I'm thinking about driving the Apache Trail next Monday (3/17/03) - from Phoenix to Roosevelt to Globe, and hear that if it's raining, we shouldn't do it. Do people agree with that?

Assuming the weather is great, what are folks' favorite spots on the loop?

Hello,
We considered the same trip last spring. We were talked out of it because of the off the cliff situations and the fact that the road is very narrow and in not to good a condition.

Do it! Drive the whole thing. {Well, at least a good chunk of it!} I must admit that I drove on the side of the road next to the drop-off and it was a bit nerving at times - so there is a better way to do it (the opposite way).

I noticed that many people who were going the 'correct' way stopped when the road turned to gravel. IMHO, they missed some beautiful scenery. I'd drive the whole thing if I were you. In fact, there were some beautiful waterside picnic places along the way. Next time, I'd pack a lunch. I don't think I'd do the drive in the rain - there are much better things to do in the area if it rains.

A previous poster gave me this information about the drive (Karen, if you're out there, thanks again!):

"One of the most popular things to see, that no one has mentioned to you, is driving The Apache Trail, east of Phoenix, by three desert lakes, Roosevelt, Canyon, Sahuaro and the little spot by the side of the road, Tortilla Flats...definitely worth a few hours drive, if you find you have time."

I printed her directions out and took them with me - they were most helpful.

Happy Trails!
Paul

Yes, Paul, I'm still here!! And, our visitors tell us that The Apache Trail is pretty much at the top of things that we visit while they are here. It is my husband's specialty to tour and I do the Phoenix tour and he always comes out on top!!!! So, definitely do drive the whole road and this time of year should be perfect...green desert and possible wild flowers...just poke along, take pictures and maybe even stop at Tortilla Flats for something to eat.

My husband and I drove the Apache Trail last year in March. We took the advice of someone on this post and drove EAST. Believe me, having been there, it was GOOD advice! The trail starts out with concrete roads, but you do end up driving on a dirt road. The reason you want to drive it from the East is because you have the advantage when you put your brake on and start to slide (yes, even in low gear) that you are next to the mountain and not the cliff portion.

I have been on alot of roads, but I have never been as white knuckled driving as on this one. It's an experience I will never forget and still talk about. I recommend doing it, but not in the rain

Hope you have a great time!

Apache Trail:Canyon Lake,Apache Lake, Roosevelt Lake. Fish Creek Hill coming up has right of way. Along the trail:1. Goldfield(old western town with mine tour) 2.Miners Camp Restaurant, 3.Lost Dutchman State Park, 4.Canyon Lake Boat tour,5. Tortilla Flats(one store stop)& dirt washboard rd. Its 85 & sunny!!

Thanks for the responses, guys! The forecast now is for rain on Monday, but I'll keep my fingers crossed we can do this trek (driving East!!).