What RV Renters Know
- Besh-Ba-Gowah Archaeological Park: 1,300-year-old Salado pueblo, free museum, less-visited than Tuzigoot or Montezuma Castle
- Historic downtown with century-old commercial buildings and genuine Western character
- Eastern terminus of the Apache Trail — drive west to Apache Lake and Roosevelt Lake
- San Carlos Lake (45 miles east): bass fishing capital of Arizona, on the Apache Reservation
- Tonto Natural Bridge State Park (45 miles northwest): travertine bridge day trip
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Salado ruins at Besh-Ba-Gowah?
Besh-Ba-Gowah (Apache for 'place of metal') was a Salado culture settlement occupied from 1225–1400 AD with over 200 rooms. The museum displays Salado pottery, jewelry, and burial artifacts recovered from the site. The ruin walk takes 30–45 minutes. It receives a fraction of the visitors that Montezuma Castle gets despite similar preservation — one of Arizona's best underrated archaeological sites.
Is Globe a good base for the Apache Trail?
Yes — Globe is the eastern starting point for the Apache Trail scenic route (SR-88). From Globe, you can drive west to Tonto National Monument (cliff dwellings above Roosevelt Lake), through Fish Creek Canyon, past Tortilla Flat, and eventually to Apache Junction. This direction avoids the most treacherous section of Fish Creek Hill if you're in a large vehicle — the grade is easier westbound.
What fishing is available near Globe?
San Carlos Lake on the San Carlos Apache Reservation is considered one of the best largemouth bass lakes in the Southwest, consistently producing trophy fish. A tribal recreation permit is required (available online or at reservation businesses). Fishing is generally open year-round. Roosevelt Lake, west of Globe on the Apache Trail, also has good bass, catfish, and crappie fishing in a dramatic canyon lake setting.