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As much as I enjoy taking the Bronco Sport out on an adventure, there are times when I want an easy dirt road trip. I’ve had it in mind for a while to write up a few suggestions as Arizona is loaded with places to go that don’t require much skill, just time. Two such roads are the Apache Trail and A-Cross road leading to and around Roosevelt Lake. I decided to start with these two since Apache Trail is soon to no longer be dirt. If you have a friend who is jealous of your Bronco Sport and wants to off-road, these are great roads to pull a Tom Sawyer. Ask him along, tell him he can drive on the dirt roads so you can sit back, relax and enjoy the views.
Apache Trail reopened in September 2024 after being closed due to an avalanche in 2019. I did this road, officially called State Rt. 88, back in 2013 and it was quite bumpy. Since it’s re-opened it is mostly well graded with sections now paved allowing for an ever-increasing amount of boats and fifth wheels making it down. Despite this, the views are fantastic. For me, there’s just something about driving in a valley, on the edge of the mountain and a river down below. Taking it from Apache Junction so you head towards the lake is a better view as you also get the anticipation of reaching your destination. Along the way you can stop in Tortilla Flats for some food and drinks. It’s also worth stopping at the Roosevelt Dam overlook. Once there you can drive up to the lakes edge for relaxing and overnight camping. This side of the lake offers better sunset views so be prepared for crowds.
On the other side of the lake is A-Cross road. A simple road with nothing challenging but equally beautiful views. Since it's less crowded, you are likely to see some wildlife. I spotted a group of deer but they fled as soon as they heard me backing up for a photo. It’s not as close to the lake as I was hoping but there’s a number of spur trails that the Bronco Sport should easily handle to get near the water. I didn’t take any this trip but plan to return to try them out. About halfway through the road, there’s a hiking trail to a peak if you have the time. Depending on which way you drive the road, you’ll either end up at Indian Point boat launch and campground (I slept inside the BS near the boat launch) or close to The Dam Grill and Chill for some beer and pizza.
If you head out soon, both roads should now have saguaros in full bloom which are a unique site if you have never seen. These are easy trails, with amazing views that I strongly recommend if you are in the area!
Apache Trail reopened in September 2024 after being closed due to an avalanche in 2019. I did this road, officially called State Rt. 88, back in 2013 and it was quite bumpy. Since it’s re-opened it is mostly well graded with sections now paved allowing for an ever-increasing amount of boats and fifth wheels making it down. Despite this, the views are fantastic. For me, there’s just something about driving in a valley, on the edge of the mountain and a river down below. Taking it from Apache Junction so you head towards the lake is a better view as you also get the anticipation of reaching your destination. Along the way you can stop in Tortilla Flats for some food and drinks. It’s also worth stopping at the Roosevelt Dam overlook. Once there you can drive up to the lakes edge for relaxing and overnight camping. This side of the lake offers better sunset views so be prepared for crowds.
On the other side of the lake is A-Cross road. A simple road with nothing challenging but equally beautiful views. Since it's less crowded, you are likely to see some wildlife. I spotted a group of deer but they fled as soon as they heard me backing up for a photo. It’s not as close to the lake as I was hoping but there’s a number of spur trails that the Bronco Sport should easily handle to get near the water. I didn’t take any this trip but plan to return to try them out. About halfway through the road, there’s a hiking trail to a peak if you have the time. Depending on which way you drive the road, you’ll either end up at Indian Point boat launch and campground (I slept inside the BS near the boat launch) or close to The Dam Grill and Chill for some beer and pizza.
If you head out soon, both roads should now have saguaros in full bloom which are a unique site if you have never seen. These are easy trails, with amazing views that I strongly recommend if you are in the area!
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