Apache Trail & Superstition Wilderness Area
Take in the sights around Mesa Arizona, including the Apache Trail, Superstition Mountain, the Lost Dutchman Mine and Museum, Dolly Steamboat at Canyon Lake and more. Information from the Mesa CVB.
Spend the day exploring the Superstition Wilderness Area by following the Apache Trail. As you travel along the trail stop and marvel at the towering Superstition Mountain, learn about the area's history at the Lost Dutchman Mine and Museum, take a ride on the Dolly Steamboat on Canyon Lake, and enjoy Mesa's extensive outdoor activities.
Superstition Wilderness Area
The Superstition Wilderness Area was designated as a Primitive Area in 1939, became a Wilderness Area in 1964, and expanded to its approximately 160,200 acres in 1984. In summer, the area is met with extreme heat and a shortage of water and in winter the area is known to experience cold days. Visitors can explore the Superstition Wilderness by following the Apache Trail and other trails throughout the area.
The Apache Trail: An Epic Road Trip Starting in Mesa, Arizona
Distance: 65 miles round trip
Directions: From Mesa take U.S. 60 east, exit at Idaho Road and travel north to connect with Highway 88.
Follow in the footsteps the Native Americans and hopeful prospectors took over 100 years ago. The trail features miles of spectacular desert wilderness and scenic beauty guiding visitors through Superstition Mountains and Tonto National Forest.
Those on the Apache Trail will look up at the ghostly, volcanic Superstition cliffs rising 2,000 feet above the ground. These cliffs expertly hide the Lost Dutchman Mine, one of the most storied mines of the West. The Superstition Mountain Lost Dutchman Museum displays the artifacts, history and folklore of the Superstition Mountains and surrounding region.
3 Sights Not to Miss Along the Apache Trail
1. Goldfield Ghost Town
In the 1890s Goldfield was a booming community. Located on a little knoll off Mammoth Mine Road, Goldfield Ghost Town offers a guided tour of a reconstructed section of the Mammoth Mine. There are unique shops, a saloon and a general store. Enjoy a grilled steak, or just pan for gold. Jeep and helicopter tours are on site.
2. Canyon Lake
In the Tonto National Forest, Canyon Lake Marina offers Marine and fishing supplies are available for boaters and fishing enthusiasts. Climb aboard the Dolly Steamboat at Canyon Lake and cruise the secluded inner waterways on a Nature Cruise or a Twilight Dinner Cruise. Don't forget your camera and binoculars!
3. Tortilla Flat
The famous authentic stagecoach stop of Tortilla Flat is nestled in the Superstition Mountain Wilderness. Belly up to the bar and get the best "Old West" burgers and home-style chili and salsa, then stop by the Old-Fashioned Ice Cream-Candy store and try the Prickly Pear ice cream.