Apache Junction, Arizona

Perhaps one of the most famous legends of missing treasure will someday be unearthed deep in the Superstition Mountains of Apache Junction, Arizona. The Lost Dutchman Mine, named after Jacob Waltz, was supposedly discovered in the 19th century, and he never revealed the location. Waltz was said to have braved marauding Apache’s, and on his deathbed, revealed clues about the location. Since 1892, it has been estimated that nine-thousand people annually attempt to find the mine, and some have perished trying. To date, the mine remains a mystery. You can see remnants of Walsh’s journey at the Lost Dutchman exhibit at the Superstition Mountain Museum.

The city was named so because it was formed at the junction of the Apache Trail, a stagecoach trail that traversed the Superstition Mountains and the Old West Highway. The trail’s history dates back some 600 years and includes notables from history such as Coronado, Hohokams, Johnny Ringo and Billy the Kid. A special place to stop along the old highway is the Goldfield Ghost Town. In 1882, gold was struck here, a massive strike of about three million dollars. In today’s value, that’s over $80,000,000. More strikes were made, but eventually, the gold and the town went away. Between 1910 and 1926, attempts were made to bring the town back to life but failed. Today, visitors can take an antique train ride, pan for gold, and watch a wild west gunfight. The tales of gore related to ghost activity are so prominent that an episode of Ghost Adventures was dedicated to the town. You won’t have to go far for some excitement. Located in the ghost town is Superstition Zip Line. Travel just a few hundred feet above the town and get a great view of the park and nearby lake.

There is no better way to take in the historical sites than on horseback in keeping with the old West. The Ok Corral stables have been in business for over 50 years. The experienced guides steer through the beautiful scenery while telling the tales of the area. Keep your cameras ready as there is amazing flora to capture and perhaps even some indigenous animal sightings. If the clippity-clop of the horses has you ready for some relaxation, head on over to the Salt River Tubing. Here you can rent an inner tube and casually float the day away and take in the majestic views. Keep cool with a dip in the clear, cool water. Special events are scheduled throughout the year, including Mardi Gras Music, Mega Hawaiian Hula, and Salt River Heroes. Check the websites for dates and times.

The fun doesn’t end as the sun goes down, as Apache Junction is home to over 30 places to view live music. Some top-rated spots are The Handlebar Pub & Grill, Superstition Skies Restaurant & Lounge, and Rock N Ronnie’s.

At the end of a long day out, there is nothing like getting back to the sweet coolness of our homes or hotel rooms. For almost 50 years in Apache Junction and the surrounding areas, Norris Air has been the leader in residential and commercial AC installation Gilbert, maintenance, and repairs for many HVAC systems. For all your air conditioning and heating installation Gilbert needs, give us a call and ask about our Ultimate Savings Agreement.