Top Places to See When Driving From Apache Junction, Arizona to Wickenburg, Arizona

Driving from Apache Junction to Wickenburg, Arizona is a journey through some of the most beautiful and iconic desert landscapes in the southwestern United States. The drive offers breathtaking scenery with opportunities to explore unique places that combine the best of Arizona's western heritage, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you are a history buff, nature lover, or just an adventurous traveler, this road trip is guaranteed to leave you with many unforgettable memories.

Here are some of the top places to see when driving from Apache Junction to Wickenburg in Arizona.

Superstition Mountains

No trip to Apache Junction is complete without a visit to the famous Superstition Mountains, rising majestically above the surrounding landscape. The mountains are full of hiking trails, hidden canyons, and stunning scenic vistas that will leave you in awe. Take the Apache Trail, an 80-mile scenic drive that winds through the Tonto National Forest, and offers some of the best views of the Superstition Mountains. Stop at the Lost Dutchman State Park, and take a guided tour of the legendary Lost Dutchman's Gold Mine, a popular local folklore.

Goldfield Ghost Town

The Ghost Town is a great place for families with kids and those who want to learn more about the Wild West. Located just a few miles north of Apache Junction, the Goldfield Ghost Town is a restored Old West town that will take you back in time. You can explore the Goldfield Museum, pan for gold at the Mammoth Gold Mine, take a ride on the narrow-gauge railway through the Superstition Mountains, or watch a Wild West gunfight show. The town also offers a gift shop, cowboy cookouts, and a saloon with live music.

Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park

The Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park is one of Arizona's oldest and largest botanical gardens, covering a vast 392-acre area. The Arboretum features over 3,200 different types of plants from every continent on the planet, including a vast collection of desert plants, cacti, succulents, wildflowers, and trees. The park also has a variety of walking trails that offer visitors some of the most stunning views of the surrounding desert landscapes, including colorful rock formations and diverse wildlife.

Tonto Natural Bridge State Park

The Tonto Natural Bridge State Park is a hidden gem located just off Highway 87. The park features one of the world's largest natural travertine bridges, measuring over 150 feet wide and 400 feet long. Visitors can take one of the park's many hiking trails and explore the five different bridge levels, which offer breathtaking views of the bridge and the surrounding canyon. The park also features picnicking areas, fishing spots, and botanical walks.

Hassayampa River Preserve

The Hassayampa River Preserve is a lush oasis in the middle of the Sonoran Desert, located near Wickenburg. The preserve features over 100 bird species, including bald eagles, and nearly 200 butterfly species. It is a great place for bird watching, nature photography, and hiking. The preserve also offers guided tours, nature workshops, and educational programs.

Conclusion

The journey from Apache Junction to Wickenburg is a true gem for visitors to Arizona, offering a perfect combination of history, nature, and culture. The list mentioned above of the top places to see while driving offers a glimpse of the unique beauty that this desert state has to offer. So, grab your camera, pack your sunscreen, and hit the road! You are sure to have an unforgettable road trip experience.