Apache Trail Scenic Byway

4.7 (67 reviews)

Local Flavor

Add Review

Directions

Apache Trail Scenic Byway Photos

Apache Trail Scenic Byway - Local Flavor Near Me - Apache Junction, Arizona

+174

More like Apache Trail Scenic Byway

Recommended Reviews - Apache Trail Scenic Byway

Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.

Start your review...

Browse more easily on the app

Reviews With Photos

View of west facing canyon at Fish Creek

Kris L.

Hiking on the now closed AZ 88 portion of Apache trail is a great way to see spectacular canyon geology and social distance. The gravel road closed to vehicles in 2019 due to flooding and landslides but can still be accessed by foot. Park at the viewpoint where the dirt road ends and hike at least 2 miles in where you will drop down into Fish Creek canyon which has mature trees and perennial water. Lovely spot for Fall through Spring.

Fred T.

The Apache Trail. Its a fantastic day trip (lets face it more like 2/3 day) if you are lurking about in Phoenix or Scottsdale. Named after the Apache Tribe who used the trail to travel through the Superstition Mountains, it was also a Stagecoach route back in the day. In the present the Byway (aka Route 88) runs from The Roosevelt Dam and Roosevelt Lake (Think Teddy not Franklin) in the East, to Apache Junction. The vast majority of the Byway is unpaved and quite windey. The Superstition Mountains is the rumored location of the Lost Dutchman's Gold Mine, so you may get lucky. However, its pretty well graded and not too bumpy. Our Audi A4 rental had no issue with it and it was comfortable but slow. Its easier than the old Hana Road on Maui used to be. Its a good idea to have extra water etc. just in case however. We also started our trip at the Eastern entrance our logic (which I admit can be fuzzy at times) was than if the trip took longer to complete or it got dark, we would be heading back towards Phoenix. Better to do the long part of the trip getting there in the daytime than late in the evening / day. If you are really hardcore you can go there and back ont he same path, but it seems like that would get tedious. That's another point. TAKE YOUR TIME. You are not Rallying here. Slow down, its safer for both YOU and me. I saw way too many fools, acting as if they were in a race and it makes it dangerous for everybody. Plus there are tons of places to pull over, take pictures etc. There are no services along the way. People have mentioned a marina and campground about halfway along the trail but we did not visit it.

Apache lake, accessible only from this dirt trail

Yuko H.

Apache trail is not for everyone including myself. I would never come here if not for my trusted friend with excellent driving skill. I don't trust myself for driving here as I know I am a terrible driver. Once you passed the paved road, be prepared to drive slow, turn off the music so you can hear oncoming traffics. Cliff on one side looks very scary, if you are scared of heights, don't look. Look far for beautiful scenery as I did. Apache lake is along this scary trail but only accessible by driving this dirt trail. As scary as trail may be, view is spectacular. I enjoyed the drive from the safety of passenger seat. Be mindful of other drivers, even if you are an excellent driver, other may not. I saw two cars not being so careful and scared me when I spotted these careless drivers.

Elvi T.

The Apache Trail was not scary AT ALL. After reading the reviews on here, i was ready for a once-in-a-lifetime scare of a drive, but that was not the case whatsoever. Sure it was unpaved and the roads got slim, but if you're at least an average driver, this was not scary or super abnormal. Beautiful drive! I would recommend turning around after the bend (in the photos I've posted). There's not much new scenery after that.

Amy M.

Love this area. Nearby trails and the history of this area is striking. It is a great way to soak it all in. Truly inspiring and heartbreaking.

Lindsey D.

The scenery gets five stars and the safety gets one star. I will go into detail, but here it is in a nutshell. Take this road from Apache Junction until you get to Tortilla Flat. Have lunch at Tortilla Flat, enjoy Canyon Lake and then turn around. I repeat. Turn around. IMPORTANT TIPS: If you don't think this warning is serious and you insist on making the entire drive, make sure you have an SUV with 4WD and a driver with a steady hand and a good driving record. The entire drive will easily take you four hours and you will be in major trouble if there is any sort of weather (rain, snow) or it just rained, so make sure you travel in good weather conditions. Check your brakes and make sure your car is in good working condition before you leave. You won't have phone service and there isn't any civilization to save you if you get stranded or in an accident. DIRECTIONS. Coming from Phoenix/Scottsdale/Tempe, take US 60 East to Idaho Road and then follow the signs to Apache Trail. Turn right when you get to the fork in the road along US 88. Enjoy the drive, but don't be an accidental daredevil like myself and take the dirt road. Be warned that if you do insist on taking the entire trail, including the dirt road, once you get to Roosevelt Lake, you'll have the option to go left or right. If you go left, you will end up on the Bee Line just outside of Payson and you'll have a 79 mile drive back to Phoenix. Apache Junction to Tortilla Flat Up until we reached Tortilla Flat, it was a beautiful drive. There were canyons, huge rock formations and mossy mountains. Along the road we stopped at Goldfield Ghost Town, Canyon Lake and Tortilla Flat. There are also several areas to park your car and walk around, including Lost Dutchman State Park which is only worth driving into if you'd like to do a little hike and have a picnic. Goldfield Ghost Town is cheesy and touristy but it's an authentic ghost town and the remains of a mining town from the turn of the Century. They also offer horseback rides, mining tours and train rides. Fish Creek Hill Don't take the dirt road to Fish Creek Hill unless you are ok with putting your life in danger. We didn't take the warnings seriously because the warnings were practically non-existent. I am completely shocked that they don't have warning signs or even a park ranger that verbally goes over the dangers you are about to undertake if you proceed to Fish Creek Hill. This dirt road is a one-lane, steep and very dangerous road that goes straight down. You only have enough room for one car with a mountain on one side and a steep cliff that drops several hundred feet on the other side. There are several switch backs and you can only pray that someone isn't coming around the corner going the other way when you make the turn. One wrong turn of your wheel, an issue with your brakes or skid of your tires (and remember it's a loose dirt road) and you're over the cliff without a prayer to save you. This continues for 22 miles. 22 miles! It gets very slightly better every now and then, but the initial steep road down to the base isn't worth the beauty of the drive. It's suicidal to do this drive and it just doesn't seem to end. Just when you think you're in the clear, it continues and it took us nearly three hours to get through. Three hours of complete fear. It's so dangerous that you can't even really take in the beauty because you're too focused on not making a wrong move. If you want to see the other side of the Apache Trail, instead of taking the dirt road of Fish Creek Hill, save the other side for another day and take the Bee Line to US 80 towards Roosevelt Dam. There isn't much but the dam and Roosevelt Lake is worth seeing (there is also a restaurant overlooking the Lake). Beauty Highlights: - Most of the Fish Creek Hill road is along a lake so it's a watery drive. - There are a ton of peaks and Valleys with several cliffs, beautiful rock formations and a cave to explore. - It really captures the beauty of Arizona - You get to see how much water Arizona actually has.

Christine A.

Honestly, it's quite possibly THE most beautiful highway I've ever driven. We've made the trek through the sections that are just dirt road, and now, lacking a vehicle that could make that adventure we've just made the journey between Apache Junction, heading past Goldfield, Superstition, Weaver's Needle, Canyon Lake, and turning around in Tortilla Flat, after stopping for drinks, ice cream, bathroom breaks, and the occasional burger that is. It's gorgeous country, speckled with saguaro cacti and jagged rocks, with several fascinating anomalies. For starters, the sign for the Canyon Lake vista point is riddled with bullet holes, just past Tortilla Flat (depending on the season) a river flows over the road (observe: http://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=-0IiMAZI2SsQ7VmyzJjokQ&select=6qg_ud6HY60tK5Y_3q_pRg), and in two different places you can either find prickly pear ice cream (Tortilla Flat) or pickly pear fudge (Goldfield). Wander the trail yourself and see what else you might discover. Supposedly Weaver's Needle is haunted and is suspected of being the site of the Lost Dutchman's claim.

Jessica S.

This was the best! I almost didn't make this trip because of all the terrible reviews of how treacherous the path is. "It's not for the faint of heart," they said. "Terrifying drops." Ok, ok, yes it did have a few scary place, yes the road becomes unpaved and one way, but with some careful driving in a few places, this byway is NOT to be missed. If it was raining or bad weather, I probably wouldn't go too far past Tortilla Flat. In fact, if it's raining I bet you couldn't because even when I was there the road was a tidbit flooded and though I ignored the signs that said do not cross, I bet if it was raining you wouldn't even be able to anyway. On a sunny day in March I made the trek in an economy rental car! It was GORGEOUS!!! The Apache Trail was a stagecoach trail that ran through the Superstition Mountains. It was named the Apache Trail after the Apache Indians who originally used this trail to move through the Superstition Mountains. The Trail winds steeply through 40 miles of rugged desert mountains, past deep reservoir lakes like Canyon Lake and Apache Lake. The narrow, winding road is unpaved from just east of the town of Tortilla Flat to Roosevelt Dam; there are steep cliff drops and little in the way of safety barriers. The trail requires caution when driving. All the more reason to travel it, right? I've driven through snowy mountains, up Pike's Peak, through flooded bridges, over terraces, gotten stuck in the mud..oh the adventures of driving. If you can handle that kind of stuff, you can handle the Apache Trail. There are plenty of places to pull off along the route and there was very little traffic when I was en route. Make sure to fill up that gas tank! I'll admit, it took me at least 4 hours to get to Globe but I stopped quite a few times. My first stop was in Apache Junction at this cutesy little visitors center. It was a nice way to get my feet wet. Walk around, look at some old buildings. I was there pretty early so the building was still closed but it was beautiful and informative. I drove for a while, just making quick stops along the road and made another longer stop at Tortilla Pass for a bathroom break and Prickly Pear Gelato. Who cares if it was 10 a.m. There is also a little store there and a restaurant so if you have the time, I'd stop in for a bite to eat. The restaurant is the only place that has a restroom so you might have to stop in anyway. I was kind of in a hurry to get to Globe for work. You know you're getting closer to the end when you see Roosevelt's Dam. Theodore Roosevelt Dam is a dam on the Salt River. It is 357 feet high and forms Theodore Roosevelt Lake. The dam is named after then-President Theodore Roosevelt. Serving mainly for irrigation water supply and flood control, the dam also has a hydroelectric generating capacity of 36 megawatts. Prior to completion of the bridge in October 1990, traffic drove over the top of the dam. The bridge itself earned rare distinction when the bridge was named one of the top 12 bridges in the nation in November 1995. The American Consulting Engineers Council cited the bridge for overall design, size, eye-appeal and design challenge. Other bridges cited were the Golden Gate Bridge and Brooklyn Bridge. After the bridge, you have about 10 or so minutes before hitting Globe. Again, so worth it. I've never seen this type of landscape, where cacti litter the hills like the trees of the Black Hills. There wasn't any animal sitings, but still, very very beautiful. I would do it again and again. If I lived in Phoenix, this would be a nice, free, getaway. I'd probably pack up the family, drive the Tortilla Pass for food and ice cream and make my way back. I did notice that near Roosevelt Dam there was some boating activity as well. Don't be afraid, experience!!

Joe R.

Crossing the Superstition Mountains has always been a perilous journey. Bravely, I made the daring drive through the ancient caldera, past a chain of deep reservoirs, down the precipitous Fish Creek Hill, and eventually to historic Theodore Roosevelt Dam. To build the dam, engineers in the first decade of the 20th Century constructed the Apache Trail (Arizona Highway 88). Today, the narrow road remains unpaved for 20 miles, from just east of Tortilla Flat to Roosevelt Dam. The single-lane road clutched the steep wall of Fish Creek Canyon as it dropped 900 feet in just one mile. It reminded me of those terrifying third-world roads cut out of a cliff face, and driven by maniacal bus drivers carrying their equally insane passengers. At the bottom of the hill, a small wooden bridge crossed Fish Creek, and a short rocky trail led to a gaping shallow cave. The coarse dirt road returned to smooth pavement at Roosevelt Dam, once the largest stone masonry dam in the world. I stopped at vista points on both sides of the dam to fully appreciate this civil engineering marvel. Downstream, I realized the size of the impressive structure, and could see the power plant and spillway. Upstream, I observed some of the original stone masonry, and admired the elegant Roosevelt Lake Bridge, the longest two-lane, single-span, steel-arch bridge in North America. Along the Apache Trail, I experienced dazzling volcanic rock formations, shimmering blue-green lakes, dizzying white-knuckle driving, and amazing feats of engineering achievement. At the end of the day, I felt like an intrepid adventurer, after surviving my daring drive across the Superstition Mountains.

Robyn N.

What an amazing drive this is! I drive east from home on Main St to State Rte 88 and in about 30 minutes I'm away from the city and suburbs and into the most beautiful and amazing scenery around. The first part of the drive is fairly easy on paved roads - there are a couple stops for scenic views, the first to view Weaver's needle and the second a great view of Canyon Lake. I do this part of the drive at least once a month, I have a great need to see "big" water. Drive a little further and you end up at Tortilla Flat - there's a restaurant/bar, an ice cream store and a souvenir shop. If you do this on the weekends in the winter expect major crowds here. Past Tortilla Flat the road is still paved for a more miles and then it gets good. The unpaved road is graded and can be an uncomfortable drive and I'm sure it's not good for my car, but I just can't resist. Keep driving the curvy road and be careful, in many places it's just one lane and a lot of the other drivers seem to want to speed on by. The scenery is magnificent though and worth every mile. Soon you'll hit Apache Lake - and if you drive down to the marina? there is a building with a restaurant (looks kinda dumpy), a small store and they have boat rentals! Something I will have to do one summer. Keep driving and the water continues on your left until you hit Roosevelt Dam. If you're not expecting it, it's a very large dam and just seems to pop out of nowhere. But for me the best part is just 'round the bend when you see the suspension bridge and Roosevelt Lake, HUGE water! I'm from Chicago and lived near Lake Michigan, and as much as I love the mountains, I really do miss seeing water. It's almost breathtaking once you get this far. Once you've reached the end, for me the best way is to head toward Globe and get on 60W to head back to the Valley. I've gone the other way through Payson and it's a much longer ride (or so it seems) Be sure you have a full tank of gas before you start this trip, there are no gas stations and it's several miles past Roosevelt Lake before you see one.

Sherly W.

My wonderful husband took me on a grand tour of Apache Lake! Just when you think you've seen all the beauty that Arizona has to offer, taking a nice off-road drive through this area really opens your eyes. I just cannot get enough of the beauty of the mountains, the striations of the rocks and its vibrant colors. There are so many mysteries that we have yet to uncover and I definitely want to adventure more to see what we may find!

See all

Stephanie J.

171

13 years ago

Incredible. Some of these views rival the Grand Canyon. Being a local, I sometimes forget how pretty the desert can be. I'd drive the trail from Apache Junction to Globe and then take US 60 from Globe to return to the Valley. That way, the canyon dropoffs are to your left. Your cell phone will probably not work much past Canyon Lake/Tortilla Flats. The road's really windy, but follow the posted speed limits and you'll be fine. If you get easily carsick, this probably isn't a great drive for you. There's not much in the way of services, so gas up ahead of time (and possibly pack snacks). The road's unpaved for about 20 mi after Tortilla Flats. I'd recommend driving in an SUV (or something similar with four-wheel drive) or just be prepared for a super bumpy ride. If you have doubts about your car making it on the unpaved road, I'd turn around at Canyon Lake or Tortilla Flats. These views are worth the white knuckle driving! Bring patience and a good camera! read more

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Mary F.

167

12 years ago

We drove from the beginning of the park to Tortilla Flats. We decided not to go any further because of the reviews about the road being not suitable for sedans. The road to Tortilla Flats was an easy ride, just keep your eyes on the road, steep cliffs on the side of the road, you can see some rusty cars down at the bottom that have crashed down. read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Phil T.

11 years ago

My wife and I drove the Apache trail this weekend. We loved every minute of it. Got to break in the new Jeep on some of the trails along the way. First stop at the ghost town was really enjoyable. Lunch at tortilla flats was nice. The scenery is incredible. I recommend a full day to stop frequently and be sure to visit all three lakes along the way. Roosevelt lake at sunset was the perfect way to finish. read more

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Jennifer S.

Elite 18

1125

4192

11 years ago

Absolutely amazing with a side of stunning views! I hadn't been on the Apache Trail in 15 years, so decided to take the hubby on a little daytrip excursion. We picked an absolutely beautiful day and headed up on the 202 to explore. I recommend only taking the trail through the paved roads...who needs to go further when the views are so amazing on the paved road?!? We stopped several times to walk and take photos...why not? read more

Helpful 4

Thanks 0

Love this 3

Oh no 0

Marissa P.

Elite 15

237

577

16 years ago

Whether you are a local or a tourist you have to drive the Apache Trail at least once! I think I've taken every friend or family member that ever came to visit me in Phoenix through it. It's a day drive you want to plan for, pack a picnic lunch to enjoy along the way as there are limit food service options. You can first pick up the trail (State Route #88) near Apache Junction heading straight for Goldfield Mining Camp. You drive pass the camp, headed toward Apache Lake, Saguaro Lake & Tortilla Flats. I recommend taking time to picnic near one of the lakes. There is a little diner near on Apache Lake, the food is decent and affordable but nothing to rave about. You also have an option to grab a burger at the Saloon in Tortilla Flats but the really enjoyable experience is to enjoy the fabulous view and being in the outdoors for a picnic! The entire drive is gorgeous!!! Yes, as previous yelpers have noted, the road is windy, it gets steep and several miles are unpaved. The key to this drive is to know this will be a day trip for you and just take your time and enjoy the desert landscape. If you are Phoenix based living in the cemented desert it's easy to forget how beautiful Arizona can be. The Apache Trail will remind you how gorgeous the desert can be. There are several options to get off the road and stop for pictures or just to enjoy the view. At the end of the route you get to stop at Tonto National Monument which features Indian Cliff Dwellings. Now there are lots of these across Arizona. However, very few of them are stable enough for you average person to be allow to climb up to them. It will take you roughly twenty minutes to climb up to the ruins. Bring water, the hike isn't that strenuous but it's gets hot up there and by the time you get there it will be afternoon. There is a nominal entrance fee, last time I went is was only $4 per person and there is a Park Ranger at the top to answer any questions. I do recommend driving back using the US-30 through Globe. No one should go back the way they came as it will be dark and scary on the way back. You can get back to downtown Phoenix in less than two hours via the freeway! In one day you get to rive through the Superstition Mountains, see Apache Lake, Roosevelt Lake, Roosevelt Dam, Tortilla Flats, Tonto National Forest & Indian Ruins. This is in my top five of things to do in AZ! read more

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 2

Oh no 0

Saba B.

Elite 19

388

462

14 years ago

This byway is absolutely scenic, but the park service should provide warning signs for those entering Fish Creek Hill past Tortilla Flat en route to Apache Lake that this one-lane, steep, washboard-laden, guard rail-less dirt road is almost impassable when pulling a boat. A simple sign with a red skull embossed over truck-boat combo on a steep incline would be sufficient and cost effective. After all, the rescues along this stretch must cost the state a pretty penny. Once past Canyon Lake, there is no place to turn around. Period. Not for the faint of heart or iffy of brake. read more

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Nicole F.

149

12 years ago

This was one of those AMAZING experiences that as you are living it you know you will talk about it for a long time. We started on the trail at apache junction at about noon. We got back on the freeway at 5:15. We didn't stop at any of the tourist stops except to hit the bathroom and to grab a bag of chips and a soda- we did stop at all the vistas and look outs. We had a blast looking at the scenery and stopped at many of the turnouts to climb and snap photos. The drive down to Fish Creek was INSANE. absolutely crazy. The guard rails looked liked cardboard and staples. We laughed like crazy until we had to go back up and we were on the outside. We have a big SUV and we had to scoot over a few time a for big SUVs and trucks. We did it. When you drive out and start on the paved road with the switch backs you wonder how the people driving back out are driving so fast. You find out quick that once you navigate fish creek you can do just about anything. We made it to Apache Lake and stopped by the store for sodas and chips before heading back to Chandler. We had a blast. The scenery was breathtaking- something to cherish. DO THIS. IT'S worth it. read more

Helpful 2

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Stacy M.

13 years ago

This was a great drive and we recommend to not stop at the tortilla flat, keep driving to see beautiful natural mountains. What a great way to get away! read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Ed D.

2904

502

1350

14 years ago

Driven this road a thousand times on fishing and backpacking trips. No time spent in Az is complete without making at least one trip up or down Fish Creek Hill. read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 2

Oh no 0

Alea H.

Elite 15

356

12 years ago

We just did this drive. The views are absolutely spectacular. There is probably nowhere else on the planet quite like it. If you love mountains and saguaros, this drive is for you. It was not as scary as the other reviews make it seem if you take the curves slowly and make sure to let your husband know when you want him to slow down a bit. :) But, the last half of it is not paved. It is very dusty, very bumpy, very curvy, and very far. Plan to take about 3-4 hours one way, and I would recommend a practical vehicle such as an SUV. And cell service is pretty nonexistent. We has planned on doing the drive then doing it back the way we came, but after getting to the dam, we decided we couldn't do it again the other way so we are going up to Payson to get back to scottsdale. It is longer in miles but significantly faster, I'm certain. I think you should do this drive exactly one time. No more, no less. read more

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Lisa M.

Elite 12

116

14 years ago

I tried to prepare myself for the ride on the Apache Trail by reading reviews from several websites but no matter how much you think you're prepared you will be surprised by this road. I have to say this road is NOT for the faint of heart. It is a very beautiful drive but also can be terrifying. We rented a mid size SUV and now wished we would have just got a full size sedan. A car can make it just fine. Like other reviews have stated the road is paved until just after Tortilla Flat. Then dirt road for the next twenty or so miles. Some spots are smoother than others but you will really only be able to drive between 10 - 20 mph and it is shaky the whole way. The scenery is second to none however. I have lived in Phoenix over 25 years and cannot believe I have never been on this road. It is so beautiful You will drive up high cliffs and down to lake level. You will pass by Canyon, Apache and Roosevelt Lakes. The various colors of the desert are simply gorgeous. The advice I can give most is make sure your car is in GOOD WORKING ORDER. You DO NOT want to break down on this road. There are desolate stretches where you do not see other people or cars for miles. You feel like you are the last person on earth. Take the ride, it's a fantastic Wild West adventure. read more

Apache Trail Scenic Byway - Along the trail. - Local Flavor Near Me - Apache Junction, Arizona

Apache Trail Scenic Byway - One lane bridge. - Local Flavor Near Me - Apache Junction, Arizona

Apache Trail Scenic Byway - Trail. - Local Flavor Near Me - Apache Junction, Arizona

Apache Trail Scenic Byway - Canyon Lake sign. - Local Flavor Near Me - Apache Junction, Arizona

Apache Trail Scenic Byway - Lake - Local Flavor Near Me - Apache Junction, Arizona

Apache Trail Scenic Byway - You are smack dab in the middle of the mountains. - Local Flavor Near Me - Apache Junction, Arizona

Apache Trail Scenic Byway - Roosevelt Bridge at the end of the trail. - Local Flavor Near Me - Apache Junction, Arizona

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Lisa T.

10 years ago

My husband and I drove the Apache Trail this afternoon. I must admit I had no idea what we are in for! After seeing the Grand Canyon yesterday I thought that nothing could impress me, but the scenery along this trail was incredible. We live in NY, and I'm not a fan of western movies, so I had no idea that such roadways exist. That we decided to do this drive in our rental, convertible VW Bug still has me laughing at our stupidity! We stopped at all of the tourist destinations at the beginning of the trail and had lunch on the water at Canyon Lake. All enjoyable. I then, unknowingly, started on the most terrifying ride of my life. If you have any anxiety issues what-so-ever, load up on Xanax or have several drinks before getting into the passenger seat (trust me, you will thank me for this advice). By the time we hit the unpaved section of the road I was begging my husband to slow down and look at the road. He pulled over, got out of the car and said you **** drive. GLADLY I thought!!! Nope, not much better, I was terrified and doing about 5 mph. By the time we made it to the dam we were no longer speaking to each other!!! That said, I'm so glad we did it! Can't imagine missing that scenery. Pictures can't capture it. I'd love to camp near one of the lakes. read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Diane R.

15 years ago

Good day trip. Canyon Lake for quick dip, then Tortilla Flat for lunch.

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Larry G.

8 years ago

Numerous times I have thought that there should be an Apache Trail race (like Pike's Peak). Think of the revenue this would bring in to local businesses! Back in the 70's I would drive from Apache Junction to Roosevelt Lake in my Austin Healey in less than an hour many times trying to set personal records. Of course, there was no traffic back in those days. But all the time I was thinking there should be an official race course there at some point. I had a great time driving AZ roads in the Healey and my old Ford truck for 10 years. Loved the old Mining Camp Restaurant - great steaks! read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Jim K.

8 years ago

Just drove this route today, it was a beautiful day very Scenic views. Just pay attention and you will be fine. The road is a bit of a washboard. But well worth the drive. Don't forget to bring your camera and some water. read more

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Karen H.

11 years ago

Gorgeous drive! We were so glad we didn't listen to the reviews about not taking the dirt section of the road. If you have driven canyon roads or dirt roads, you will not find the road fearful or uncomfortable. The road may be white-knuckled for someone who hasn't had a lot of experience driving in canyons. There are a few places in the road that are definitely one-car, but this does not happen very much. The other cars were very courteous and we only had to pull to the side 2 or 3 times to let a car by our entire drive. Most of the road is easily passable for 2 cars. There is one narrow section with a steep drop-off, but this area did have guard rails and did not last long. Drive from Apache Junction to Roosevelt Dam and you will drive on the inside of the road away from the drop-offs. Additionally, you do not need a 4 wheel drive or high-clearance vehicle. We found the road to be a nicely graded dirt road (which of course will have some washboard sections) and there were very few ruts to avoid. We have driven the road to Hana in Maui, up Pike's Peak in Colorado and through the countryside in England. All of these are far more harrowing than the Apache Trail. read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

John D.

12 years ago

My family is in town on an extended holiday so the other day, we went up the mountains to see the famous Apache Trail and Tortilla Flats. I'd been waiting for my daughter to drive in with her 4x4 so we could easily trek the mountain roads. They are curvy and slow moving so plan a whole day for this beautiful outing. The mountains, desert lakes and cacti were all a sight to see. If you like hiking, paddle boarding, boating or other sports, you'll find it here. We loved the saloon restaurant at Tortilla Flats and the live band that was singing outside. The only bummer was the ice cream place didn't offer samples and we didn't like the one we ended up with. I don't see how 2 samples would hurt them, and it would let us choose one we liked. All in all though it was a great drive and nice stop. We turned around about 5 miles on the other side of Tortilla Flats, after the road turned to dirt. It was a bit too bumpy and was getting dark. read more

Apache Trail Scenic Byway - The lake had boats, fishing, a rec area and even some paddle boarders. - Local Flavor Near Me - Apache Junction, Arizona

Apache Trail Scenic Byway - Stop at Tortilla Flats for some good food and music. - Local Flavor Near Me - Apache Junction, Arizona

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Robert L.

122

11 years ago

I left Phoenix for Oklahoma City in 2011 because of the economic crisis, and returned to visit in November of 2014. Before going, I knew I was going to have to make time for the Apache Trail. In Oklahoma I'd been so used to the sweeping vistas of... horizon. So yeah, I needed to escape from civilization and engage in something profound, philosophical and spiritual. There's something about the elegant mix of a winding, rough road weaving around hills and mountains amidst steep valleys and desert forest that really sticks to your soul. I usually feel I'm one to rush through life, but this place is quite humbling to me, hearing nothing but Sonoran winds and seeing a different scene at every bend; it stops me from being somewhere and makes me just be. The drive can be a bit tense in parts, but it's otherwise a majestic example of the pageantry of nature, and is well worth the time and low speed limits. There are few places I've been that I find utterly serene, but this is one of them, and there are fortunately plenty of spots to pull over to take in the view and take your time to enjoy this experience. read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Joh D.

12 years ago

Just a short note here. Rode the Apache trail on my Harley after my wife saw it mentioned in a guide book. She got off the bike when the blacktop disappeared into dirt and rode our friends 4x4. Absolutely amazing ride (might be better advised on a dirt bike though) Tore out all my electrics to the back of the bike. No matter would do it again in a heartbeat. Fantastic views, so easy to turn back time out there. Just do it, you won't regret and you will always remember. read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

B J.

10 years ago

Again, another fun surprise, with some updates. The previous reviews did describe a lot of what happens on this trail. The mountain views are absolutely breath-taking. However, what IS MISSING from the reviews is the time needed. We took advantage of the speediest drive in the safest way possible and visit each of the sites: Apache Junction, Goldfield Mining Town, views of the Superstition Mountains, Canyon Lake, Tortilla Flat, Tonto National Park, Apache Lake, Roosevelt Dam and the long drive back to Phoenix. Other review say you can make the drive anywhere from 2-7hrs. Well, we just finished the trail in a Ford Escape 4cylinder SUV and it took 6.5 hrs. Our stops equaled about 1hr and the rest was driving time. Most reviews mention the 'rough roads' but failed to fully prepare us with the details of these rough roads. The details you should know about are the DIRT ROAD from mile marker 221-249... 28miles of graded dirt roads. Most of the road had very rough tracks from some sort of heavy equipment and made travelling VERY SLOW. At times, our top speed was 10mph. With the combination of the dirt road, slow speed, heavy road vibration, occasional lane narrowing to fit only one car at a time, and the magnificent view, plan on driving only 10-15mph; any faster is a death warrant. Once you get to Roosevelt Dam, you'll be out of interesting sights to see but the speed limit then goes to 60mph read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Anna R.

Elite 25

383

298

10 years ago

Just returned from a lovely day traveling the Apache Trail. We had gone last winter, but only went as far as Canyon Lake due to a late start so we made sure to allow more time today. After Tortilla Flat the road becomes dirt. Warning: as previous reviewers have stated, this drive is not for the faint of heart. It is long, steep, and intense. But it is gorgeous. I grew up driving/riding mountain roads and it was still one of the scariest roads I've ever been on. The views and scenery are unlike anything I've ever seen. After the drop to fish creek (the best part) it does seem to take forever to get to Roosevelt Lake. Still gorgeous though. We did the full circle and from Apache Junction back to Mesa took us 5 hours, with only a couple stops. Not something I would do very often but that's what makes it so special! If you're up for an adventure then do not miss this beautiful trail! Be smart and careful and you will enjoy it. read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Vickie G.

14 years ago

So much history and things to see. I love this area of the United States...going back...soon

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Bob R.

13 years ago

I drove the Apache Trail in a chevy aveo. For the most part, kept it in 1st gear going 5 to 10 mph. It's bumpy but take your time, there's lots to see. Not an area for anyone looking for a quick site seeing trip. All the lakes have something to offer. I even drove into a camp site area on Apache Lake and was able to drive onto a little peninsula with the lake all around us. Great picture taking and a memory to say you've done it. Can't imagine how they got some of these houseboats onto the lake. Anytime you drive out of town, bring food, water and make sure the car is mechanical sound. If you break down you won't be able to call for help but eventually someone will drive by. It will be a very slow rescue. July 5th was a warm day still enjoyable. Your car will get very dusty. I had two dogs that had a good time too. Enjoy! read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Neil A.

14 years ago

I read the reviews after reading about this route in the holiday books and mags. There was a video 2 guys had filmed and I thought we would enjoy the adventure. We drove from Scottsdale and visited the museum at Apache Junction right at the start off the trail. I would recommend everyone pays their $4 and gets a feel of the area and some very knowledgeable information from the staff, loved it. The road was spectacular and the views were breathtaking. We stopped at Tortilla Flats for a light lunch where the saloon was interesting especially the saddle seats. Carrying on we some lost the paved road and hit dirt which was like riding on the beach with the tide just gone out, bumpy but fun. It got wider and narrower as we progressed and apart from a very large drop on our right side the journey went smoothly. We met and passed several cars without problem and everyone was very courteous and just as I thought everything was going great a SUV with a boat on a very large trailer came the other way on what had become a narrow part of the road thankfully with the drop on his side. He had just turned the bend when we met and I moved right in close to the rock face and he squeezed by. As he inched through it looked as though the end of the trailer would hit the front of the car. There was no other alternative but to carry on as I couldn't reverse anywhere and the SUV certainly couldn't. I still don't know how he missed us but thankfully he did and we carried on along the trail. The views are to die for and shouldn't be missed. I can only described it as driving round my rural Norfolk lanes in the UK but with hundreds of foot drop a tyre width away. Great fun but if you are faint hearted stay away but you will miss those wonderful views. Two things you will need when you have finished are 1) a car wash as it will be covered in dust and 2) a change of underwear. Have a great trip!! read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Teri M.

13 years ago

Fun drive. Go on a weekday off season so you can enjoy driving those curves. Be careful when you go off road. Google the videos first. It is just as narrow and drop off as it looks. The off road part makes Hwy 1 look like a drive through the mall. read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Andrew J.

11 years ago

As long as you understand that you are entering a one lane canyon road this is a great drive. I went through on a tip from a friend leaving Apache towards Canyon. I was in a 99 Expedition but I saw a lot of smaller cars making it just fine because the road is well maintained. I even managed a bus passing the other direction in one of the shady areas. If you enter with screaming women, and children, turn around it doesn't get any better for the 22 miles. I wouldn't go in there outside of 9am to 5pm because of the sun. It took about an hour to go safely from Apache to Tortilla, just remember to stop and look around the wide outs if you don't have a sober navigator (reference to the bring Xanex and diapers guy). read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Back

Page 2 of 2