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Roosevelt Lake and Bridge Panorama from Inspiration Point Scenic Overlook on Apache Trail.  Vineyard Ridge Centre Left

December 26, 2023

Superb Ridgewalk starting from Historic Roosevelt Lake Bridge at east end of Apache Trail and part of famous Arizona Trail.  With 2 cars 1-way through hike ending at Mills Ridge trailhead is the most recommended way.  Lacking alternate transportation, Out-and-back hike to Inspiration Point above Roosevelt Lake Dam is a must. On my visit I continued to Apache Lake viewpoint for another half an hour and enjoyed scenic Sunset over Salt River Valley. Trail is also used as approach for multi-day backpack into 4-Peaks wilderness. 

For day trips from Phoenix area one can drive Hwy87 north from Scottsdale or Hwy60 east from Apache Junction.  Distances are similar and it will take ~2hrs one way.  Note that Apache Trail access is not possible as of 2019 due to extensive Road damage caused by floods east of Tortilla Flat;  as off Dec '23 there were no plans for re-opening.   Roosevelt Lake area is super scenic with several points of interest - Roosevelt Dam as well as Tonto Cliff Dwelling National Monument few km south of Roosevelt Bridge are a must.  Parking is at roadside pullout just north of the bridge - first photo in the Gallery.  Cross the road and find somewhat hidden Trailhead on the other side.   Trail is well defined and it quickly gains elevation on well graded switchbacks, then traverses north side of Inspiration Point.  Final section before the highpoint is rocky and a bit rough - hiking poles are helpful for stability on descent.  Beyond the Inspiration point grade mellows and trail undulates across many small hills with typical Arizona Desert Landscape.   Usual turnaround for OnB trips is Apache Lake viewpoint ~30min past Inspiration Point.  On my trip I continued for another 15min or so, then turned back as trail headed for significant dip, then enjoyed spectacular walk under full Moon back to Roosevelt Lake.

Like many other hikes in this part of the world  October - April is the best time;  rest of the year it is just too hot.  I thought lake might provide some reprieve, but learned this was simply not the case while casually chatting with Park Ranger in Lower Tonto Cliff Dwellings.  This is highly recommended trip that still seems to be off-radar, even for locals.

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