Just at the edge of Phoenix, the Superstition Mountains offer a jaw-droppingly rugged landscape. It's this ruggedness that makes them so beautiful, but also what's made them so hard for travelers to navigate throughout history. During the 19th century, the main route through the mountains was a path carved by the Apaches-- later adopted by stagecoach travelers-- earning its name, Apache Trail. It's still one of the best ways through the Superstitions. Don't be fooled by its historic roots, this trail is a modern driver's dream, with hairpin turns, sweeping curves, and stunning new views around every corner. Along the way, you'll get to explore the history and natural beauty of the Superstition Mountains and the Tonto National Forest. Here's our guide to conquering Apache Trail.
2748 South Cupertino Drive, Gilbert, Arizona
The Apache Trail is a 40-mile circular route right through the Superstition Mountains. In 1905, the trail was officially designated as an aid for the construction of the Theodore Roosevelt Dam, with Apache Junction at one end, and Theodore Roosevelt Lake at the other. This trail will wind you through some amazing sights and scenes. You'll find the first half paved and the second half made of dirt roads. This being said, the narrow and rugged route requires attention while driving, and offers endlessly unique views. If you're in the mood for an adventure on the road, buckle up and get started!
Live out history for yourself in Goldfield Ghost Town. Here, you have the chance to tour the authentic gold mine and the town that once boomed before it sadly died out when the mine dried up. A favorite spot in the town is Mammoth Steakhouse and Saloon, known for burgers, beer, and prickly pear margaritas! Really want to amp up your trip? Goldfield offers ziplining, live gunfight reenactments, and a narrow gauge railroad you can ride. Adventure into the mountain via horseback, or join a guided tour of the history of women and their roles in the 1800s. The friendly and informative staff makes you feel as if you really are in a Wild West town, perfect for the curious traveler and families of all ages!
In the 1840s, the Peralta family of Mexico discovered gold near Apache Junction and continuously made trips to bring it back to Mexico. As the story goes, the family was ambushed by Apaches while on a gold expedition, leaving all but one or two family members left for dead. Decades later, Jacob Waltz, aka "the Dutchman," was said to have found the mine, and hid gold in the Superstitions. When he died, he took the location of the mine to his grave. Whether you're curious about the tales of the Lost Dutchman Gold Mine and want to see the mysterious lands for yourself, or simply just want to take in some of the most gorgeous sections of the Superstitious Mountains, Lost Dutchman State Park has you covered. RV or tent camp right in the park, and wake up to killer views of those red cliffs. If you only have the afternoon, spend time hiking and biking through the rugged trails that lead to Tonto State Forest.
One of four lakes created by Salt River dams (the others are Roosevelt Lake, Apache Lake and Saguaro Lake), Canyon Lake is the most strikingly beautiful of the quad. Just 15 miles up the trail from Apache Junction, the lake offers scenic red canyons surrounding bright waters, inviting you to boat, ski, fish, or just take it all in. The marina at Canyon Lake will take care of all of your boating needs, and additionally has a campground for lodging! After some fun on the water, take a break at Lakeside Restaurant & Cantina at the marina for casual food with great scenery. This stop on the Apache gives you a breath of a fresh air in a wide open and beautiful area. Keep your eyes peeled during your visit, and you may even catch sight of a picturesque bighorn sheep perched atop the canyon!
What's now known as Tortilla Flat was originally a simple freight camp, home to a small community for years. Only a small part of the town remains, but what's left is distinctly authentic Old West. Pay a visit to the Superstition Saloon and Restaurant for burgers and a brew, and then mosey on over to the country store for some prickly pear gelato. The town, population six, is Arizona's smallest "community," with a post office as well as a voter's precinct. Although much of the history of Tortilla Flat has been lost to time, tourists all along the Apache Trail find the charming little town warm and inviting for a much-deserved break to stretch their legs. Old West reenactors even make occasional appearances on weekends, weather permitting.
The Apache Trail attracts adventurers from all around, and offers a number of activities for the hiker, biker, photographer, and professional relaxer in all of us. Its rich culture makes the trip that much more meaningful, and at each stop on the drive, there is something new to learn. Far from your average vacation or weekend getaway, Apache Trail may have had its travel challenges way back when, but is now a welcoming slew of fun points around every turn, ready to be discovered.