The Superstition Mountains are located east of Phoenix, Arizona. We visited the area a couple of weeks ago, staying at the Lost Dutchman State Park Campground. We've visited this park several times over the years - always in the spring. We like to go there for the spectacular scenery, for the abundance of wildflowers, and, of course, for the birds. Join me for a tour of this little gem of a place where just about anyone who loves the outdoors can find something of interest.
Geology of the Superstitions
About 40 million years ago, the last layers of ancient sedimentary rocks were removed by a period of intense stream erosion. All that remained was a flatland of Precambrian basement rock. Some 25 million years ago violent steam blast eruptions alternating with periods of collapse, formed a huge volcanic caldera (crater) filled with rhyolite flows. Frothy volcanic ash deposits spilled out and blanketed the countryside. Later, renewed magma pressure from beneath pushed the solidified interior of the volcano upward more than 2000 feet in a geologic action called "resurgence." The former caldera was replaced by a resurgent dome. Erosion has removed the ash material from around the volcano's core. The cliffs before you are weathered remnants of the resurgent dome. This volcanic rock that forms the Superstition Mountains stands as a reminder of a violent geologic past.
Source: information sign at the park