Information on Apache Junction - A Sonoran Desert Oasis

Apache Junction, Arizona is one of the city oases located in the Sonoran Desert. The city sits in the southeast quadrant of the state. The mysterious, possibly haunted Superstition Mountains rise from the desert like a buttress on the east side of Apache Junction. Although the city is not one of the metropolises of the state, it is considered a desert gem with weather, views and activities to entice the resident and the vacationer. Apache Junction is steeped in old West folklore and the area still draws gold hunters seeking fame and fortune.

Apache Junction is named for the junction of the Apache Trail and the Globe-Phoenix Highway, U.S. 60. The Apache Trail was originally a trail in the Superstition Mountains used by the Apaches. The trail later became a stagecoach route. Tours of the rugged trail are a favored activity of visitors to the Apache Junction area.

An average annual rainfall of 13 inches creates a landscape filled with numerous varieties of cacti. The majestic Saguaro is a common site. Weather during the summer months can be quite toasty reaching average highs of 104 degrees. The moderate temperatures most of the year are one of the lures of Apache Junction.

The modest population of around 32,000 still enjoys the atmosphere of a small city with easy access to the large city amenities of the state’s capital, Phoenix. The 1800s and early 1900s, brought gold prospectors to the Superstitions. The most famous mine, if it exists, is the Dutchman’s Lost Mine. The mine has never been found. Stories of the mine have been immersed in legend and folklore and have resulted in scams and deaths. Ever hopeful gold and adventure seekers are still drawn by the stories.

An evening on the porch provides views of the Superstitions' silhouette topped with stars appearing in the night sky. A cool refreshing desert breeze ruffles wind chimes. The haunting sound of a lone coyote can be heard in the distance.

In the morning, it is the dazzling sunrises painted with lavenders, pinks and oranges that greet the lucky resident or vacationer. In the spring, flowering cacti open their magnificent blossoms to greet the rising sun. The color palate runs wild, bright oranges, sunny yellows, neon pinks and brilliant whites.

Apache Junction has a lot to offer. Panoramic views, old West history, overall great weather, mystery and all the amenities of a small city.

Goldberg & Osborne, a personal injury law firm in Apache, has provided this article for informational purposes only, written by an independent author, and has not reviewed or edited this article and is not responsible for its content or accuracy.