The city of Apache Junction, located near the Superstition Mountains at the junction of historic Apache Trail and the U.S. 60, was incorporated on November 24, 1978. The city is rich in history, reflecting our state’s Western heritage. If you are curious about the history of Apache Junction and the Apache Trail, feel free to browse these resources. Stop in to the library to take a look through our Arizona History Collection, which includes a wealth of information about our state.
Tom Kollenborn Chronicles and Stories of the Superstitions
Tom Kollenborn was a noted author and historian of the Superstition Wilderness. His weekly column in the Apache Junction News was published on his blog by Apache Junction library staff after publication in the newspaper. The blog now holds an archive of many of his columns.
Apache Trail Circle Route, Tom Kollenborn
The Apache Trail begins and ends in Apache Junction, Arizona, but its circle route takes you through 120 miles of “deserts, mountains, by cliff dwellings, along lake shores, through old mining towns and through beautifully eroded canyons.” This tour can be your companion as you take this drive, which has been enjoyed since 1922.
Archaeological Parks and Monuments of Central Arizona, John McDonald
Arizona is rich in Native American history, including dwellings and artifacts. This guide focuses on the history of Native peoples in Arizona and also includes a guide to parks and monuments that may be of interest.
Filmmaking in Apache Junction
The Superstition Mountain area has long been of interest to filmmakers, with its dramatic views and romantic history. Movie stars such as Glenn Ford, Elvis Presley, John Wayne, and Tom Mix starred in films set in our area. This page contains some information about the history of filmmaking in Apache Junction.
Goldfield Ghost Town
Goldfield Ghost Town is a tourist destination with information about the historical town of Goldfield, Arizona. Goldfield was established in 1892 but abandoned in 1898 after the gold mines played out.
Local Newspaper: Apache Junction/Gold Canyon Independent
Stories of the Superstitions
Articles about the Superstition Mountain, Lost Dutchman Gold Mine, notable “Dutch Hunters” and Arizona figures, and more.
Superstition Mountain Museum
From their website – The Superstition Mountain Museum collects, preserves and displays the artifacts, history and folklore of the Superstition Mountains, Apache Junction and the surrounding region.
Treasure Maps
A gallery of image files including treasure maps provided to us by local historians.