One of the most scenic drives in the Phoenix area is along the Apache Trail the drive President Theodore Roosevelt described as a road that “combines the grandeur of the Alps, the glory of the Rockies and the magnificence of the Grand Canyon”.
The Apache Trail from Mesa to Globe offers some of the most spectacular canyon views in the State of Arizona. If you have the opportunity to drive it in the Spring, you’ll have the added bonus of seeing the terrain covered in spring flowers.
The hairpin turns will lead you through Tortilla Flat, a fun little town with a population 6 and a great place to stop for lunch. Continuing on, the pavement eventually ends turning into a well-maintained dirt road and don’t be surprised when you experience a one mile section of road that drops 1,000 feet!
To find the Apache Trail, take US 60 east to Idaho Road. Take Idaho Road north to Highway 88 which you’ll take east to the Apache Trail towards Roosevelt Dam.
Enjoy a full day’s road trip by circling around through Globe and back to the Valley via US 60. About 145 miles round trip.
