US-60 to Apache Junction, to AZ88 - Time: 1+ Hour, 53 Miles (from Central Phoenix)

Goldfield ghost town, is a great place to visit with the superstition mountains providing the perfect backdrop!

Goldfield was a 1890's mining town. There is something there for everyone, a place the whole family can enjoy. They offer panning for gold, horseback rides, a train ride, and even a mine tour! Goldfield makes for a nice short trip from phoenix located off the 60 (see map below) Walk through the town, enjoy the shops which are NOT overpriced for a local tourist destination. Watch the goldfield gun fighters shoot it out in the street, be careful about breaking the law you might end up with your neck in a noose located in the middle of the town! There are tons of great picture opportunities to be had in and around town. Experience the Old West, the way it used to be, Goldfield provides a unique look at life in the sonoran desert. There are a few shops to get refreshments, and quick meals, be sure to check out the Mammoth Steak House for some excellent grub! be sure to check out their website for a complete list of activities and times.

 http://www.goldfieldghosttown.com/

 

Vulture Mine and Vulture Mine Road.

There are several routes.  This is one of the most popular ones:

I10 to 335^th Ave and head north. This will become N. Wickenburg Road. Take it to the end. There will be a stop sign. If you go straight, it becomes dirt. Turn right. This is Vulture Mine Rd. Vulture Mind Rd connects to Hwy 60 in Wickenburg.

Make sure you gas up. There is no fuel from I 10 to Hwy 60.

There are parts of this road that are long and straight, then there are some really nice high speed sweeping turns. Now, there is not a lot of traffic on this road, but when  you are doing 70mph and the farmers  in old pickups are doing 80 and passing you… well, you can guess the rest. I am not advocating high speed careless driving. Use your judgment. I love twisties.

Any way……This is a nice relaxing ride and at normal speeds, just cruise along and enjoy the day. Towards the end of Vulture Mine Road, is Vulture Mine. It will be on your left going in the direction you are going. The road is dirt, but maintained, just use caution.

Once there, head to the shack and pay your $5 bucks or whatever the fee dajour is. Take the self guided walking tour, bring water not matter what time of year, you camera and the not to scale map they provide. There are some really cool old buildings and lots and lots of history and photo opportunities.  You can spend lots of time there just strolling around. Use caution, Rattlesnakes and other critters.

After your stroll head on to Wickenburg. Lots of places for chow.

  

 

 

As always, ride safe.

Da Grump