Arizona’s Route 60 is a dream ride for motorcycle enthusiasts, offering a picturesque journey through the state’s breathtaking desert landscape. Starting from Gilbert, this route leads riders through wide-open spaces, rugged mountains, and unique desert scenery that captures the heart of the American Southwest. The allure of Route 60 lies not only in its striking natural beauty but also in the sense of freedom and adventure it evokes, making it a favorite among motorcyclists.
Riders on Route 60 are treated to a blend of smooth highways and scenic vistas, where the vast desert meets the dramatic rise of the mountains. Along the way, key stops such as the Superstition Mountains and the historic town of Globe provide opportunities to stretch your legs and explore Arizona’s rich history and landscape. With its gentle curves and expansive views, Route 60 offers a perfect balance of relaxation and thrill for seasoned and novice riders.
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Starting in Gilbert: The Gateway to Arizona’s Desert
Gilbert is the ideal starting point for a journey along Route 60, offering a blend of suburban comfort and easy access to Arizona’s vast desert. Riders can fuel up and grab supplies before heading east on Route 60, which quickly transforms from urban landscapes into open desert. As the city gives way to wide expanses of cactus-filled terrain, the true beauty of Arizona’s desert begins to unfold.
The smooth highways leading out of Gilbert offer a perfect warm-up for the more scenic, winding sections of Route 60. Early morning starts are highly recommended to avoid the midday heat, as well as to witness the stunning desert sunrise, which casts warm hues across the landscape, making the ride even more enchanting.
The Beauty of Superstition Mountains
One of the first landmarks riders will encounter along Route 60 is the Superstition Mountains, a jagged and mysterious range that looms over the desert. These mountains, steeped in legend and folklore, provide a dramatic backdrop to the early portion of the journey. The views of the Superstitions from Route 60 are unforgettable, with rugged cliffs and deep canyons that seem to glow in the morning light.
For those looking to stretch their legs, a stop at Lost Dutchman State Park offers opportunities to hike short trails or simply take in the beauty of the mountains up close. The contrast between the sharp, towering peaks and the flat desert floor creates a visually striking scene that riders will carry with them throughout the journey.
Riding Through Arizona’s Mining Towns
As Route 60 continues east, riders will pass through several historic mining towns, each with its own unique charm and character. Places like Superior and Miami offer a glimpse into Arizona’s rich mining history, with old buildings, quirky roadside attractions, and small diners perfect for a quick meal or rest stop. The winding roads through these towns add to the allure of the ride, providing both scenic beauty and historical interest.
Superior, in particular, is known for its picturesque surroundings, with towering cliffs and steep mountainsides framing the small town. Riding through these historic towns is like stepping back in time, where the past meets the present along this well-traveled route.
The Spectacular Desert Vistas of Tonto National Forest
Continuing along Route 60, riders will soon find themselves entering the vast Tonto National Forest, one of the largest national forests in the United States. The scenery here is breathtaking, with saguaro-studded hills, expansive desert valleys, and distant mountain ranges stretching as far as the eye can see. The ride through Tonto National Forest offers some of the most spectacular views on Route 60, with winding roads that provide both excitement and panoramic vistas.
Riders should take advantage of the many scenic overlooks along this stretch of road to fully appreciate the desert’s beauty. The combination of winding roads and dramatic landscapes makes this section of Route 60 a favorite among motorcyclists who crave both adventure and scenic grandeur.
Globe: A Historic Stop Along Route 60
The town of Globe marks an important stop along Route 60, offering a mix of history, culture, and small-town charm. Globe is known for its historic downtown, where riders can take a break and explore shops, cafes, and museums that highlight the area’s mining heritage. The town is also home to several parks and scenic viewpoints, providing opportunities for relaxation before continuing the journey.
Globe’s rich history and welcoming atmosphere make it an ideal place for a longer stop. Riders can explore the Old Dominion Mine Park or simply enjoy the slower pace of this historic town before getting back on the road for the next leg of the journey.
Weather and Safety Tips for Desert Riding
Riding through Arizona’s desert offers incredible beauty, but it also requires careful preparation, especially when it comes to weather and safety. The desert heat can be extreme, particularly during the summer months, so riders should plan their trip for early mornings or late afternoons to avoid the harshest temperatures. Staying hydrated is essential, as is wearing appropriate gear to protect against both the sun and the heat. In the unfortunate event of an accident, it’s important for riders to know where to seek help for injured motorcycle riders in Gilbert to get the support they need.
Additionally, it’s important to keep an eye on road conditions. While Route 60 is well-maintained, weather changes or roadwork can sometimes affect sections of the road. Riders should be mindful of wildlife, particularly in more remote stretches of the desert, as animals such as deer and coyotes may cross the road unexpectedly.
The Joy of Open Desert Roads
The true allure of Route 60 lies in the sense of freedom that comes with riding through Arizona’s wide-open desert roads. The vast expanse of desert stretching out in all directions gives riders a feeling of limitless adventure, where the road seems to go on forever, and the sky is an endless, brilliant blue. For motorcyclists, this feeling of open space and solitude is a major draw, providing both excitement and peace.
As riders journey along Route 60, the combination of natural beauty, historical interest, and thrilling roads makes this route one of Arizona’s most beloved motorcycle rides. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a deeper connection with the desert, Route 60 offers it.
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