Destination Superior

Scenic view near the cactus and succulent garden at Boyce Thompson Arboretum.

BY ANDREAS SCHMALZ info@valleyvibenews.com

Along Highway 60 about 70 miles east of Phoenix, the old mining town of Superior makes for an interesting day trip for seekers of nature, adventure and history.

Sadly, 2021 was not a kind year to the area, as the Telegraph Fire devastated the region and burned over 282 square miles of land. As the earth recovers from that, opportunities to enjoy what the town has to offer return.

For those seeking an easygoing excursion, Boyce Thompson Arboretum―also home to the Wallace Desert Garden―is Arizona’s oldest and largest botanical garden. It features plants from other countries, 4.7 miles of trails (some of which are even handicap accessible), a visitor’s center, picnic area, and the more challenging, rugged High Trail leads to the Queen Creek riparian area and incredible views of the surrounding area. Guided tours are offered October through April. Wallace Desert Garden is a 13-acre botanical garden that was transplanted from its former home in Scottsdale back in 2015. Regardless of your knowledge of plants, the arboretum is a wonderful destination all by itself, and since it was spared from the Telegraph Fire, it’s almost like an island unto itself.

Superior History

After your visit, you may want to stop and check out the historic part of town along Main Street, lined with boutiques, art galleries, antique shops and places to dine. There’s so much to experience out in Superior, you’ll likely wish there were a few more hours in the day to see it all.

BOYCE THOMPSON ARBORETUM

37615 E. Arboretum Way Superior, AZ 85173 Get There Take I-17 S to AZ-101 E 25.9 miles to US-60 E Exit 55A-B toward Globe. Follow US-60 E to your destination in Pinal County (46.2 mi) and turn right on East Arboretum Way. Cost $15/person; $5/Ages 5–12 Hours May—September; Open daily 6 a.m.–3 p.m. (Last admission 2 p.m.) Closed July 4 October—April; Open daily 8 a.m.–5 p.m. (Last admission 4 p.m.) Closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day Info www.btarboretum.org