Top Five Popular Attractions Between Carefree and Apache Junction, Arizona
Are you planning a road trip between Carefree and Apache Junction, Arizona? You're in luck because this beautiful route has so much to offer! Get your camera ready and embark on a journey of a lifetime. Here are the top five places you should visit on your trip.
Halfway Point: Scottsdale, AZ
Scottsdale is the perfect place to stop halfway between Carefree and Apache Junction. This city is known for its luxurious spas, golf courses, and high-end shopping venues. Take a walk down Old Town Scottsdale and experience the fusion of Old West charm and modern sophistication. Admire the art galleries, boutiques, and delicious restaurants. Relax at a resort spa or test your golf skills at one of the many courses.
Top Five Places to See List
1. Tonto National Forest
The Tonto National Forest is a must-visit destination between Carefree and Apache Junction. The forest has six lakes and two major rivers that offer plenty of outdoor recreational activities, such as camping, hiking, and fishing. You can spend a day exploring the rugged terrain, picnicking by the beautiful lakes, or taking a scenic drive through the Salt River Canyon.
2. Tortilla Flat
Tortilla Flat is a former ghost town turned tourist destination. This quaint town has a population of six and is home to a small saloon, a museum, and a gift shop. While you're there, try the world-famous prickly pear ice cream, which is made from the cactus fruit that grows in the area. The drive along the Apache Trail to Tortilla Flat is also breathtaking, offering stunning views of the Superstition Mountains.
3. Goldfield Ghost Town
The Goldfield Ghost Town is a reconstructed ghost town that takes visitors back to the late 1800s. The town was originally built in 1892 during the Gold Rush, but it was abandoned after the gold ore ran out. Today, the ghost town offers a glimpse into the past with its re-created buildings, mine tour, gold panning, and cowboy gunfights. There are also shops, restaurants, and a museum.
4. Usery Mountain Regional Park
Usery Mountain Regional Park is a desert oasis with over 29 miles of hiking trails, nature centers, and picnic areas. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Sonoran Desert and see wildlife such as coyotes, javelinas, and bobcats. The park is also home to the Wind Cave Trail, a popular hike that leads to a natural cave formation. This park is perfect for families!
5. Boyce Thompson Arboretum
The Boyce Thompson Arboretum is a botanical garden that showcases plants from the deserts of the world. Visitors can walk through the garden and see over 3,000 different species of plants. Some of the highlights of the garden include the Cactus Garden, the Australian Garden, and the South American Garden. The arboretum is the perfect place to relax and appreciate the natural beauty of Arizona.
Best Route
The best route for this trip is to start in Carefree and take the scenic route along the Carefree Highway, which offers stunning views of the desert landscape. Then, turn onto the Pima Freeway and head south to Scottsdale. After stopping in Scottsdale, take the scenic Apache Trail towards Tortilla Flat, Goldfield Ghost Town, and Usery Mountain Regional Park. End your trip at the Boyce Thompson Arboretum, which is only a short drive away from Apache Junction. This route is approximately 70 miles and takes around 2 hours to complete.
So pack your bags and hit the road! This trip offers a unique combination of natural wonders, history, and culture that will leave you with unforgettable memories.