By:
Submission
Roosevelt Lake Roosevelt Lake is a beautiful body of water set in the desert. There is a migratory waterfowl (including Canada geese) and raptors (including bald eagles and osprey) that use the lake during the fall and winter. Small isolated islands and coves offer outstanding opportunities for camping and relaxing in the unique Sonoran Desert. Both Non-Motorized and Motorized boats are allowed at Roosevelt for maximum enjoyment of the water.
From Mesa: Take State Hwy. 87 (Beeline Highway) north for about 60 miles to the junction of State Hwy. Turn right and follow State Hwy. 188 for 26 miles to the lake. The entire route is paved. From Globe area: Take State Hwy. 188 northwest 27 miles to the lake. The entire route is paved.
September 2019 I stopped here before heading south on the Apache Trail. It had been 10 years since the last time I visited. There's a restroom on site. Well, it's more like an outhouse but it's better than nothing. Make sure to use it if you need to go. Otherwise you'll have to wait until Tortilla Flats 45 min to an hour away. There's scenic views of the dam and a nice place to take it easy before heading back on the road.
Day trip turned out to be a fantastic experience. Got to see water releasing into Salt River.
The view of the dam (downstream) is superb. Access to the viewing area intriguing. It Sparks a desire to explore further and the trail does go on down the Salt River carved into the side of the ravine. It is a gravel Road with Corners that undulate in and out of the ravine wall. Most of the road has enough room for two vehicles to pass in opposite directions. Take care to stay on your side of the road on the blind corners.
This is a great view from the top of the dam at 350 feet. It's amazing the dam was built in 1911. Unfortunately, they overlaid the masonry walls in 1996 with ...concrete which makes it look like any other dam now.
