Apache
Junction Arizona is located in Pinal County just 25 miles east
of downtown Phoenix and is the western terminus for the Apache
Trail.
Designated a historic road in 1986, the Apache Trail is one
of the most famous and scenic drives in the Southwest. Its 47-mile
length begins at Apache Junction and winds past the Superstition
Mountains, through Tonto National Forest, with views of three
lakes, cliff-dwellings, numerous ghost towns and magnificent
geologic formations along the way. President Theodore Roosevelt
described it as "One of the most spectacular, best-worth-seeing
sights in the world."
Around 900 AD, Salado Indians occupied the area surrounding
the Superstition Mountains and created many trails which were
later used by the Apache Indians in the late 19th century to
raid villages along the Salt River. Today, attractions in Apache
Junction include the Apache Greyhound Park, the OK Corral Stables,
horseback riding and RV campgrounds (Apache Junction is known
as the "RV Capitol of the Southwest"), the Mining
Camp Restaurant and Trading Post, the nearby Goldfield Ghost
Town, mine tours and train rides, Superstition Mountain, the
Lost Dutchman Museum, and Apache Trail Jeep Tours. Apache Junction
is also home to several day spas and health clubs as well as
local golf courses.
David J. Castello |