long hike through the Superstition Wilderness to a running spring
I should start by saying we took this hike under some rare circumstances. It had been raining for three days prior to a clear and sunny hiking day. Nearly every desert wash we crossed (which would usually be dry) was flowing. The wash near dripping springs was flowing like it was a perennial creek. The multiple crossings of this wash would have been a snap had it been dry, but the water made it more interesting. We were enchanted by all the water on this hike. In fact, the flowing wash made the arrival at dripping spring somewhat anti-climactic.
Start from the Peralta Trailhead (don't forget your parking fee!). Take the Duchman's Trail (TR104) East, skirting along the South edge of the wilderness boundary. You can see the Quarter Circle U ranch to the south, which was a popular starting point for prospectors looking for the Lost Duchman's mine. This section of the trail is attractive for the abundance of Saguaro in this wide open valley. After walking about 2.2 miles, you come to the well signed junction of TR108 (Coffee Flat Trail).
The Coffee Flat trail continues past Miner's Needle on your left (look for the hole in the rock that suggested the name). This area follows the Whitlow Canyon wash eventually coming to a windmill. This windmill is known as Reids water. Go through the gate (close all gates behind you) and continue along the trail. The trail now enters Randolph Canyon. After about 6.2 total miles of hiking, watch the right side of the trail for some water seepage from the rocks. You will notice some vegetation clinging to the walls. A closer look reveals dripping springs, with water dripping out of the rock into the wash.
This is a pretty place to have lunch, as there is good shade trees here. When you've finished relaxing, return the way you came.
