Didn't do proper research on this so called state highway. Twenty two miles of dirt road that took in excess of two hours to navigate. Wash board road much of the distance, narrow one lane bridges and climbs and descents. Not a good trip for a bagger. We left Apache Junction, went east to Roosevelt Dam on highway 88. When we got to the sign that said 22 miles of unpaved roads, we continued on to cut travel time. Big mistake. Dusty, rough and required absolute attention to detail while driving. Don't do it.

 

The key to riding the Apache Trail is to turn around at Tortilla Flat after a nice bowl of Chili and go back the way you came. I don't think they will ever pave the road past Apache Lake. If you're starting at the Lake Roosevelt end, don't even bother.

 

We did stop and eat at Tortilla Flat, but decided not to eat the chile as we were days away from ending out trip.

 

Good call!!

 

my first trip up the Apache Trail was in 1965 , my most recent was in 1974 . good to hear they haven't ruined it . you're right though , it isn't someplace you want to go unless you're prepared , and it sure as heck isn't a shortcut to anywhere !

 

That's a rough ride in a cage, I'd never attempt it on my Ultra.

 

Thanks for the heads up...I'll avoid it next summer.

 

It's a great ride from Apache Junction past Canyon Lake and on to Tortilla Flat, but then you just have to turn around and go back the way you came. Check out this website.

http://www.cyclerides.com/

Click on videos and then click on "The Ride To Canyon Lake" down toward the bottom of the list.

 

The ride up past Tortilla Flat is really nice. I just ride to where the dirt roads starts then turn around and head back towards Toritlla Flat and Canyon Lake.

 

Apache Trail is a nice day ride from Scottsdale. I would recommend it - if you turn around as advised. I can't imagine doing the dirt road unless on my KTM.