The Apache Trail and Dolly Steamboat Van Tour is a popular excursion that allows visitors to enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty of Arizona’s Sonoran Desert. Combining a scenic drive through rugged terrain with a tranquil cruise on Canyon Lake, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re seeking an adventure-filled day or a chance to simply bask in the serene surroundings, this tour offers a unique opportunity to discover the wonders that lie beyond the beaten path. With a well-crafted itinerary and knowledgeable guides, the stage is set for an unforgettable journey that just might leave you yearning for more.
Key Points
- Scenic drive along historic Apache Trail through Sonoran Desert
- 90-minute narrated cruise on Dolly Steamboat exploring slot canyons of Canyon Lake
- Lunch in the historic mining town of Tortilla Flat
- Hotel pickup and drop-off provided from select locations in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, and Mesa
- Maximum of 10 passengers per 15-passenger van
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Overview
The Apache Trail and Dolly Steamboat Van Tour combines a scenic drive through the Sonoran Desert along the historic Apache Trail with a relaxing cruise aboard the Dolly Steamboat through the picturesque slot canyons of Canyon Lake.
Guests will travel by van through the desert landscape, stopping at the historic mining town of Tortilla Flat for lunch.
They’ll then embark on a 90-minute narrated cruise on the Dolly Steamboat, gliding through the slot canyons and learning about the area’s natural and cultural history.
The tour includes transportation from select hotels in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, and Mesa, as well as bottled water.
Inclusions
This tour includes a cruise on the Dolly Steamboat, transporting guests through the picturesque slot canyons of Canyon Lake. Transportation is provided in 15-passenger vans, with a maximum of 10 passengers per van. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included for selected hotels in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, and Mesa, and bottled water is provided throughout the tour.
| Inclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Cruise on Dolly Steamboat | 90-minute narrated cruise through slot canyons |
| Transportation | 15-passenger vans, max 10 passengers per van |
| Hotel Pickup/Drop-Off | Selected hotels in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, and Mesa |
| Bottled Water | Provided throughout the tour |
The tour also includes a scenic drive along the Apache Trail in the Sonoran Desert and a visit to the historic town of Tortilla Flat.
Exclusions
While the tour includes several amenities, gratuities for the driver and boat staff aren’t covered.
Plus, no animals are allowed on the vans for the duration of the tour. Guests should plan to bring cash or tips for the hardworking crew who make the experience enjoyable.
As the tour explores the rugged Sonoran Desert and slot canyons, pets wouldn’t be suitable and could disrupt the experience for other travelers. The tour is designed to provide a comfortable and safe journey, so leaving animal companions at home is required.
Guests can fully enjoy the stunning natural landscapes without the added responsibility of caring for a pet during the excursion.
Meeting and Pickup
Guests can depart for the Apache Trail and Dolly Steamboat Van Tour from hotels and resorts located in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, and Mesa. It’s important to check emails, including the spam folder, the day before the tour for pickup details, as pickup times can vary. The tour uses 15-passenger vans with a maximum of 10 guests per van.
| Pickup Locations | Pickup Times |
|---|---|
| Phoenix Hotels | Varies |
| Scottsdale Hotels | Varies |
| Tempe Hotels | Varies |
After the tour, guests will be dropped off at the original pickup locations.
Itinerary
The tour begins with a scenic drive along the Apache Trail, winding through the rugged Sonoran Desert.
Guests then enjoy a lunch in the historic town of Tortilla Flat, known for its Old West atmosphere.
The highlight of the day is a 90-minute narrated cruise on the Dolly Steamboat, which takes them through dramatic slot canyons at Canyon Lake.
Depending on conditions, the tour may also include a short walk at Lost Dutchman State Park.
The Dolly Steamboat cruise offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the region, with knowledgeable guides providing commentary on the geology and history of the area.
After the cruise, guests are dropped off at their original pickup locations, concluding the day’s adventure.
Policies
Cancellation of the tour is permitted, with a full refund issued if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and children under 6 require a car seat provided by the guest.
Importantly, the tour operates in all weather conditions.
Guests should expect to follow the company’s policies throughout the experience. For example, no animals are allowed in the vans.
Pickup times may vary, so guests should check their emails, including the spam folder, the day before for specific details.
Scenic Drive
The scenic drive along the Apache Trail in the Sonoran Desert takes guests through a rugged, arid landscape dotted with towering saguaro cacti, rocky outcroppings, and sparse desert vegetation.
The winding road winds its way through the stark and beautiful desert, offering breathtaking vistas at every turn. Guests will marvel at the sheer vastness of the Sonoran Desert, which stretches out as far as the eye can see.
The drive provides a truly immersive experience, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the unique and captivating beauty of this desert region. Along the way, the tour guide will share fascinating insights about the history, geology, and ecology of the area, enhancing the overall experience.
Lunch and Cruise
After the scenic drive along the Apache Trail, guests sit down for a hearty lunch in the historic town of Tortilla Flat, a former mining settlement nestled amongst the rugged desert landscape.
This quaint town, with its wooden buildings and saloon-style restaurants, transports visitors back in time to the Old West.
Following their meal, guests board the iconic Dolly Steamboat for a 90-minute narrated cruise through the slot canyons of Canyon Lake.
As the boat glides across the serene waters, guests marvel at the towering red rock walls that rise up on either side, learning about the area’s geology and wildlife from the knowledgeable tour guide.
This unique cruise provides a memorable conclusion to the day’s adventure.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
Unfortunately, the tour does not offer an option to extend the duration. The itinerary and schedule are fixed, and the tour operator doesn’t provide any add-ons or customizations to extend the length of the excursion.
Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks on the Tour?
Yes, guests are welcome to bring their own snacks and drinks on the tour. The tour provider provides bottled water, but guests may wish to bring additional beverages or snacks to enjoy during the day.
How Much Time Is Allocated for the Lost Dutchman State Park Visit?
The tour includes a short walk at Lost Dutchman State Park, though the exact duration is not specified. The length of the stop depends on weather and other conditions during the tour.
Is There a Discount for Senior or Student Participants?
The tour doesn’t offer any discounts for senior or student participants. The price is the same for all adults, regardless of age or student status. Discounts may be available from other sources, but aren’t included as part of this specific tour package.
Can I Customize the Itinerary to Include Additional Stops?
While the tour operator generally provides a set itinerary, they may be able to accommodate additional stops or customizations if requested in advance. However, this would depend on availability and additional costs.
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Recap
The Apache Trail and Dolly Steamboat Van Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning Sonoran Desert and Canyon Lake.
Guests can expect a scenic drive, a relaxing cruise on the Dolly Steamboat, and a visit to the historic town of Tortilla Flat.
With transportation provided in 15-passenger vans, this tour is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the region.
