Every web site describing the trail recommends against driving a large vehicle, such as a motor home, because of the steep, twisting, unpaved road with sharp drop-offs into deep canyons. However, such warnings should be unnecessary, as only a true nutcase would attempt it. Here's what one site has to say about the Apache Trail:
"Named after the Apache Indians who once used the route, the Apache Trail, or AZ 88 as it is officially known, links Apache Junction at the edge of the Greater Phoenix area with Theodore Roosevelt Lake, through the Superstition Mountains and the Tonto National Forest; 40 miles of steep, winding and mostly unpaved road past magnificent scenery of twisted igneous mountains with dense forests of saguaro and ferocactus, and several deep blue lakes. Past the lakes, the original route continues in more traditional fashion to the former copper mining town of Globe (via Hwy 188), but it is the western half which is the most scenic and well-known, however caution is required when driving and it is not recommended for large RVs or caravans; the largest RV rental company in the US (Cruise America) does not allow their vehicles do be taken on this route."
When I first drove the trail in 2006, it was part of a large loop that took the entire day. Some of the time was spent at various stops and overlooks, but it did not allow much time for hiking or exploring side roads. By staying here a month, I plan to fully explore all I can, although I have to admit I am no longer able to do some of the more strenuous hikes.
Here is a map of the trail that shows some of the popular stops, such as the "ghost town" of Goldfield.
Driving the trail on a beautiful Sunday in March, one has to expect lots of traffic. This is a VERY popular activity, especially for people on motorcycles (who only drive the paved part). Accordingly, I did not visit Goldfield, the Superstition Mountain Museum or the restaurant at Tortilla Flat, all of which would be too crowded for my taste. Instead, I'll come back to them some time during the week, when crowds should be much smaller. Also, I only went about half way this time, allowing for plenty of stops and a little hiking.
The geology along the trail is simply incredible, with colorful formations and spectacular canyons. At this time of year, wildflowers add to the beauty always present in the desert for me.
The Phoenix area gets much of its water supply from a series of four reservoirs in the Salt river, three of which are accessed via the Apache Trail. Canyon Lake is the smallest, but is large enough to attract lots of boaters and fishermen.
The lakes also attract migrating waterfowl, such as this Ruddy Duck.
Near the end of the paved section, the "town" of Tortilla Flat (six residents) is home to a popular saloon/restaurant/museum and general party place. This is where the motorcycle riders stop for lunch, then head back toward Apache Junction and points beyond. Forget the Lost Dutchman Mine, this is the real modern-day gold mine in the Superstitions.
This is also where Tortilla Creek passes over the paved road, giving everyone a chance to ford the stream. I've never seen a motorcycle cross it.
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