City of Apache Junction Downtown Marker
City of Apache Junction Downtown Marker
Apache Trail: A Journey Through Arizona's Wild West
Discover Arizona's iconic Apache Trail: a historic scenic drive through the Superstition Mountains, offering ghost towns & desert landscapes.
The Apache Trail, also known as Arizona State Route 88, is a historic and scenic drive that winds through the Superstition Mountains and Tonto National Forest. Originally a footpath used by Native American tribes, it became a stagecoach route in the early 1900s and offers stunning desert landscapes, cliff dwellings, and old mining towns.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Apache Trail
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
151 W Superstition Blvd, Apache Junction, Arizona, 85117, US
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Getting There
Driving
From Apache Junction, take US-60 East and exit at Idaho Road, then travel north to connect with Highway 88, also known as the Apache Trail. Follow Highway 88, which winds through the Superstition Mountains. Be aware that the road becomes unpaved after Tortilla Flat. There is no fee to access AZ 88.
Local tips
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Drive with caution, as parts of the Apache Trail are unpaved, steep, and winding.
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Visit in spring or fall for pleasant temperatures, ideal for hiking and photography.
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Check road conditions before you go, as closures can occur due to weather or rockslides.
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Bring plenty of water, especially during the hotter months, as services are limited along the trail.
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Consider a high-clearance vehicle for the unpaved sections of the trail.
Discover more about Apache Trail
The Apache Trail, a 40-mile journey through Arizona's Superstition Mountains and Tonto National Forest, is more than just a scenic drive; it's a trip back in time. Originally used by the Apache Indians, the trail was developed as a stagecoach route in the early 1900s to transport materials for the construction of the Theodore Roosevelt Dam. Today, it offers visitors a chance to experience the rugged beauty and historical charm of the Old West.The trail begins in Apache Junction and ends at Theodore Roosevelt Dam, winding through switchbacks and sharp turns. Along the way, you'll encounter several points of interest, including the Goldfield Ghost Town, a reconstructed 1890s mining town with tours, gunfights, and a museum. Lost Dutchman State Park offers hiking trails and camping amidst the Superstition Mountains, steeped in the legend of the Lost Dutchman's gold mine. Canyon Lake provides opportunities for boating and steamboat tours, while Tortilla Flat, a historic stagecoach stop with a population of six, offers a glimpse into the past.Driving the Apache Trail requires caution, as portions of the road are unpaved and can be steep and winding. However, the stunning views of the Sonoran Desert, dramatic canyons, and sparkling lakes make it a memorable adventure. Whether you're interested in history, outdoor recreation, or simply soaking in the scenery, the Apache Trail offers an unforgettable Arizona experience.
A brief summary to Apache Trail
Use Apache Trail as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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