Long before Arizona became famous for Grand Canyon National Park, spring getaways, and world-class golf, it was home to some of the busiest mines in the nation. Superior, Arizona, is one of those historic communities that has today reinvented itself as a place to hike, soar, eat, and drink—where a storied past has given way to a vibrant, adventure-ready community. Here’s how to explore Superior, Arizona.

Located only an hour outside of Phoenix, Superior, Arizona, is an ideal weekend getaway in the beautiful Sonoran Desert. Towering saguaro cacti dot the landscape as you ascend into town, and the dramatic Apache Leap Mountain comes up like a wall at the end of Main Street. 

It’s a place where the miles of hiking trails typically outnumber the trail users, artists and shop owners offer to take your photo in front of the murals downtown, and the pace of life seems to slow down just a touch. 

The fact that Superior is home to the largest arboretum in the state and one of the only places to soar in an engine-less glider gives it even more appeal. We recommend staying at least four days in Superior so that you have the chance to truly experience it all.

Day 1: Arrival in Phoenix / Hike Boyce Thompson Arboretum 

On your first day in Superior, you will likely be flying in and renting a car from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. This is a seamless process in what has been dubbed “America’s Friendliest Airport,” and before you know it, you’ll be cresting Gonzales Pass and leaving the city lights in the rear view mirror. Ahead, the rough, mineral-bearing Apache Leap Mountain and the cities of the Copper Corridor–Superior included–await. 

Just before you pull into town, you’ll come across Boyce Thompson Arboretum—the largest and oldest arboretum in the Grand Canyon State. Originating in 1924 by William Boyce Thompson, the founder of two nearby copper companies and a millionaire by the year 1907, it has been a longstanding research center and steward of sustainable landscaping in the southwest. Today it features exhibits from 11 regions throughout the world, from a gargantuan Australian eucalyptus forest to fictional-looking Boojum trees from Baja. We recommend at least two full hours to walk the nearly five miles (eight kilometers) of trails, look for hummingbirds and coatimundis, and enjoy the gurgles of Queen Creek in an otherwise arid desert landscape.

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! 

Day 2: Off Roading, Shopping, and Wine Tasting

Prepare for an adventure on day two in Superior. You’ll be making use of the area’s extensive off-road trail system, covering everything from the dramatic Box Canyon to the iconic Montana Mountain Loop. Your guide for the day is Superior Adventure Rentals. Their friendly team offers everything from expert advice about which vehicle best suits your needs to taking you on a guided tour. No matter which trail you end up on, you’re sure to have a one-of-a-kind view of Arizona’s Sonoran Desert with hardly another soul in sight.

After you’ve turned in your helmet, head to Main Street for an afternoon of leisurely shopping and sightseeing. Superior is home to a number of privately-owned shops filled with unique treasures, from antiques to postcards and apparel with whimsical flair. For lunch, don’t miss Bella’s Cafe, where hearty sandwiches and bubbly refreshments are only a preview of the menu. 

That evening, sidle up to the bar at Bruzzi Vineyard’s tasting room, where locally-grown wine is served in hearty pours. Depending on whether or not there was a food truck at Bruzzi, you may either kick back or walk a few short blocks to Silver King Smokehouse. 

Day 3: Soar Above Superior and Visit Art Galleries

On day three, take to the skies with Superior Soaring. This bucket-list adventure involves stepping into the front seat of a non-motorized aircraft, buckling in, and holding on for an incredibly scenic journey as a mechanical wench whips you into the air. Down below, Picketpost Mountain and Apache Leap fall away as you ride on thermal drafts that lift you above the desert floor. Don’t worry, there is an expert pilot sitting behind you to guide you through this truly exhilarating experience in Superior!

Reluctantly touch back down and return to Main Street for more Superior exploration. Today, you might stop into one of the many art galleries, where you are just as likely to get engaged in conversation with the painter, sculptor, or photographer as you are to find a beautiful souvenir for yourself or a loved one. Then, visit the Bob Jones Museum. Operated by the Superior Historical Society, this is the former home of Arizona’s sixth governor, Robert Taylor “Bob” Jones. It’s filled with local memorabilia that highlights life in an Arizona copper mining town, from black and white photographs to a parade of historic hard hats. 

For dinner, dig into the Mexican fare famous around Arizona’s Copper Corridor. The menu at Jalapeños is so big that it lives on a wall outside the front door, while their spices will remind you what part of the country you’re in! For dessert, try a raspado at El Barrio. A Mexican shaved-ice treat featuring flavors like mango and cinnamon, it’s the perfect cap on a great day in Superior. 

Day 4: Morning Hike and the Rest of the Copper Corridor

On your final day in Superior, fuel up with a cup of hot coffee and a home-cooked pastry or breakfast sandwich at one of the many coffee shops in town. Then, take to the singletrack on the 11.65-mile (18.7-kilometer) Legends of Superior Trail (known as LOST). Open to hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders, chances are that those on two feet will only want to bite off a segment of the entire trail. Select from the beautiful Arnett Canyon, Queen Creek, or ponder the history of the area at the 1877 Pinal Townsite. Those eager for a longer workout can opt for the 8.7-mile (14-kilometer) Picketpost Loop, which features segments of the Arizona Trail and LOST. As the route circumnavigates the base of Picketpost Mountain, it serves up creek crossings (weather dependent), plenty of opportunities for wildlife sightings, and views galore. 

Finally, return to your car and head back to Phoenix. Or, continue deeper into the Copper Corridor to explore the communities of Miami, Globe, and Oracle.

This story was created in partnership with Untraveled.

Prepared by Whitney James, Adventure Seeker