Arizona has no shortage of hikes that lead to abandoned places, but this one is easily among the most underrated. Apache Tears Mine via Perlite Road Trail winds through a massive cave on its way to an abandoned obsidian mine, and it's an adventure you won't soon forget. The best part? It's under two miles long!
Editor's Note: The entrance to the mine is on private property and there is no public access. However, you can hike up to the gated area.
At just under two miles long and with an elevation gain of less than 300 feet, Apache Tears Mine via Perlite Road Trail is arguably one of the easiest hikes in Arizona.
Despite its lack of difficulty, the trail rewards hikers with sweeping panoramic vistas of the Tonto National Forest and the rugged desert landscape that comprises it.
The trail is mostly flat, which means all your energy can be used on taking in the beautiful surroundings.
Not too long after setting off on the trail, you'll come upon a large cave with several entrances.
It's littered with the trail's namesake, Apache Tears, which are obsidian rocks embedded in the sides of the cave.
Each cave opening offers a different perspective of the vast terrain that lies just beyond.
No matter where you look, the views are simply incredible.
Petroglyphs cover the walls inside the cave, adding an element of ancient history to your adventure.
Since the trail is so short, you'll have plenty of time to marvel at the images and ponder their meanings.
Hikers are asked not to go inside the mine, as it's located on private property.
You can, however, hike right up to the gated area, which is clearly marked and impossible to miss.
This hike is worth taking year-round, but if you're able to, we highly suggest visiting in the spring.
From late March until around mid-May, the hillsides come alive with eye-popping blooms in every color of the rainbow. The bright yellow poppies are especially gorgeous!
To learn more about the hike, visit its page on AllTrails.
Have you ever hiked Apache Tears Mine via Perlite Road Trail? If so, tell us all about your experience in the comments section below, and check out our previous article for another Arizona hike that leads to someplace abandoned.
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