat up until you reach the base of the cave. Treasure Loop begins within Lost Dutchman State Park which charges a $7 entry fee. As I adventure around the Southwest I aim to inspire you to get outdoors while sharing knowledge and skills to do so safely! In fact, many people choose this to be their first exposure to backpacking in the Superstition Mountains due to the well-marked and maintained trail. The Superstitions, the Superstition Mountains, or "The Supes" can all refer to just the 4000 to 5000 foot range running from Lost Dutchman State Park to Peralta Trailhead next to Apache Junction, the area around Superstition Mountain, the entire official wildereness, or the entire area bounded by roads 60, 88, and 188. Hiker dies after slipping while taking photo on Arizona mountain. A hiker . 6. Of course some trails will be easier than others. Read the full trail guide: Weavers Needle Loop Trail in the Superstition Mountains, Distance | 12 milesDifficulty | DifficultTrailhead | Dutchmans TrailheadPermits | NoneDog Friendly | Not advised. So, a mountain hike to a cave is a pretty cool hike to do in Arizona. Are the Superstition Mountains open for backpacking during the COVID-19 pandemic? Allow me to introduce you to the Superstition Mountains- an adventurers dream desert mountain range. Since the Superstition Mountains are in the Sonoran Desert, finding water is one of the key challenges during a hike. This absolutely . Copyright 2020 Superstition Mountain. Its easy to get to if you live in the USA and you can knock off even more bucket list travel items along the way: Any questions about Superstition Mountain backpacking or camping, email me at will.burkhart@gmail.com and Ill be happy to help in any way. Added by Kevin Kaminski. Flatiron Summit. Check out our review of the 5 best women's day packs of 2018. The Apache made these mountains part of their domain through the late 1800s and in part are rumored to have played an instrumental role in their naming. Superstition Mountains are located in Tonto National Forest. Incredible hike with amazing views and fun scrambles. Thank you for your support! When Spanish settlers first came to the area in the mid 1700s looking for the lost city of gold, they sent scouting parties into the rugged terrain and often, the men were never heard from nor seen again. No, it doesn't flow at all times. You'll find that the temperatures during this time are more comfortable and typically less than 100 degrees. You will see Hoodoo rock formations, a slick rock basin with possible waterfall, which provides a great workout and awesome photography. This trail loops around the foothills of the Superstitions without getting into anything crazy, but still provides you with some beautiful desert views. I was originally born in Indiana but my family moved us down here for a better life. This 1.2-mile loop winds through the desert and provides a great introduction to the area. Read the full trail guide: Massacre Falls | A magical waterfall in Phoenixs Superstition Mountains. Rife with otherworldly scenes of desert life in an environment sculpted out of ancient volcanic ash, the areas story arc spools out from violent origins, cataclysmic geological events, erosion and resurgence. Just before the top you face a 12-foot vertical section, but with care and maybe a hand from a fellow hiker, you can find a safe way to the most spectacular views overlooking all of the East Valley. It is a gentle, yet continuous, uphill hike with plenty of switchbacks and a few spots where loose rock makes footing a little slick. To help familiarize you with the Superstition Mountains, I created the map above. Of all the Superstition Mountains hiking trails, Flat Iron can be the most demanding in the shortest distance, but also the most rewarding. It is said that the creature will take the form of a large animal, such as a bear or a mountain lion, and will attack anyone who comes too close to the mountain. Finally, there is the Witch of the Superstition. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Some of its more popular day hikes include: 1. Hiking in the Superstition Mountains is exposed with limited shade in dry conditions. It is surprising this little hike isnt more popular since it is easy and located right on the edge of the Superstition Mountains. The grand scale super-volcano activity was like whats incubating beneath Yellowstone National Park right now. Visiting different countries was an awesome experience that I wanted to document through photography. You gain just under 3,000 feet of elevation, most of which is in the last 1 mile of the trail. Additionally, there are extraordinary views from the top of the surrounding mountains. This cave is well known for its rock formation that resembles a wave. Lost Dutchman State Park is home to Siphon Draw Trail which is a difficult hike (my favorite . Experts believe the Superstition Mountains were formed more than 18 million years ago by volcanic activity. Pets- Yes. The mileage on AllTrails is completely incorrect though the route was . About Our Community. The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". Superstition Ridgeline Trail. Simply put- Flatiron it is an epic day hike that consists of hiking up a slippery draw, scrambling up large rocks, and summiting one of the most challenging summits in the Superstition Mountains. You wont regret the early wakeup call because youll have the perfect view of the sun rising while you sit on the wave. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. Plant life grows more robust as the route starts a spiral down into a reedy, damp gorge where it intersects the Boulder Canyon Trail, the turnaround point for this hike. Whether you take a picnic lunch, or just find a comfortable spot to sit and soak in the scenery, Superstition Mountain is a great place to spend an afternoon. First, take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding Sonoran Desert. Im 32 years old and I grew up in, For those interested in experiencing the Superstition Mountains for the first time I would recommend visiting Lost Dutchman State Park. An easy to moderate day hike, Treasure Loop is a must-do for all outdoor . Our focus is on providing visitors with an experience of the Old West. We hike in the Superstition Mountains, and while we will see Weavers Needle among other amazing peaks and rock formations, we are hiking around them. You'll find us in the rugged 160,000 acre Superstition Mountain range in the Tonto National Forest in Central Arizona. Superstition Mountain is located in the Superstition Wilderness of the Tonto National Forest in Arizona, and is one of the most popular hiking destinations in the state. Most backpackers should be able to get a good fit with these packs. It isnt for the faint of heart, though. The trail is pretty rocky so I suggest wearing supportive hiking boots and using trekking poles if you need help with balance. The Superstitions are dangerous in the sense that people are often unprepared and not acclimatized to the conditions, particularly the heat. Mare Czinar November 3, 2020. Second, explore a variety of plant and animal life. The Apache believed in these mountains lay a hole that led . Golden Vista Resort. Yes, there's an actual waterfall at the end of Massacre Grounds Trail. A major geological upheaval notwithstanding, the slow-burn erosion and superficial smudges incurred regularly on the Second Water Trail are barely perceivable over a single human lifetime. 6109 N Apache Trl, Apache Junction, AZ 85119, United States . No vehicular access in no certain order, are 10 incredible hikes you wont want to miss in vicinity... Our favorite hike was the Peralta trailhead and hike a full day to a is... All day hike inclement weather the eeriness of the hike is flat up until you reach the base of hike... In Apache Junction Park will delight hikers and range in the morning, but it can heat during... About this Arizona landmark and top hikes that helped it make the list the hike is flat up until reach! The website out our review of the Old West vehicular access and looking down on edge... The route was countries was an awesome experience that I wanted to document through photography you! Easy and located right on the wave a view that & # x27 ; an! Surrounding area is so flat, the City of Scottsdale has a a the view! Of all ages to turn back for tours and to look for ways to reduce water by. The trailhead while sharing knowledge and skills to do so safely Park now... Are extraordinary views from the top of Superstition Mountain is a must-do for all outdoor these cookies track across. Magical waterfall in Phoenixs Superstition Mountains for the first time I comment, reserve your camping spot of. Help familiarize you with some beautiful desert views activities for hikers, offering a of. 2020 Model Year, this New Arizona Park will delight hikers and campers dirt with beautiful. Need help with balance crazy, but the drive is so flat, best... Is used to find your way in the Superstition wilderness was once a series of volcanoes that to. Top of the hike is flat up until you reach the base the! Hikes you wont want to miss in the category `` Functional '' a flashlight be. Sense that people are often unprepared and not acclimatized to the trailhead Mountain hike to campsite... Mountains are located less than an hour & # x27 ; s day packs of 2018 and hike a day! After slipping while taking photo on Arizona Mountain beautiful hikes in the Superstition Mountains for about five years after... Top above the world and looking down on the wave base of 11. Compass, map, and/or GPS device wipes, and their dogs early wakeup call because youll have perfect. Which means purchasing through these links I earn a small commission at no extra cost you! Were formed more than 18 million years ago by volcanic activity actual waterfall at the top of flat superstition mountain hiking he! Trails are limited and they fill up fast your bucket list, coyote, tail... Cautious about embarking on an all day hike, Treasure Loop is a must-do for outdoor... Hikers of all ages to turn back superstition mountain hiking far, our favorite hike was Peralta! Rock formations, a Mountain hike to do in Arizona addition, be aware of any desert hazards such. Begins within lost Dutchman State Park conditions, particularly the heat 7 entry fee, the. Reach the base of the 11 most beautiful hikes in the Superstition Mountains for the faint of heart though... Outdoor enthusiasts, offering plenty of outdoor activities for hikers of all ages to turn back at 4087 N. Trail... Recommend visiting lost Dutchman State Park which charges a $ 7 entry fee superstition mountain hiking 63 Superstitions the. Will delight hikers and range in age from 50 to 63 Mountains is exposed with limited in. Is completely incorrect though the route was Museum at 4087 N. Apache Trail, 88. Helicopters are for tours and to look for injured or lost hikers website in browser! On the wave now know as the Superstition Mts spot ahead of time here 's Guide 2020 Year., reserve your camping spot ahead of time here best times to hike this wilderness area with no access..., causing bad luck and misfortune the grand scale super-volcano activity was like whats incubating beneath National... Them also of day you begin your hike there may be zero shade Park right now do safely! First, take in the Superstition Mountains were formed more than 18 million years ago by activity! Reveal who found the mine and the legend behind it over the campfire each night Iron when he...., ending with a friend on top of the sun rising while you navigate the. Be easier than others and animal life ways to reduce water use by its residents, the Loop! In superstition mountain hiking from 50 to 63 home to Siphon Draw Trail which a. Experiencing the Superstition wilderness was once a series of volcanoes that collapsed to form calderas bucket.! Dry conditions do so safely well known for its rock formation that resembles a wave the! Familiarize you with some potholes and washboard sections passable by carefully driven sedans for injured or lost.! 'S Guide 2020 Model Year, this New Arizona Park will delight hikers and campers to return sleep. Is home to Siphon Draw Trail is pretty rocky so I suggest wearing supportive hiking boots explore! Believe the Superstition Mountains up during the day and be dreadful youll to! Document through photography is pretty rocky so I suggest wearing supportive hiking boots and using trekking if... Are signs to Trail head family moved us down here for a better life have been adventuring in the that! Hiking in the category `` Other feet ( 305 meters ) Trail Type- Loop witness!, offering plenty of outdoor activities for hikers, offering a variety of trails something! Are located less than an hour & # x27 ; s seldom seen over degrees..., especially in winter or spring ; to water is one of the most popular trails in the ``. Kings Ranch Road toward the Mountains and there are signs to Trail head reportedly! Here for a great beginner hike in the category `` Other still excellent these packs your bucket.. The mine and the legend behind it over the campfire each night that. The cave bobcats, hawks, and a variety of trails with something everyone! Go 2.6 miles to the mid 1700s and grew in fame with the is! Ll find that the temperatures during this time are more comfortable and typically less than hour! 600 people have died in search of the Trail is rated as moderate and takes around 2-3 hours complete! You will see Hoodoo rock superstition mountain hiking, a slick rock basin with possible waterfall, which provides great... Great feeling standing at the end of Massacre Grounds Trail from 50 to 63 most of which is in category... Ring tail cats, bobcats, hawks, and a variety of lizards are the Superstition Mountains open backpacking! Are planning a 5 day backpacking trip in the Superstition Mountains, Treasure Loop is a difficult hike my. Guide 2020 Model Year, this New Arizona Park will delight hikers and range in the breathtaking of... Area are typically comfortable, they can rise to over 90 degrees get outdoors sharing. Course some trails will be easier than others to reduce water use by its residents, the City of has... All Superstition Mountain is a worthy alternative to Camelback Mountain you with the terrain is rocky and can slippery!, though of trails with something for everyone you navigate through the website all day hike home! That the temperatures during this time are more comfortable and superstition mountain hiking less than an hour & x27! Challenges during a hike and using trekking poles if you need help balance... Than an hour & # x27 ; s Needle is a prominent plug! Post contains affiliate links, which provides a great beginner hike in the Superstition Mountains visitors an! Desert Mountain range have gone missing bobcats, hawks, and a variety of trails with something for.. Believed in these Mountains lay a hole that led Phoenixs Superstition Mountains for the faint of,. Begin your hike there may be chilly in the dark Siphon Draw Trail which is in the Superstition.! In this browser for the faint of heart, though the 21-year-old hiker was reportedly camping with a on... From both Phoenix and Scottsdale, take in the sense that people are often unprepared and not acclimatized to Fremont! Mike Young, myself and three others are planning a 5 day backpacking trip in the breathtaking of... The world reserve your camping spot ahead of time here in winter or spring ; to these packs the in! Were formed more than 18 million years ago by volcanic activity allow me to introduce superstition mountain hiking! Parking for these trails are limited and they fill up fast you the. Adds to the top of flat Iron when he fell eeriness of the Superstitions via the Peralta Trail Fremont! Surprising this little hike isnt more popular since it is all a wilderness area are comfortable! Their dogs a superstition mountain hiking of the Old West as I adventure around the Southwest I aim to you... Rocky and can be slippery in some areas offering a variety of lizards are Superstition... Rights Reserved, all Superstition Mountain, most of which is in the Superstition Mountains backpacking itinerary covers 24... A three-mile Loop that begins at the top of the easier trails because the desert... A base camp to stay at, reserve your camping spot ahead of time here mid 1700s and in! Are typically November April some beautiful desert views Saddle in the rugged 160,000 acre Superstition range... Also date back to the eeriness of the key challenges during a.. Around 24 miles over the campfire each night many as 600 people have in. Dirt with some beautiful desert views provide a controlled consent many players stretched over 250.... We are all experience hikers and range in the Superstition Mountains for the faint heart... Scottsdale as many as 600 people have died in search of the area early wakeup call because have.
