Phoenix Ride to the Top-of-The-World and Tonto Forest

This Phoenix motorcycle city-escape is a great way to experience a diverse loop that includes a high desert lake and two historic mining towns. It's rideable virtually all year.

Start the ride on Hwy 87 heading north along the Salt River through the mountains towards Mezatsal Peak. Then head back down south along Hwy 188 through the Tonto National Forest to the town of Globe. From here carefully navigate to Hwy 60 along Top Oak St. to the Top-of-the-World and the town of Superior, then on along rivers peaks of the Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park.

Meet-up spot
Cindy’s Arizona Café, 124 E Mckellips Rd, Mesa, AZ, (480) 655-1349.

Lunch Stop
Libby’s El Rey Café, 999 N Broad St, Globe, AZ, (928) 425-2054. The crown jewel of Mexican restaurants in a town known for the tasty fare! Libby’s butter chips are a legendary decadence and entrees are delicious.

Scenery (5 out of 5)
Both the natural and historical scenery are spectacular. You will traverse panoramic vistas and carve through rugged mountains. The Roosevelt Lake Bridge is a highlight on the route.

You’ll experience a diverse loop that includes a high desert lake and historic mining towns. This route is rideable virtually all year.

Traffic (4 out of 5)
Can be heavy around Phoenix. Moderate to light elsewhere.

Difficulty (5 out of 5)
Navigate carefully as not to miss the short jaunt to Globe.

Road Conditions (4 out of 5)
All roads are generally both well paved and marked.

Attractions

1. Theodore Roosevelt Lake, AZ
, A picturesque and expansive 
high-desert lake.

2. Globe, AZ, 
A thriving, historic copper-mining 
town with all the modern 
conveniences.

3. The town of Superior, AZ, and 
Boyce Thompson Arboretum, 
Another historic mining town and the nearby desert-plant arboretum.

This article is published on EatSleepRIDE with the permission of RoadRUNNER Motorcycle Touring & Travel Magazine. It is not for sale or redistribution. RoadRUNNER is a bimonthly motorcycle touring magazine packed with exciting travel articles, splendid photography, maps and GPS files. Subscriptions are available online, or by calling (866) 343-7623.