Apache Trail Tour and Lake Cruise: From Phoenix / Scottsdale

Exploring the rugged beauty of the Sonoran Desert is a must-do experience for many visitors to the Phoenix/Scottsdale area. The Apache Trail Tour and Lake Cruise offers an excellent opportunity to take in the region’s natural wonders and rich history. Travelers can expect a comprehensive guided tour, from marveling at the iconic saguaro cacti to cruising the serene waters of Canyon Lake. Whether you’re seeking an adventure or a leisurely day in the desert, this tour promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation for the remarkable landscapes and cultural heritage of this captivating corner of Arizona. But what hidden gems might you discover along the way?

Key Points

• This 8-hour tour from Phoenix/Scottsdale includes hotel pickup, a 90-minute Canyon Lake cruise, and a visit to the Goldfield Ghost Town and Tortilla Flat.
• Explore the diverse flora of the Sonoran Desert, including towering saguaro cacti, ocotillo, and creosote bushes, with insights from a live guide.
• Enjoy the serene beauty of Canyon Lake, nestled within the Superstition Mountains, with opportunities to spot wildlife along the shoreline.
• Explore Arizona’s rugged past at the Goldfield Ghost Town, where you can pan for gold and witness live-action gunfight reenactments.
• Experience the old-world charm of Tortilla Flat, a quaint and historic destination in the Superstition Mountains, with its rustic architecture and local eateries.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Duration and Inclusions

The Apache Trail Tour and Lake Cruise lasts 8 hours and includes hotel pickup in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area, all taxes, bottled water, and a 90-minute cruise ticket on Canyon Lake worth $20.

The tour is led by a live guide and is limited to small groups of 5 participants or fewer.

Guests can freely cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

During the tour, they’ll discover the Sonoran Desert flora, relax on the lake cruise, and visit Goldfield Ghost Town and Tortilla Flat.

However, smoking and bringing large bags or luggage aren’t allowed.

A minimum of 2 adult-rate tickets is required, and the lake cruise schedule is subject to availability, usually at noon and 2 PM.

Discover Sonoran Desert Flora

During the Apache Trail Tour, guests will have the opportunity to discover the diverse and fascinating flora of the Sonoran Desert. This unique desert ecosystem is home to a variety of plant life, including towering saguaro cacti, ocotillo, and creosote bushes, each adapted to thrive in the region’s hot, arid climate.

The tour guides will point out and explain the key features of these hardy plants, such as:

• The thick, waxy coating of the creosote bush that helps retain moisture
• The accordion-like pleats of the saguaro cactus that expand as it absorbs water
• The spiny, woody stems of the ocotillo that burst into vibrant red flowers after rainfall
• The shallow, wide-spreading root systems that allow desert plants to quickly capture scarce precipitation.

Relaxing Canyon Lake Cruise

Guests will relax on a serene 90-minute cruise across the tranquil waters of Canyon Lake, nestled within the dramatic Superstition Mountains. The boat tour offers breathtaking views of the rugged desert landscape and the opportunity to spot a variety of wildlife along the shoreline. As you glide across the lake, you’ll be treated to sights of soaring eagles, grazing bighorn sheep, and other desert creatures in their natural habitat. The cruise provides a peaceful respite from the day’s exploration, allowing you to sit back, breathe in the fresh air, and fully learn about the serene beauty of this desert oasis.

On the Cruise	Expect to See
Serene Waters	Eagles
Rugged Mountains	Bighorn Sheep
Diverse Wildlife	Desert Vegetation
Peaceful Atmosphere	Stunning Vistas
Educational Commentary	Relaxation

Explore Goldfield Ghost Town

Visitors can explore Goldfield Ghost Town, a meticulously preserved 19th-century mining settlement nestled in the Superstition Mountains. This authentic recreation of an Old West town offers a glimpse into Arizona’s rugged past, with a variety of shops, museums, and historic buildings that transport guests back in time.

Highlights include:

• Exploring the Goldfield Museum to learn about the town’s mining history
• Panning for gold at the Gold Rush Adventures sluice
• Riding the Goldfield Scenic Railroad for a panoramic view of the Superstition Mountains
• Witnessing a live-action gunfight reenactment on Main Street

With its charm and educational offerings, Goldfield Ghost Town provides a captivating window into the American West.

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Visit Tortilla Flat Destination

After exploring the Goldfield Ghost Town, the tour continues on to Tortilla Flat, a quaint and historic destination in the Superstition Mountains.

Tortilla Flat is a small, unincorporated community that offers a glimpse into Arizona’s Old West heritage, with its rustic architecture, local eateries, and unique shops.

Visitors can browse through the charming shops, find souvenirs, and try traditional southwestern cuisine.

The community is also known for its historic buildings, including the Tortilla Flat Post Office, which has been in operation since 1904.

With its picturesque setting and old-world charm, Tortilla Flat provides a delightful stop on the Apache Trail Tour, allowing participants to enjoy the region’s rich cultural history.

Transportation and Pickup Details

The tour includes complimentary hotel pickup from select locations in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area. Guests are advised to be ready at their hotel lobby or designated pickup spot at the scheduled time, as the tour operates on a tight schedule.

Transportation is provided in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle throughout the day’s activities.

The pickup and drop-off locations are designed to be convenient for participants. Some key advantages include:

• Avoiding the hassle of driving and navigating unfamiliar roads
• Enjoying the scenery and sights without worrying about traffic or parking
• Having a knowledgeable guide handle all the logistics
• Arriving at each destination relaxed and ready to explore

Booking and Cancellation Policies

Booking this Apache Trail Tour and Lake Cruise is straightforward, and guests can easily reserve their spots online. Cancellations are permitted up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing for flexibility in planning.

The tour has a minimum of 2 adults required, and the schedule for the 90-minute Canyon Lake cruise is subject to availability, typically at noon and 2 PM. The itinerary may be adjusted accordingly, but all the highlights will still be visited.

Booking and Cancellation Details
Tour Duration	8 hours
Group Size	Limited to 5 guests
Cancellation Policy	Free up to 24 hours
Pickup Location	Phoenix/Scottsdale
Inclusions	Taxes, water, cruise

Important Tour Information

This Apache Trail Tour and Lake Cruise offers an engaging and immersive experience for visitors seeking to explore the natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert and the historic sites along the Apache Trail.

Participants should note that the tour has a minimum of 2 adult rate tickets required, and the lake cruise schedule is subject to availability, typically offered at noon and 2 PM.

To ensure a smooth experience, the itinerary may be adjusted accordingly, but all the highlighted points will still be visited.

Guests are advised to avoid smoking and bringing large bags or luggage, as these aren’t allowed on the tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring a Small Camera or Binoculars?

Yes, small cameras and binoculars are allowed on the tour. They won’t interfere with the experience and can be helpful for capturing photos and observing wildlife during the desert and lake portions of the excursion.

Is There Any Age Restriction for the Tour?

The Apache Trail Tour and Lake Cruise doesn’t have any age restrictions. Children are welcome to participate, making it a great family-friendly activity. However, parents should ensure their kids can handle the 8-hour duration comfortably.

What Type of Footwear Is Recommended?

Comfortable, closed-toe shoes or hiking boots are recommended for this tour. The terrain can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is important for your safety and comfort while exploring the Sonoran Desert and canyon landscapes.

Can I Purchase Snacks or Souvenirs During the Tour?

Yes, participants can purchase snacks and souvenirs during the tour. The Goldfield Ghost Town offers various food and gift shop options, allowing visitors to explore local cuisine and pick up mementos from the experience.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is wheelchair accessible, as the transportation and locations visited accommodate guests with mobility needs. However, the lake cruise may have limited accessibility, so guests should check with the tour provider for specific details.

Recap

The Apache Trail Tour and Lake Cruise offers a captivating exploration of Arizona’s Sonoran Desert.

From discovering unique desert flora to cruising Canyon Lake and visiting historic sites, this comprehensive tour provides an immersive experience in the region’s natural beauty and rich heritage.

With convenient hotel pickup and a variety of inclusions, it’s an ideal way for visitors to experience the wonders of the Arizona desert.

You can check availability for your dates here: