Getting Oriented
The Apache Trail leaves the eastern edge of greater Phoenix at Apache Junction and runs northeast across Tonto National Forest's Mesa Ranger District. The paved section to Tortilla Flat is a popular day trip out of the valley; the dirt section beyond is the part that draws overlanders. The route ends at SR-188 next to Theodore Roosevelt Dam, where pavement resumes and most drivers either return the way they came or loop south through Globe.
Trail Overview
Forty miles point-to-point. The first 18 miles are paved two-lane through Goldfield and Tortilla Flat with stops at Canyon Lake and the Lost Dutchman pull-offs. Pavement ends at Tortilla Flat. The next 22 miles drop into Fish Creek Canyon over a series of one-lane switchbacks with exposed cliff edges, then trace Apache Lake's southern shore before crossing the Salt River below Roosevelt Dam. The dirt grade is graded gravel rather than technical, but width and drop-offs put it firmly off-limits for trailers, fifth wheels, and dual-rear-wheel trucks.
Points of Interest
- Goldfield Ghost Town. Reconstructed 1890s mining town a few miles up SR-88 from Apache Junction. Tourist-oriented but a useful first stop.
- Canyon Lake. The first of the three Salt River Project reservoirs along the route. Boat ramps, picnic areas, and the Dolly Steamboat tour dock.
- Tortilla Flat. Population six. Last fuel and food before the dirt section starts. Saloon and post office.
- Fish Creek Hill Overlook. The high point of the dirt section. Pullout above the canyon with the route's most famous view down to the Salt River.
- Apache Lake. Long, narrow reservoir behind Horse Mesa Dam. Marina, campground, and lakeside dispersed sites.
- Theodore Roosevelt Dam. The eastern terminus. Completed in 1911, the original masonry dam was raised and faced with concrete in the 1990s.
Where to Camp
Apache Lake Campground sits along the lake's south shore near the marina. Tonto NF maintains additional developed campgrounds at Burnt Corral and Cholla Bay on Roosevelt Lake. Dispersed camping is permitted on Tonto NF land off the main road with the standard 14-day stay limit, though most of the immediate corridor is signed against it. The Tonto Pass (daily or annual) is required for parking at developed sites.
Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Trip
- Check ADOT's SR-88 status before going. The dirt section closes during heavy rain and through repair windows.
- Drive the dirt section east-to-west if you want to face the cliff side rather than the drop side on Fish Creek Hill.
- Pull over for oncoming traffic on the one-lane switchbacks. Use the horn at blind corners.
- No fuel between Tortilla Flat and the SR-188 junction. Top off before leaving the pavement.
- Summer surface temperatures top 110°F. Plan a cool-season visit.
- The Tonto NF Mesa Ranger District handles current closures: 480-610-3300.
