The Queen Creek Trailhead parking area officially open. Photo by Debbie Torres
Members of the Legends of Superior Trails Inc. (LOST) organization celebrated the ribbon cutting of the new trailhead parking lot for the Queen Creek Canyon segment of the LOST. The Queen Creek segment of the LOST was one of the first segments that was opened on the 11.65 mile trail over a decade ago. The major trailhead construction project was funded by Resolution Copper to improve trail parking and safety of those using the trail.
“Resolution Copper is proud to support the Legends of Superior Trails (LOST) Queen Creek trailhead enhancement and to celebrate the opening of the new parking lot,” stated Bryan Seppala, Principle Advisor – Economic Development & Social Investment. “The LOST trail system plays a vital role in Superior’s ongoing economic revitalization, and this project reflects our continued commitment to investing in initiatives that strengthen and diversify the local community.”
LOST, the Town of Superior and Resolution Copper have maintained a longstanding partnership to build, maintain and grow the trail system. The trail was one of the first economic development projects imagined by community leaders for many decades. The LOST connects through downtown Superior and can connect trail users to the Arizona Trail at Picket Post and the original Miami-Superior highway tunnel. This year LOST has also added additional equestrian amenities on the trail include a hitching post at the end of the Miners and Ranchers segment near the walk over bridge.
“The partnership between the Town of Superior, Resolution Copper and Legends of Superior Trails has turned a haphazard parking area with serious drainage issues into a beautiful area that serves as the trailhead for the Queen Creek Canyon segment of the LOST Trail. This is a great amenity for residents and visitors alike,” said Vice President of LOST, Jim Schenck.
Resolution Copper is the owner of the easement of the trail, which is the original US 60 alignment, opened in 1922, as the Miami-Superior Highway, also known as the Million Dollar Highway. The hike has become one of the most popular segments of the trail and is close to downtown Superior. This segment of the trail has been closed for almost a full year due to the construction of the new Queen Creek bridge on U.S. 60.
“The opening of the Queen Creek Trailhead marks another proud moment for Superior as we continue expanding outdoor recreation, while honoring the natural and cultural heritage of our region. We thank Resolution Copper for constructing this new gateway to the LOST. We’re also looking ahead with anticipation, once the new Queen Creek bridge is completed, we can reopen the Queen Creek Canyon segment of the trail. Most importantly, it is great to see that many local residents of the area worked on this project through their employment with Resolution Copper. This is what sustainable rural development looks like—community-driven, future-focused, and rooted in place,” said Mayor Mila Besich.
The Queen Creek segment of the LOST will remain closed until the bridge is completed. Until the trail can safely re-open, the parking lot will serve as overflow parking for downtown or access to the ADA shade structure and picnic spot.
Vicky Peacey, President of Resolution Copper, speaks at the ribbon cutting for the
new parking area for the LOST Queen Creek segment. Photo by Debbie Torres