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Monument Canyon and Broadway Cave

Apache Junction, Arizona

3.6/5
based on 5 reviews

Details

Distance

3.69 miles

Elevation Gain

866 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Derek Mathewson

Monument Canyon and Broadway Cave is a scenic hike that offers a gorgeous view of the Apache Junction area. Very low traffic, so you'll most likely have it to yourself.

...Who doesn't enjoy a short adventure to an scenic location?! If I were to guess, I'd say a good majority of us. This four mile, low trafficked hike to the Broadway Cave will lead you to one of the best spots to hang out or watch the sunset. The Broadway trailhead is located by taking Highway 60 East of Mesa to Apache Junction, where the expressway ends but Highway 60 continues. Shortly after the expressway ends is the first stoplight, which is Mountain View Road. Turn left here and proceed 1.5 miles to Broadway Ave. Turn right and go one mile. To the entrance of the hike, there's a fence and parking lot on the left hand side for 6-8 vehicles. If you get to Superstition View Drive, then you've gone a little too far. Park here and take Jacob's Crosscut trail that starts just over the fence. 

The first part of the hike uses Jacob's Crosscut Trail starting from the Broadway trailhead, but there are three intersections along the way. At about 0.6 miles, continue straight on the Crosscut Trail rather than right on the Goldmine Trail. At the 1.3 mile mark, go straight into Monument Canyon on an slightly beaten foot path rather then left on the Crosscut Trail. This part of the hike was pretty inspiring for me. Hiking through the GIANT 8-15 foot Saguaro Cactuses were just amazing! I've always been attracted and amazed by the different features and formations that these giant wonders offer. Hopefully you'll enjoy this part of the hike too! Finally, at about 1.6 miles, turn right onto an unofficial unbeaten path, where you'll see a fairly large sized cairn at the junction. Follow that trail for about .4 miles to the entrance to the cave. Once there, soak up what the scenery has to offer. The fresh breeze and cinematic view is absolutely refreshing! This hike is fairly off the beaten path, so there's a good chance you'll have it to yourself.

Once you're done capturing some great photos and catching up on some bonding time with your mate, you'll head back the same way you came. The trail offers little to no shade, so make sure to cover up and wear some sunscreen. Remember, respect the land and leave no trace. Happy Trails!! 

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Features

Chillin
Photography
Hiking
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Scenic

Reviews

The hike to Broadway Cave reinforces Arizona's best qualities: that everything is out there to try to kill you (sharp jagged rocks, plants, animals, the sun). Don't hike to the cave unless you have strong knees, great balance and are not afraid of heights. its very easy to loose track, slip. Bring a flashlight, take Advil. If you can manage the risks, the views are incredible. Follow the trail in Alltrails app to not get lost.

The Broadway Cave has grown in popularity in recent years due to it's close proximity to the city and ease of access. The hike to the cave is easy and relatively flat until the end where you have to climb up to the cave. The views can be quite spectacular and is a perfect spot to catch the sunset.

I love this hike, but note that it does get a bit challenging at the end. Almost completely flat until the last section, which is a pretty steep climb up to the cave entrance. Always bring more water than you think you need, lots of sunblock and watch out for rattlers. Note that there are also bats in this cave, you can hear them squeaking above you :)

This was a beautiful hike, but could be a little challenging to find. Make sure your prepared with extra water and food, in case you miss one of the unmarked trails. I added a few pictures of the two unmarked turns you will take. The last ascent is fairly steep, with loose rock, so good soles are a must. Enjoy!

I wouldn’t recommend Broadway Cave if you aren’t an avid hiker. It’s really easy to get off trail and really rocky towards the end. The view from the cave is gorgeous but I was really disappointed with the graffiti that was inside the cave.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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