What to See on Arizona’s Apache Scenic Trail Drive
Take the Apache Trail Scenic Byway for dramatic canyon views, historic stops, beautiful hikes and much more on this popular route that’s easy to access from Phoenix.
Apache Trail/Bernard Gagnon, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Arizona’s Apache Trail Scenic Drive, also known as the Apache Trail Scenic Byway or AZ Route 88, is a 120-mile route through the Superstition Mountains and Tonto National Forest.
Less than an hour from Phoenix, it’s perfect for day trips or weekend getaways. The full scenic drive takes 6–8 hours, depending on stops, and it’s an ideal detour or stop on the way to other Arizona destinations like Sedona, the Grand Canyon, or Tucson.
Recent closures have affected parts of the trail, and in 2024 the unpaved segment from Fish Creek Vista to milepost 227 opened only to high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicles.
Before you leave, check current Apache Trail conditions with the Arizona Department of Transportation.
Keep reading for our favorite stops like Canyon Lake and Tortilla Flat, tips for navigating the winding roads in an RV, and the best hiking trails along the way.
When to Visit the Apache Scenic Trail
The best times to take the Apache Trail Scenic Drive are spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) when temperatures range from 60–80°F, perfect for hiking and photography.
Summer brings extreme heat over 100°F, so prepare with water, sunscreen, and light clothing. Winter may see snow or slick roads, and unpaved sections can close due to rain or flooding.
Check the Tonto National Forest’s Apache Trail road conditions before you depart.
Tips for RVs
From Fish Creek Overlook/Nicholas Hartmann, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The Apache Trail Scenic Drive has strict limits for RVs: vehicles over 40 feet are prohibited, and trailers longer than 22 feet are not recommended. The unpaved section east of Tortilla Flat includes steep grades, tight curves, and minimal guardrails, making it unsuitable for large RVs.
If you’re driving a larger RV, map out accessible sections or alternate routes.
Popular Apache Trail Stops
These stops along the Apache Scenic Byway highlight the best of Arizona: dramatic overlooks at Fish Creek Hill and Canyon Lake, historic sites like Goldfield Ghost Town, and hiking trails ranging from easy family-friendly loops to adventurous hikes through the Superstition Wilderness.
Scenic Overlooks
Fish Creek Hill Viewpoint: Accessible via a short path, this viewpoint has sweeping views of Fish Creek Canyon and the surrounding Superstition Wilderness. Nearby trails require sturdy shoes for loose gravel and steep sections. Use caution near the edges. Parking is limited, and the surrounding roads may not accommodate larger RVs.
Canyon Lake Vista: Stop at this pull-out for informative plaques and panoramic views of the lake's blue waters framed by rugged canyon walls. It is easily accessible and has nearby parking for standard vehicles, but space for RVs may be limited.
Canyon Lake Vista, Smiles1479 CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Historic Sites
Roosevelt Dam: Completed in 1911, this National Historic Landmark plays a vital role in managing Arizona’s water supply. Damming the Salt River created Roosevelt Lake, a popular boating and fishing spot. The overlook is accessible via paved State Route 188.
Goldfield Ghost Town: This restored mining town includes staged gunfights, gold panning, a mine tour, and shops that recreate the Wild West experience. It’s a great stop for families or anyone interested in Arizona’s frontier history.
Goldfield Ghost Town, Marine-69-71 CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Tortilla Flat: Once a stagecoach stop, Tortilla Flat, Arizona is known for its quirky Old West atmosphere, complete with a saloon featuring saddle bar stools, prickly pear lemonade, and small shops. It’s easily accessible and worth visiting for its unique character.
Cruise the Apache Trail Scenic Drive in a Blacksford RV!
Hiking Trails
Boulder Canyon Trail to Dutchman Trail: Like several nearby hikes, this 14-mile round-trip route starts at Canyon Lake. The challenging and rugged terrain rewards adventurous hikers with panoramic views of the Superstition Mountains. For an alternative, take the 5-mile round-trip hike to the Boulder Canyon Viewpoint.
Treasure Loop Trail: Located in Lost Dutchman State Park, this easy 2.4-mile loop features stunning views of the Superstition Mountains. It’s an ideal option for families and beginners looking for a shorter, more relaxed hike. Note: A $10 vehicle fee is required to enter the park.
Hieroglyphic Trail: Take this relatively easy 2.8-mile round trip hike to Hieroglyphic Canyon with ancient petroglyphs and seasonal pools. It’s a route suitable for families and beginners.
Heiroglyphic Trail/Sabine Deviche, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Massacre Falls Trail: This 5.5-mile round trip hike is moderately challenging, with rocky terrain and an elevation gain of about 1,200 feet. The trail leads to seasonal waterfalls and the site of a historic event, combining nature with history.
Public Campgrounds on the Apache Trail
Lost Dutchman State Park
Located at the base of the Superstition Mountains, Lost Dutchman State Park has 135 campsites, 68 with electric and water hookups. The park has well-maintained facilities and direct access to several hiking trails.
Campers arriving before noon on their scheduled check-in day will be charged the park entrance fee. Reservations can be made online or by calling the Arizona State Parks Reservation Desk at 1-877-MY-PARKS.
Note: Construction near the restroom and shower is ongoing from October 2024 to May 2025, which may result in increased noise and temporary closures of some amenities.
Roosevelt Lake Campgrounds
Choose from three campgrounds near the lake. Each has a variety of amenities and easy access to outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and hiking. All sites can be reserved through Recreation.gov.
Cholla Campground is on the south side of Roosevelt Lake and has over 200 campsites for tents and RVs. Amenities include picnic tables, fire rings with grills, shade structures, restrooms with flush toilets and showers, water spigots, a children’s playground, and a fish-cleaning station.
It also has a paved boat launch ramp. Notably, Cholla is one of the largest all-solar-powered campgrounds in the U.S.
Cholla Campground
Windy Hill Campground sits on the north side of the lake and features campsites with lake and mountain views. Its amenities are similar to Cholla: picnic tables, fire rings with grills, shade structures, restrooms with flush toilets and showers, water spigots, and a children's playground. It also has a fish-cleaning station and paved boat launch ramp.
Grapevine Group Campground is at the south end of Roosevelt Lake and is designed for group camping with multiple loops. It has restrooms with flush toilets and showers, picnic tables, fire rings with grills, and water spigots. A playground, sports field, and paved boat launch ramp are also available.
Tortilla Campground
Tortilla Campground operates seasonally, from October–April. Its 77 campsites feature picnic tables, fire rings with cooking grates, and shade structures. Amenities include drinking water, flush toilets, a dump station, and trash service. You’ll find both tent and RV sites, with sewage hookups available.
An America the Beautiful Pass is required for day-use areas, but camping fees are separate. Senior and Access Pass holders receive a 50% discount on camping fees. For reservations, visit Recreation.gov.
Private Campgrounds on the Apache Trail
Mesa/Apache Junction KOA Journey
Mesa/Apache Junction KOA Journey/J. Grant
Website: KOA.com
Map: 1540 South Tomahawk Road, Apache Junction, AZ 85119
This KOA has a range of amenities including electrical hookups, wifi, a heated pool, hot tub, and dog park. Its proximity to the Superstition Mountains gives guests stunning desert views.
Goldfield Ghost Town Campground
Website: Campground - Ghostfield Ghost Town
Map: 4650 N Mammoth Mine Rd, Apache Junction, AZ 85119 (next to Goldfield Ghost Town)
Camping here is a unique experience, next to the historic Goldfield Ghost Town. Choose between dry camping or campsites with full hookups.
Hit the Road to the Apache Scenic Trail Drive
Whether it’s your sole destination or part of a longer road trip, the Apache Scenic Trail has something for everyone: dramatic canyon overlooks, historic sites like Goldfield Ghost Town, and gorgeous hiking trails through the Superstition Wilderness.
Travel comfortably and at your own pace with a new Phoenix RV rental from Blacksford. You can fully explore this scenic byway’s highlights and enjoy the convenience of having your home on the road.
Ready to hit the trail?