Legend Of The Lost Gold Mine

While hiking, you might meet people who are still searching for the gold mine supposedly discovered by Dutchman Jacob Waltz. If you’re intrigued and want to learn more about his story, visit the Superstition Mountain Museum. While the highlight of the museum is the Jacob Waltz exhibit, you’ll also find a Native American exhibit, a geological exhibit, and one dedicated to the gold seekers. Outside the main building, visit a gold mill, the Apacheland Barn, and old Western storefronts.

After you learn a thing or two about the gold rush in Arizona, the Apache tribes, and the lost Dutchman, you might want to experience a gold-mining ghost town.

Goldfield Ghost Town

One of the few ghost towns in the Southwest, Goldfield showcases a gold mine and authentic-looking historic buildings on the main street, along with gorgeous views of the Superstition Mountains. Take a guided tour of the gold mine, the reason the town once existed. The underground tours last about 25 minutes. Skip this activity if you are claustrophobic.

An even better introduction to the town is a ride on the narrow-track train that follows its outskirts. Listen to the conductor narrating its history and pointing out spots of interest. Pan for gold at Prospector’s Palace, visit the historical museum and a reptile museum, stop at one of the curio shops, and visit the Bordello and the church on top of the hill. The saloon offers Western-style food and drinks, and if you visit on a weekend, you can even see a gunfight.