WE FOUND GOLD IN THE SUPERSTITIONS

A Portfolio by Lon McAdam We Found Gold in the Superstitions

For generations, treasure hunters have been scouring the Superstition Mountains for some trace of the Lost Dutchman's gold. As legend would have it, there's a mother lode out there just waiting to be discovered. That's why prospectors from around the world have used everything from shovels and shamans to sound waves and satellites to find the fortune. Turns out, all anybody really needed was a good camera, water and a pair of hiking boots.

A Portfolio by Lon McAdam

PRECEDING PANEL: Within Fish Creek Canyon in the Superstition Mountains, a cluster of sunlit saguaros stand out against blazing orange and gold sycamore trees.

LEFT: Fall leaves float on a serene boulderstrewn pool in Fish Creek.

A Portfolio by Lon McAdam

A Portfolio by Lon McAdam

After a recent rain, ribbons of water flow down the cliffs of Fish Creek Canyon, which is decorated with cottonwood trees and catclaw acacia.

Proof of a steady water supply, bands of ash and cottonwood trees line the banks of creeks that flow along the canyon floors within the Superstitions.