Arizona's Last Stagecoach Town Hides In The Superstition Mountains With Quirky Charm And Fun Souvenirs

Tourist towns are throughout the nation, with the majority boasting the newest technology in shows, lighting displays, and modern roller coasters. The common denominator for the majority of them, such as Branson, Myrtle Beach, and Gatlinburg, is the town's steady, stable population of citizens. All of these vacation spots have a healthy mix of locals and tourists ... except one.

Tortilla Flat, Arizona's tourist town, is different from all the others for two reasons. First, it isn't a town, but is an unincorporated community, with a nearly unbelievable population of 6. Another way this Arizona attraction is different is that it never tries to grow or expand. Instead of changing with the times, it holds strong to its roots. 

Travelers arriving in the tiny tourist town are greeted with a sight right out of an old Western storybook, complete with dusty streets and old-fashioned buildings. The Tortilla Flat Country Store from the 1940s serves up sweet treats, while the Superstition Saloon & Restaurant features unique saddle barstools. There is a mercantile shop along with a remodeled schoolhouse that doubles as a museum.

While this sparsely populated tourist stop doesn't offer the same appeal as traditional spring break destinations for families, the historical aspect allows it to be a contender. Katie Ellering, the self-appointed mayor, bought the site with the hope of getting local kids involved in the area's history, ensuring the legends and stories are passed to future generations. She works to ensure the town remains operational with the purpose of keeping the past alive for visitors to experience.

Despite its size, Tortilla Flat is an ideal tourist spot. Because of the beautiful landscape and twisty roads, the drive down the Apache Trail is considered one of the state's best motorcycle routes. Guests can also purchase a ticket for a variety of sightseeing cruises on Canyon Lake aboard the Dolly Steamboat. Throughout the 6-mile cruise, catch views of the local wildlife from the climate-controlled open decks. On the Game & Fish Bighorn Sheep Cruise, bald eagles and sheep are a few possible species you might spot. The scenic nature voyage is considered the most popular, lasting an hour and a half. The Twilight Dinner Cruise is another popular option, running for 2 hours. Additionally, the Astronomy Dinner Cruise is perfect for stargazers.

When you're in Tortilla Flat, why not belly up to the bar for a meal or try the saloon's prickly pear ice cream? The gift shop offers memorable and practical souvenirs such as clothing and hats, along with handmade, unique pieces. Pottery, knives, and necklaces are a few types of products available from local artists. Take advantage of all the unique photo props, from the social media stop consisting of three distinct hanging toilet seat decorations, to the storefronts and stagecoach stop. 

Learn about the town's history at the old red schoolhouse, currently being used for the Superstition Mountain – Lost Dutchman Museum. Telling the backstories on the legends and lore, the mountains' history, and the cultures of past citizens, the museum is an informative and entertaining stop.

There are many outdoor adventures to be had around the Flat Tortilla area. Tonto National Forest is about 2 hours away from the town. Surpassing 2.9 million acres, this wildlife refuge holds the title of the largest national forest in Arizona. Visitors can set up camp at one of the many designated areas, or go it alone in a dispersed campsite. For those bringing horses with them, there's a campsite for steeds as well. Just make sure to make reservations, as each site is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

No matter the level of hiking a person might want, it is sure to be found throughout the nearly 900 miles of the year-round National Forest System Trails. Mountain biking is also an option. Keep in mind that parking lots for the popular trails fill up quickly. The forest also provides plenty of landscapes perfect for rock climbing and cave exploration. Located within the perimeter of this massive forest is the Tonto Natural Bridge State Park, which houses the world's largest natural travertine bridge. Take the state park's waterfall trail to reach the cave and cascading water. 

A national forest this large doesn't just have one reservoir. In addition to Canyon Lake, there are five additional man-made major lakes throughout: Roosevelt, Saguaro, Horseshoe, Bartlett, and Apache. For an extra day of camping or hiking throughout the Tonto National Forest, consider the remote Apache Lake, which provides endless opportunities for water sports surrounded by incredible canyon walls.