Description: This is definitely a drive worth driving :-) It is very close to Phoenix / Scottsdale and you can drive all the way through, just getting off the car at lookouts, if that is what you want to do. It can be a nice program for a lazy day when you want something else than hiking. One thing we noticed was that unlike other desert destinations, there were bugs here and they were quite annoying at a few places where we stayed out of the car longer.
The trail starts at Apache Junction and ends at Globe, even though you may leave it early using the Theodore Roosevelt Bridge. We personally did not find Globe attractive at all, but I am not sure if we found the "downtown" we were looking for.
Soon after the start, you can visit an old mining town of "Goldfield", which I believe is worth the stop. Later, you will drive past three lakes - Canyon Lake, Apache Lake, and Theodore Roosevelt Lake. All these lakes are the result of building the T.R. dam. There are some very nice lake and mountain views along the trail. You will even see some Saguaros along the wa, which is an interesting view (cacti by lakes).
About 22 miles of the road are unpaved, but a regular sedan will have no problems (in dry weather). There is no gas available along the whole trail so make sure your gas tank is full. It appeared not too many cars decided to take this drive so you will have even some privacy here.
One thing I have to say though is - "Don't expect a wilderness trail"! This is nothing like that. While mostly unpaved, there is a road all along, we did not see too many side trails. I must admit I expected a little more natural setting.
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