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Recreation Region: Mesa Ranger District

Needle Vista

Located along State Route 88 just north of Apache Junction, this vista overlooks a distinctive peak, known as Weavers Needle, located in the Superstition Mountains. This peak was created when a thick layer of tuff (fused volcanic ash) - a volcanic plug - was heavily eroded, creating the spire as an erosional remnant with a summit elevation of 4,555 feet (1,388 m). It is set in a desert landscape of cactus and mesquite bush, with large Saguaro cacti particularly prominent.
 

Needle Vista is located just off State Route 88 (Apache Trail) on the way to Canyon Lake. This small parking lot accesses the vista viewpoint and a short hiking trail. Please stay on the designated path and do not wander off-trail. There are no restrooms or services at this vista; for further amenities and services, continue your adventure north up the Apache Trail towards Canyon Lake and Tortilla Flat!

General Information

Year-round

Day use only; no overnight camping

Restrictions

  • Small parking lot; no trailers
  • Day use only

No fees are required for this site

Front view of the Mesa Ranger Station building with a clear sky in the background.

Address: 5140 E Ingram St, Mesa, AZ 85205
Phone: (480) 610-3300
Hours: Open Mon. - Fri. 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (closed noon to 12:30 p.m.) Passes, permits and products not sold after 4 p.m. Closed Saturday and Sunday (Closed on federal holidays)

Getting There

Latitude / Longitude

Latitude: 33.495647

Longitude: -111.4641426

Directions

Drive east from Phoenix on U.S. Highway 60. At Exit 196, drive north 1 mile on Idaho Road to State Route 88 (Apache Trail). Turn right on State Route 88 and drive approximately 9 miles north, turning right into the parking area.

Facility and Amenity Information

Water

Potable water is not available at this site.

Horse/Pack Animal Information

Horse/Pack animals are not allowed at this site.

Recreation Opportunities

Last updated June 4, 2025