The highlight for us was the Apache Trail. Along it, in the shadow of the Superstition Mountains, is Goldtown. Officially a ghost town since the mines played out, it is now run by enthusiasts who try to keep the area just as it used to be. We spent hours there, wandering around, taking photos, and just taking it all in. If you have the time, you could hunt for the Lost Dutchman mine -- many have tried. A few miles on is Tortilla Flat -- population 6! The saloon has saddles for bar stools, and be sure to visit the toilets, if only for the artwork. We saw horned mountain sheep from the sternwheeler 'Dolly' and, a few days later, experienced an early morning balloon flight. There is also the Verde Canyon Railway, another excursion not to be missed. The four-hour trip through the canyons and over the trestles (bridges to us) is a photographer's dream.
Quick Tips:
If you are interested in the history of the area, Jerome is the place to go; it is on the way to the Verde Canyon Railway. It was once an important copper mining town but unfortunately hit water, which flooded the workings, and no amount of pumping could get the level down. The mine closed, and the town all but went with it, but it has been saved and now has an informative museum, numerous stores full of collectibles (including a full-size cinema projector), and a number of restaurants.
Finally, don't forget Scottsdale's Old Town, with its numerous, life-size statues, plus many interesting galleries and art shops. As for eating, try the "meat lovers' platter for two" in My Big Fat Greek Restaurant. Heather and I struggled hard but had to admit defeat, with still enough left for us to join the many other customers leaving with 'doggy-bag' boxes! Take plenty of film or digital memory cards, as there is so much to take, and the results will remind you of a wonderful holiday for years to come.
Best Way To Get Around:
Although we did climb one one hump of the Camelback, we decided to leave the rest to the youngsters. A car is the best way to get around. Going to some of the places mentioned above, you can stop and spend as much time as you like. Having said that, however, there are organised trips, and details are available at the resort's front desk. Taxis are around, and we did see buses passing the gates, but we have no details as to times or frequency.