03 Apr 2014
(MESA, Ariz.) – One of the most popular day trips for anyone visiting Mesa, Ariz. is along the historic Apache Trail through the mysterious Superstition Mountains and into the foothills of the Tonto Natural Forest – the fifth largest forest in the United States. To this day, the area continues to pay homage to its Western roots, which took shape in the late 1800s. On this scenic drive guests will encounter an authentic old west stagecoach stop, a ghost town, the famous Elvis Presley Chapel, and the majesty of a mountain lake, all nestled in the beautiful Sonoran Desert landscape that captures the true essence of Arizona.
GHOSTS AND GOLD
For more than 115 years, Goldfield Ghost Town has welcomed travelers from all over the world to discover the charm and history of this authentic gold mining town. In its heyday, Goldfield was a busy bustling little outpost perched atop a small hill between the mighty SuperstitionMountains to the east and the GoldfieldMountains to the west. The first gold-strike was made in 1892, and it took just a little under a year before the town came to life. Today, visitors can walk down Main Street, explore the many shops and historic buildings and tour the historic Mammoth Gold Mine and Goldfield Historical Museum. Popular attractions for kids and adults are panning for gold and hopping aboard Arizona's only narrow gauge train. Don't miss one of the daily gunfights presented by the Goldfield Gunfighters and the underground mine tours.
SUPERSTITION & LORE IN THE SONORAN DESERT
As you go further along the Apache Trail, make a stop at Lost Dutchman Arizona State Park. Trails take visitors up close to the ghostly and volcanic Superstition Mountains which rise 2,000 feet into the desert sky. Hidden in the depths of this forbidding range is the Lost Dutchman gold mine, one of the most storied “lost mines” of the Wild West. Hiking trails are offered that range in distance and elevation. The park is open year-round from sunrise to 10 p.m., the U.S. Forest Service protects these beautiful mountains in the nation's most popular designated wilderness area.
Just around the bend, you can stumble upon the tiny Tortilla Flat stagecoach stop settlement that once boasted a hotel, general store and saloon. Today, it boasts six full-time residents and a saloon with saddles for barstools and walls covered with currency and business cards from around the world. Don't miss out on the “Killer Chili,” prickly pear cactus ice cream and other Southwestern specialties.
AN OASIS IN THE DESERT
Complete your tour at Canyon Lake with a Mark Twain-inspired voyage aboard the Dolly Steamboat, a replica of a sternwheeler paddleboat. Cruise the lakes' secluded inner waterways and photograph desert bighorn sheep and other wildlife. The 90-minute nature cruise or twilight dinner cruise is the perfect complement to the Apache Trail experience.
After a day of driving and discovery, circle back and stop at the world famous Mining Camp Restaurant for a hearty meal of good ol' Western food. Nestled at the base of the beautiful Superstition Mountains, the restaurant's unique concept follows the theme of the early mining camp cook shanty. Guests can reminisce about a by-gone era and dine on hearty dishes including ribs, ham and potaoes that is shared in plentiful quantities.
NATIVE AMERICAN NEIGHBORS
Adjacent to Mesa in the northeast Valley you will find the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation. This treasured community is a 40-square mile reservation representing the ancestral territory of the once nomadic Yavapai Tribe. The Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation is home to several unique visitor experiences within close proximity of Mesa's borders including Fort McDowell Adventures. Situated in the middle of the Sonoran Desert, this premier outdoor activity and event venue hosts cowboy cookouts and cattle drives, as well as horseback riding tours along the Verde River.
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MEDIA CONTACT:
Michelle Streeter, Director of Communications
Visit Mesa
Direct: 480-682-3638 Toll-free: 800-283-6372 x345
E-mail: Michelle@VisitMesa.com
Download Images: High-resolution images for editorial use are available for download at www.VisitMesa.com/PhotoTour
