Mesa, AZ (11/13 - 11/25/24)

Moving to the center of the state, we stayed in Mesa, just east of Phoenix at the Monte Vista RV Resort. Here we wanted to ride our bikes along the multiple water drainage structures (washes) which are basically dried creek and riverbeds used during the monsoon season for water runoff. While some parts were paved, others were just dirt and there were many at-grade road crossings so we didn't ride a whole bunch.

One thing to do if you visit here is to take a drive on the Apache Trail along the Salt River and Superstition Mountains. Along the trail, we took a lake cruise on Canyon Lake aboard the Dolly Steamboat.

This little cruise was very scenic and informative on the history of the area.

Along the cruise, they showed us some examples of petrified trees embedded in the cliffs.

As you slowly wind along the trail, there are many spectacular views of lakes and mountains mixed together. Some of the road is paved, but some of it was dirt/rocks, so bring a vehicle with some ground clearance. We had no issues with our Grand Cherokee.

One place to stop along the scenic drive for a great lunch was the historic Tortilla Flat Saloon. This place was also very popular with bikers (motorized).

At the end of the trail, you run by the Roosevelt Dam.

Although not real long (~6m), we did find a great bike trail in Queen Creek that was more to our liking. Fully paved and very few road crossings this was the best trail we found in the area.

Since we had our AZ Parks Pass, we hiked some trails in the Lost Dutchman SP. One thing distinctive to this area of the country are all of the huge saguaros among many other cactus species.

A stunning view of the desert landscape at Lost Dutchman State Park, featuring a prominent saguaro cactus against a backdrop of rugged mountains and rocky terrain.

Another hike we did was the Lost Goldmine Trail that had spectacular views of the valley.

Another view from the Lost Goldmine Trail. Now we move south to Casa Grande to stay and venture out for a month+.