Given our state’s expansive desert landscape and striking panoramic vistas, there are many breathtaking scenic drives in Arizona. True to its name, the Apache Trail Scenic Drive winds through the majestic Superstition Mountains and just might have the best views you’ll ever experience.

Editor’s note: A 5-mile portion of the Apache Trail, between mile markers 222 and 227, is closed due to fallout from the Woodbury Fire in June 2019 and runoff from a storm that September. You cannot complete this trail in its entirety as stated in the article below. ADOT and the U.S. Forest Service continue to monitor roadway conditions and will inform the public of any changes. Visit the ADOT website for the latest information. The west side of Apache Trail is open as far as the Fish Creek Hill Overlook. Roosevelt Lake and the east side of Apache Trail is accessible via AZ-188 from Globe.

Apache Trail Scenic Drive is a 42-mile route that winds through the Superstition Mountains. It provides a front-row seat to several ghost towns, abandoned mines, bridges, lakes, and the Roosevelt Dam.
TripAdvisor/Management
Known as one of Arizona's most terrifying roads, twists and turns abound throughout its entire duration. You'll undoubtedly be white-knuckling the steering wheel. As hard as it is to keep your eyes on the road when such beauty is whizzing by, drive safely and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to stop and take it all in.
TripAdvisor/Management
Stop one: Goldfield Ghost Town. This once-thriving mining community dates back to 1892, when it boomed for five years before fizzling out once the gold supply had been exhausted. Today, it is filled with authentic replica buildings reminiscent of the Old West, making it a popular tourist attraction for those wishing to immerse themselves in this historic era.
TripAdvisor/Paul S
Next up is a visit to one of the best state parks in Arizona, Lost Dutchman State Park. This lovely park is a perfect spot to pull over and get out to stretch your legs or hike one of its many tails to admire the breathtaking panoramic views. There’s also a hidden gold mine here that is said to be haunted by the spirits of those who perished searching for it. Spooky!
TripAdvisor/Stephanie A

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Along this drive, you’ll spot thousands of Saguaros rising up from the desert soil. The view from the road is amazing, but you can also pull over and stop to snap a few photos of the majestic Sonoran guardians.
TripAdvisor/Eric B
In addition to the beautiful desert views, you’ll encounter three different lakes: Apache, Canyon, and Roosevelt. Each one is beautiful in its own right, and the road inches so close to the banks that the water practically laps at your tires. Pack a picnic lunch and pick a spot to enjoy it on the sandy shores, with no distractions for miles in any direction.
TripAdvisor/K S
Last, but certainly not least, you’ll reach the mighty Roosevelt Dam. It took a whopping six years to build and was once the largest dam of its kind in the entire world.
TripAdvisor/Phillipe P
The Roosevelt Bridge was added in 1989. Spanning a vast body of sapphire water, this architectural marvel is a perfect finale for your adventure along the Apache Trail Scenic Drive.
TripAdvisor/Wendy B

For more information about Apache Trail Scenic Drive, check out the U.S. Forest Service website, where you’ll find a map as well as general information, including road closures. Have you ever driven this incredible scenic route in Arizona? If so, what’d you think? What’s your favorite of all the scenic drives in Arizona? Share your thoughts with us!

 

Can’t make it to and from the Apache Trail Scenic Drive in just one day? Visit Booking.com, where you’ll find an array of accommodations.

 

Looking for another scenic drive in Arizona? Check this scenic road trip in Arizona; it’s sure to impress!

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Apache Trail Scenic Drive

Daniella DiRienzo | September 13, 2023

What are the most scenic drives in Arizona?

In addition to the Apache Trail Scenic Drive, there are several scenic drives in Arizona. Here are some of the best scenic drives in Arizona:

  • State Route 89A: Spanning from Sedona to Flagstaff, this drive takes you through the stunning red rock formations of Sedona and up into the pine forests around Flagstaff. The switchbacks and elevation changes offer breathtaking views throughout.
  • Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Drive: Running from Sedona to Flagstaff, this drive is an extension of SR 89A. It takes you through the picturesque Oak Creek Canyon with towering red rock formations and lush vegetation, making it a must-drive for all residents.
  • Saguaro National Park East: Located near Tucson, this loop drive takes you through the heart of Saguaro cactus country, providing excellent opportunities for desert landscape photography.

 

Are there any old wagon trails in Arizona?

There are several old wagon trails in Arizona that hark back to the days of westward expansion and the Old West. Here are a few notable old wagon trails in Arizona:

  • Butterfield Overland Mail Route: This historic trail was part of the Butterfield Overland Mail stagecoach route that operated from 1857 to 1861. It connected St. Louis, Missouri, to San Francisco, California, passing through southern Arizona. The original trail isn't intact, but there are segments and historical markers along the way.
  • Old Spanish Trail: This historic trail was originally a trade route that connected Santa Fe, New Mexico, to California, passing through southern Arizona. Used for trade and travel in the 19th century, it is now recognized as a National Historic Trail.
  • Gila Trail: Tracing the Gila River in southern Arizona, this trail was once used by travelers heading west, and during the westward expansion era, it was a key route for wagon trains and pioneers.

 

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