Private Apache Trail & Dolly Steamboat Tour

From$1,290
8 hours
Phoenix, USA

About this activity

Experience the historic Apache Trail and a scenic Dolly Steamboat cruise on Canyon Lake in this full-day private tour from Phoenix, including hotel pickup and drop-off.

Highlights

  • Explore the historic Apache Trail
  • Enjoy a scenic Dolly Steamboat cruise
  • Visit the picturesque Canyon Lake
  • Discover the Goldfield Ghost Town
  • Experience the beauty of the Superstition Mountains

Full description

Discover the rich history and stunning landscapes of Arizona on this exclusive private tour. Traverse the legendary Apache Trail, renowned for its rugged beauty and historical significance. Cruise the serene waters of Canyon Lake aboard the Dolly Steamboat, offering unparalleled views of the Superstition Mountains. Explore the Goldfield Ghost Town, a preserved mining town that brings the past to life. With personalized attention and hotel pickup and drop-off in Phoenix, this tour ensures a memorable adventure tailored just for you.

Included / Excluded

  • Private guided tour of Apache Trail
  • Dolly Steamboat cruise on Canyon Lake
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off in Phoenix
  • Meals and beverages

Itinerary

1

Only minutes from the city, the Apache Trail is the perfect way to experience the beauty of the Sonoran desert. Arizona’s first designated “Historic Highway” and a scenic byway, the original Apache Trail was a footpath by which the local Apache Tribe traveled through the Superstition Mountains.

Duration: 2 hoursAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
2

Pass by: View these stunning desert mountains as you drive along the Apache Trail

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
3

During your tour along the Apache Trail, you will also be treated to a steamboat cruise on Canyon Lake by the famous Dolly Steamboat.

Duration: 2 hoursAdmission: YES
4

As part of the six mile narrated nature cruise, there may be opportunities to see bighorn sheep, bald eagles, and a host of other desert animals as well as unforgettable views of 1,300 ft. volcanic cliff walls of Canyon Lake.

Duration: 1 hourAdmission: YES
5

Two of the more colorful stops along the Apache Trail are Goldfield Ghost Town and Tortilla Flat.

Duration: 30 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
6

Goldfield, aptly named after the precious metal found in the area, was incorporated in 1892. For five long years this town was a gold miner’s paradise, however, soon after the vein stopped producing Goldfield quickly turned into a gold mining ghost town. During the tour you will have a chance to spend time in this restored ghost town practicing your gold panning techniques, marveling at the original mining gear, or even spending some time at Lu Lu’s Bordello if you dare.

Duration: 1 hourAdmission: YES

Important information

Know before you book

  • This tour is private and can be customized to your preferences.
  • Availability may vary; it's recommended to book in advance to secure your preferred date.
  • The tour operates in all weather conditions; please dress appropriately for the day's forecast.

Know before you go

  • Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear suitable for walking and outdoor activities.
  • Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking landscapes and historic sites.
  • Consider bringing a light jacket, as temperatures can vary throughout the day.

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Accessibility

  • Service Animals Allowed

Good to know

  • No glass allowed on vehicle
  • Foldable wheelchairs/strollers are accessible
  • Closed toe shoes and seasonal clothing are reccomended
  • Service animal requiers paperwork

Traveler reviews

4.9
8 reviews
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7
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1
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They had a wonderful experience.

My name is Pearl. I work at the Doubletree Hilton Phoenix North. The guests Mr & Mrs. Szonn who i helped booked this tour for. They had a wonderful experience. They said that the guide they had was wonderful. How who explain everything to them knew the area very well. This was a private tour. Unfortunately i don't know his/her name. These guests are visiting from Germany. Who i had the pleasure of taking care of while they were here. They loved the Dolly Steamboat Tour where the saw eagles and a Bighorn Sheep.

sheilatS5212BCMay 18, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Fun on Apache Trail

Was a fun day Jordan did a very good job

ddb1101May 11, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Viator and Detours outstanding services

Excellent execution of tourism services by Viator and Detours travels. Flawless, customer friendly, punctual and very knowledgeable tour guude in Han.

sunderv2021Apr 16, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Once Upon a Time in Phoenix

We arranged a tour for college classmates and wives, a dozen total. We are all in our 80's, so we were mindful of the need to avoid difficult walking terrain and strenuous conditions. Detours took great care of us. They picked us up in a very comfortable van at our hotel and returned us there seven hours later. The driver/guide, Mark H., was knowledgeable, entertaining, and a very careful driver. We visited the Superstition Mountain Museum, the old mining town Goldfield, and took a ride on the Dolly Steamboat on Canyon Lake. We concluded with a lunch in Tortilla Flat at the local saloon. Not normally not a part of the tour, and an add-on expense, we easily arranged the lunch with Rachel, our superb contact at Detours. Rachel and Victoria, the tour coordinators, were really easy and pleasant to work with. WWe would not hesitate to use Detours again.

larrynA5233UCNov 16, 2025TRIPADVISOR

6 out of 5 Stars!

We took the Apache Trail Tour and couldn't have been more pleased. Our knowledgeable tour guide took us first to the Superstitions Museum, (very interesting, ) followed by a scenic ride to Canyon Lake. A boat ride through the canyon was incredibly relaxing and so beautiful. The coach accommodations were comfortable and staff members so helpful. I accidentally left a sweater on the bus. It was found and delivered to my hotel. What wonder service!

105janehOct 23, 2025TRIPADVISOR

Additional information

No glass allowed on vehicle Foldable wheelchairs/strollers are accessible Closed toe shoes and seasonal clothing are reccomended Service animal requiers paperwork