Apache Trail Historic Auto Tour

The Apache Trail is a scenic byway that is notable as one of the first highways in Arizona, and one of the first scenic auto tour routes in the world. It was first used by tourists in cars in 1906. The Apache Trail was established with that name in 1915.

Today the Apache Trail is marked as a loop tour, including the original Apache Trail (highway AZ 88), part of AZ 188, and the section of US 60 between Globe and Apache Junction originally called the Apache Trail Bypass, and later the Old West Highway.

The entire loop drive passes through spectacular scenery in the Superstition Mountains, Roosevelt Lake, and Queen Creek Canyon. It crosses or passes near a number of notable bridges and tunnels, ranging from historic to modern, some endangered. Most of the bridges on AZ 88 are one-lane. This tour offers a lot for the bridgehunter. The round trip can be done in one very full day.

A 22-mile section of AZ 88 is unpaved and very narrow, with sharp curves, steep grades, and no guard rails, and is only recommended for cars (2WD OK), pickups, and SUVs. In particular, RVs and trailers are not advised. There is no gasoline available on AZ 88 between Apache Junction and Roosevelt Dam.

For more information, including a tour map, see the following links:

http://apachetrailarizona.com/ - Apache Trail official web site, with maps

https://www.facebook.com/ApacheTrailHistory - Lots of photos

http://www.amwest-travel.com/awt_apachetrail.html

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apache_Trail