Apache Trail w/Dolly Steamboat Full Day Small Group Tour

Imagine leaving the hustle and bustle of Phoenix or Scottsdale behind for a day to explore some of Arizona’s most iconic sights. That’s exactly what the Apache Trail with Dolly Steamboat offers — a well-rounded experience filled with spectacular vistas, historical stops, and relaxing boat rides. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a taste of the desert’s rugged beauty without sacrificing comfort or depth.

What makes this tour especially appealing? First, you’ll love the personalized small-group setting, which makes for a more intimate and flexible adventure. Second, the variety of highlights — from ghost towns to mountain lakes — keeps the day lively and visually stunning. A potential consideration is the timing at some stops, like the ghost town of Goldfield, which might feel brief if you’re eager to explore more deeply.

This tour is best suited for those who appreciate scenic drives, historical sites, and leisurely boat cruises — especially if you’re traveling with family, friends, or simply want a comprehensive Arizona experience in one day.

Key Points

• Small Group Comfort: Enjoy a more personalized experience with just 13 guests.
• Variety of Sights: From ghost towns and scenic highways to mountain lakes.
• Relaxing Cruise: A peaceful 90-minute Dolly Steamboat ride on Canyon Lake.
• Rich History: Visits to Goldfield and Tortilla Flat reveal Arizona’s western past.
• Scenic Drive: Travel along Arizona’s first designated “Historic Highway.”
• Value: Includes bottled water and cruise admission, offering a solid day for the price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Apache Trail Adventure

Introduction to the Experience

The Apache Trail with Dolly Steamboat is a popular choice for visitors who want a full-day, scenic, and engaging tour close to Phoenix and Scottsdale. We haven’t personally been on this tour, but based on detailed reviews and the itinerary, it’s clear that the experience combines natural beauty, history, and leisure in a balanced package.

We particularly like the way the tour offers small group intimacy, which allows for a more flexible and attentive experience. The diversity of activities and stops keeps the energy up — you’ll get the thrill of mountain scenery, the nostalgia of old western towns, and the serenity of canyon lakes.

A possible drawback? Some reviewers mentioned that stops like Goldfield can feel rushed, leaving little time for exploration. And, while the tour includes many highlights, it’s a long day — about 8 hours — so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full schedule.

This tour is ideal for families, history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone looking to get a well-rounded taste of Arizona’s desert and mountain scenery without the hassle of planning multiple separate outings.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Scenic Drive on Arizona’s Historic Highway

The tour begins with a scenic drive down Arizona’s first designated “Historic Highway”, a route that started as an Indian trail and later served as a vital supply route. Today, it winds through the Sonoran Desert and offers views of the Superstition Mountains—a rugged backdrop that’s as awe-inspiring as it is photogenic.

Traveling in a 13-seat high-roof van offers comfort and a chance for everyone to see the sights comfortably. Many reviewers appreciate the informative commentary from guides, who share stories about the area’s history and geology. It’s a leisurely start that sets the tone for the rest of the day, giving you a sense of Arizona’s wild, rugged spirit.

More Great Tours Nearby

Goldfield Ghost Town

Next, you visit Goldfield, a restored ghost town that once thrived during Arizona’s mining days. Here, you get a snapshot of the Old West — imagine old buildings, a stagecoach stop, and some fun photo opportunities. Several visitors note that Goldfield is a “picture-perfect glimpse” into Arizona’s pioneering past.

However, some feel the time here could be longer. One review mentions, “Very scenic tour… wish more time was allotted for certain stops like the museum,” which suggests Goldfield offers just enough for a quick look but not an in-depth exploration.

Tortilla Flat

A favorite stop for many is Tortilla Flat, a tiny, colorful stagecoach stop with a quirky charm. It’s a perfect spot for photos, a quick snack, or simply soaking in the Old West atmosphere. Reviewers call it a “great little ‘old west’ stop”, and it frequently stands out as a highlight, thanks to its vibrant appearance and friendly atmosphere.

Canyon Lake & Dolly Steamboat Cruise

The central highlight of the tour is a 90-minute cruise on Canyon Lake aboard the Dolly Steamboat. This peaceful boat ride offers sweeping views of rocky crags and towering cliffs. Travelers often describe it as relaxing and scenic, with some noting that the boat ride was “so peaceful and relaxing,” providing a perfect break from standing and walking.

The boat cruise also offers a different perspective on the landscape, with the chance to see wildlife and learn about the geology from knowledgeable guides. For many, this cruise is the crown jewel of the day — a calm and beautiful way to connect with Arizona’s natural side.

Additional Highlights & Tips

While most of the day is packed with sightseeing, the tour includes bottled water and access to the cruise, making it good value. The timing at each stop tends to be reasonable, but if you’re particularly eager to explore every detail — like the Goldfield museum — you might find time a bit limited.

Transportation & Group Size

Traveling in a small, 13-seat van means fewer crowds and more personal attention. The small group setup often garners praise for allowing the guides to be more engaging and responsive. This is a plus if you prefer a more intimate experience over a large bus tour.

Accessibility & Considerations

The tour can accommodate folding wheelchairs or walkers, although walking up three large van steps unassisted is necessary. It’s a full-day experience, so be prepared for a long stretch of sightseeing and some walking.

Pricing & Value

At $169 per person, this tour is priced in line with similar full-day excursions in the area. Considering it includes the cruise, bottled water, and expert guides, it offers good value for travelers looking for a comprehensive Arizona adventure.

While there’s no lunch included, the stops at iconic sites mean you can bring snacks or plan to grab a quick meal in Tortilla Flat or nearby. Some reviews pointed out the long lunch break, so if you’re someone who prefers shorter meal stops, that’s worthy of note.

What Past Travelers Say

• Highly praised guides — reviews consistently mention knowledgeable, friendly guides who make the experience enjoyable.
• Stunning scenery — many reviewers rave about the views of the Superstition Mountains and Canyon Lake, calling it “spectacular” and “beautiful.”
• Good pacing — most find the day well-paced, with enough time at each stop to appreciate the sights.
• A bit rushed at some stops — a few wish for more time at Goldfield or the ghost town, especially for photography or exploring.
• Last-minute cancellations — one reviewer noted that if minimum numbers aren’t met, the tour could be canceled, so booking early is wise.

The Sum Up

The Apache Trail with Dolly Steamboat provides a well-balanced, scenic, and historically interesting full-day tour in Arizona. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy nature, history, and leisurely boat rides in a small-group setting. The combination of a scenic highway drive, historic towns, and a tranquil boat cruise makes it a versatile choice for many travelers.

It’s a tour that values authenticity and comfort, making it a smart pick for families, couples, or solo adventurers eager to see some of Arizona’s iconic landscapes without a lot of fuss. While some stops could be longer, the overall experience offers a fulfilling glimpse into the desert’s rugged charm and mountain majesty.

If you’re after a day filled with picturesque views, friendly guides, and a taste of Arizona’s wild west past, this tour delivers on all counts — especially if you’re traveling with an appreciation for both natural beauty and historical storytelling.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Pickup is available at select hotels in the Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Tempe area, but it’s not guaranteed. You might need to meet at another hotel if yours isn’t on the list. It’s best to confirm ahead of time.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop and the cruise comfortably.

What is included in the price?
The price of $169 covers bottled water throughout the day and admission to the Dolly Steamboat cruise. Lunch is not included, so plan accordingly.

Can I bring a folding wheelchair or walker?
Yes, the tour can accommodate folding wheelchairs or walkers, but you will need to walk up three large van steps unassisted.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 3 years old are not permitted on this tour. The experience is generally family-friendly, especially for those interested in scenery and history.

What if the tour doesn’t meet the minimum number of participants?
In that case, DETOURS American West will email you about cancellation — but they also offer the option to reserve now and pay later, giving you flexibility.

How much time is spent at each stop?
Stops like Goldfield and Tortilla Flat are brief but enough to get a sense of their charm. Some reviews suggest that certain sites could use a little more time, so plan accordingly if you want to explore more deeply.

This tour offers a wonderful combination of visual splendor, historical character, and relaxing boat time. It’s a great way to experience the diverse landscape of Arizona in just one day, with guides who know how to make the stories and scenery come alive.

You can check availability for your dates here: