Southern Tier alternative

[pedaler]

Travelling out of Phoenix, E bound, the route goes to Globe via Jake's Corner.  Why does it not go via Apache Trail?  It looks a much more interesting route and there seems to be littlle traffic.

Cliff.

[TCS]

I remember Apache Trail (Arizona 88) as ~40 miles of narrow, unpaved washboard, with zero visibility for a bit because of the dust clouds after meeting the occasional RV pulling a boat.

It's certainly cyclable, depending on what one wants out of life.

[pedaler]

Thanks for the info.  If you know Titus Canyon, Beattie to Death Valley, how would you compare it?  I found it tough!

[dpaulc]

The Apache trail from Phoenix to Globe through Superior.  Phoenix to Superior is a piece of cake. Superior to Globe goes through Top of the World. The name should give you some idea of what you would be facing. I did a solo in and around Death Valley last April. My last leg was Stovepipe Wells to Beatty to Amargosa Valley. The climb out of the park into Beatty was about the same as Superior to Globe.

I hope this helps.

[John Nettles]

Here is a very recent journal page regarding the Apache Trail (read the next page also).  You would be riding it in reverse of what he did.  Looks a little rough now but it has been on my bucket list for years.

https://www.crazyguyonabike.com/doc/page/?o=39A&page_id=598218&v=1Y

Here is some more info on the Apache Trail.

https://www.crazyguyonabike.com/search/?main_type=all&query=%22apache+trail%22&sort=date_desc
Tailwinds, John

[pedaler]

John, thanks for your Input  but the Apache is route 88 wheras you've commented on route 60.
About to read up on CGOBs comments

[John Nettles]

I believe the links are correct.  It does have parts that are on Route 60 but the latter part of the first linked page is Route 88 that goes from Apache Jct to Roosevelt via Tortilla Flat .  The second talks about Route 88 further.

The second link is using a search of "Apache Trail" so there may be some unintended references.
Tailwinds, John

[pedaler]

Yes, the links are ok.  It was your text that I was referring to.

The Apache trail from Phoenix to Globe through Superior.

Let's not dwell on this as I've listened and made my decision - Route 60.


Thanks, all.

Cliff

[John Nettles]

Hope you enjoy the trip!

BTW, it was dpaulc who referenced Globe. That is why I was confused when you said I said Globe.

Be very careful of the Queen Creek Tunnel as it will be uphill for you.  I "think" that is why ACA re-routed the route due to lots of riders commenting on the danger aspects.
Tailwinds, John

[pedaler]

Don't like tunnels! The ACA suggest walking on the narrow path.