Apache Trail Tours and Activities
26 Reviews

Originally built as a copper trade route, the Apache Trail now guides travelers past steep desert mountains, cliff dwellings, lake shores, eroded canyons, and old mining towns. This scenic road winds 120 miles (193 kilometers) through Arizona’s Superstition Mountains, from the outskirts of Phoenix to the vast Theodore Roosevelt Lake.
The Basics
With activities for all types of travelers, the Apache Trail makes for a perfect day trip destination from Phoenix. Most Apache Trail tours last a full day and include vehicle transportation plus hiking, a cruise through Canyon Lake on a vessel like the old-fashioned Dolly Steamboat, and visits to historic sites. Travel along the road’s panoramic Sonoran Desert to find the eerie Tortilla Flat and Goldfield ghost towns, once-bustling mining outposts that are now 19th-century artifacts and attractions; Lost Dutchman State Park, where a legendary gold mine is said to be hidden among the red-rock hills; and the towering Roosevelt Dam. For more outdoor adventure, camp at Canyon Lake and Tonto National Forest or board a jeep for a guided desert tour of the area’s stunning geology, history, and wildlife.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Apache Trail Circle Route takes a full day to complete, although visitors can choose to stay overnight to spend more time hiking, camping, and exploring the desert.
- Take extra caution when driving, as portions of the road are unpaved and the desert’s terrain is rough and includes steep cliffs.
- Wear comfortable shoes and sun protection, and bring plenty of water.
How to Get There
Most guided tours provide transportation to and from hotels in downtown Phoenix. But, if you’re driving, start at Apache Junction, a city roughly 45 minutes from downtown Phoenix by road, where the 80-mile (129-kilometer) Apache Trail Circle Route begins. Then loop past Roosevelt Lake and head south to Globe and Miami, before turning back toward Apache Junction.
When to Get There
November through April is the best time to visit, when the weather is sunny and mild. In springtime, visitors to the Apache Trail can see wildflowers blooming throughout the desert landscape. Traffic is common during summer, when temperatures average above 100°F (38°C).
Exploring Goldfield Ghost Town
In this Old West outpost, try your luck at gold panning, explore historic shops and buildings, tour Mammoth Gold Mine, and peruse the Goldfield Museum. Satisfy your hunger with burgers and cold brews inside the saloon.
Address: Arizona, USA
5 Tours and Activities to Experience Apache Trail
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Small Group or Private Apache Trail Day Tour with Dolly Steamboat from Phoenix
65
Explore the Apache Trail from Phoenix on a full-day tour that takes you into the legendary Sonoran Desert. Visit the ghost town of Goldfield, ride a steamboat on Canyon Lake, stop at the eccentric hamlet of Tortilla Flat and admire views of the Superstition Wilderness from Fish Creek Hill. Get a feel for the Wild West as you learn about the region's history and wildlife from your knowledgeable guide. Includes hotel pickup and drop-off and an expert driver who navigates the rough and winding roads for a stress-free day out. Choose between a small-group or private tour.
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From
$139.00
Price varies by group size
From
$139.00
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More

Apache Trail and Dolly Steamboat Tour
31
Ride the old fashioned Dolly Steamboat through the slot canyon at Canyon Lake and then hit the Apache Trail through the Sonora Desert on this tour from the Phoenix area. After your narrated cruise, visit the small town of Tortilla Flat, taking in views of the rare desert landscape along the way.
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From
$129.00
From
$129.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Learn More

Semi-Custom Apache Trail Day Trip Including Dolly Steamboat and Superstition Mountain
12
While in Arizona, make the most of your trip by carving out time for this day tour of the Apache Trail from Phoenix. Travel down the trail, and stop at Tortilla Flat, the Superstition Mountains, and Goldfield Ghost Town. Hop on a steamboat, and cruise on Canyon Lake, and snap pictures from Canyon Lake Vista. Round-trip transport is included with this tour, so you can enjoy the day without the hassle of driving yourself.
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From
$195.00
Price varies by group size
From
$195.00
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More

Private Apache Trail Day with Dolly Steamboat Tour
Arizona's first historic highway is just a few minutes outside of the city. The Apache Trail is the perfect way to experience the beauty of the Sonoran Desert. Get a chance to try panning for gold in the restored ghost town of Goldfield, marvel at the views of the Superstition Mountains, and take a cruise on scenic Canyon Lake. A pickup directly from your hotel or private residence gets the adventure started, leading you out to the Superstition Mountains along the path that guided Apache travelers, stagecoaches, and mountain men alike. When you get to Canyon Lake, board the famous Dolly Steamboat for a 6-mile narrated nature cruise. Watch for bighorn sheep, bald eagles, and a host of other desert animals, as well as unforgettable views of the towering volcanic cliffs. Next, your guide will take you to the town of Tortilla Flat, a stagecoach stop that holds onto its rich tradition through its architecture and unique decorating sense before heading back to the city.
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From
$284.00
Price varies by group size
From
$284.00
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More

Superstition Mountains Tour
1
Travel to Arizona's "other" scenic wonder, the Superstition Mountains! Learn about the history of the region's Native Americans, the Spanish Conquest, gold mining, and the story of the infamous Lost Dutchman. We'll also be driving along one of Arizona's most famous scenic roads, the historic Apache Trail!
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From
$225.00
From
$225.00
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