Great Drives - Arizona

Roosevelt Lake & Dam

The Theodore Roosevelt Dam is an impressive work of construction that seems to be continually upgraded, with periodic holdups on the road before you join the main highway (Route 88). Arizona Route 188 leads north along the lake with access to five Forest Service campsites.

Tonto National Monument

The Sinagua Indian cliff dwelling looks down on Lake Roosevelt. There is a visitor center and picnic area with lake views. A trail leads to the ruins.

Picket Post Mountain

A landmark and lookout point during Indian wars, site of the Camp Pinal Outpost at the end of Stoneman Grade to the east. Soldiers protected Pinal City and the Silver King Mine from Apache Raiders. It was the home of Col. William Boyce Thompson, a mining magnate who founded the Southwestern Arboretum at the foot of the mountain.

Boyce Thompson Southwestern Arboretum

This outstanding garden is a state park. In addition to southwestern American trees, shrubs, and flowers, the park features collections of cacti and other plants from around the world. There is a plant shop at the arboretum entrance, with many varieties of palms, cacti, and other desert plants available for purchase. Plant lovers should not miss this attraction, and a full day can be well spent picnicking and walking the paths of this impressive park

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