How long is Apache Trail?
Usa, north-america
62 km
305 m
extreme
Year-round
Okay, buckle up for the Apache Trail (aka Route 88) in Arizona, a 39-mile blast from Apache Junction to Theodore Roosevelt Lake. We're talking Gila, Maricopa, and Pinal counties, all rolled into one epic drive!
Built way back in 1904 to help construct the Roosevelt Dam, this baby winds its way through the Superstition Mountains and Tonto National Forest, giving you killer views of canyons, crazy rock formations, and classic desert vibes. Think cacti, trees, and a whole lot of stunning desert scenery.
Now, here's the deal: parts of it are currently closed due to landslides and floods (since 2019), especially between Fish Point and Apache Lake Marina. But don't worry, you can still hike from the marina to Roosevelt Dam!
The road itself is a mix of paved and unpaved sections, so most cars can handle it. Just remember, this isn't a highway cruise. We're talking slow and steady (max speed is only 15 mph!) through some seriously rugged mountains.
Word of caution: this ain't for the faint of heart! Some sections have some seriously steep drops and not a lot of safety barriers. Some say the drive up is easier than the return because at least you'll have the mountain at your side on the way up. Keep your eyes on the road. RVs and caravans should probably skip this one, and watch out for flash floods.
Allow about 1.5 to 2 hours to drive it without stopping.
If you love driving, you'll have a blast. Spring is gorgeous with the wildflowers, but summer can be scorching, so make sure your AC is pumping. And yeah, the lakes get crowded. But hey, those views of the mountains and lakes are worth it!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 62 km
- Max Elevation
- 305 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
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