The Road Less Traveled

Ocotillo - only has leaves for a day after a rain, and they were in bloom!

Arizona Highway 88 has a section of road called The Apache Trail which a friend of ours recommended us to explore while we were visiting the greater Phoenix area.  We set out envisioning a leisurely drive into Tonto National Forest (amazingly a lot like a desert) hoping for some picturesque views since the road seems to wind around the Superstition Mountains.  As we drove along toward Tortilla Flats, an old mining town and supply junction, we commented on all the cactus plants, the interesting rock formations, and the beauty of Canyon Lake.  Had we stopped our tour at Tortilla Flats, we would have felt satisfied with our excursion.  But this friend emphasized driving BEYOND Tortilla Flats PAST where the pavement ends. 

AZ Hwy 88 - Yup - thats really the highway!

Okay, this is a state highway - does the pavement really end?  Why, yes it does, and it becomes single lane to boot!  A few more guard rails would have been appreciated, as the road literally hangs on the cliffs of the Fish Creek Canyon, but we were rewarded with magnificent views of this vast country of ours.

Saguaro Cactus - only grow a few inches a yr.
yet this guy is probably over 40 ft tall!

Who knew such a variety of cacti existed, and that Red Gum trees (by the Salt Creek bed) could be so massive?!  Our timing was perfect as the plant life seemed to be in full bloom.  Of course pictures do not do justice to the richness of color or vastness of  space, but I tried.  If you ever find yourself in Phoenix with a little extra time on your schedule, take this day trip, you will not be disappointed!

For additional information check out: The Apache Trail