4 Favorite Local Attractions You Can Drive to From Mesa, AZ

Take a drive in the impressive 2023 GMC Acadia Denali and stop at the favorite local attractions in and around Mesa, AZ, to discover endless adventures in the Sonoran Desert. Hike up Camelback Mountain for spectacular views of Phoenix and the Valley of the Sun, see the wild horses roaming free along the Salt River, look through the Hole-in-the-Rock, and explore the astounding 18-room Mystery Castle.

1. Camelback Mountain

The iconic Camelback Mountain is Phoenix’s geographic landmark and gets its name from its unique silhouette, which resembles the head and hump of a kneeling camel. The sandstone and granite mountain are considered one of the country’s best hiking destinations for experienced hikers.

Two extremely difficult hiking trails, the steep Echo Canyon and longer Cholla Trails in the Camelback Mountain Echo Canyon Recreation Area, run over uneven and rocky terrain to the 2,704 feet summit that provides unparalleled views of Phoenix and the Valley of the Sun below.

2. Wild Horses in the Tonto National Forest

The hundreds of wild horses roaming free along the banks of the Salt River in the Tonto National Forest are a fantastic sight to see. The best way to spot these magnificent creatures is by kayaking down the Salt River early in the morning from the Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch at 13020 North Bush Highway in Mesa through the heart of the Tonto National Forest.

It’s a leisurely paddle through a beautiful landscape filled with indigenous fauna and flora that offers glimpses of the herd of wild horses on the banks of the river that’s been here for more than a hundred years.

3. Hole-in-the-Rock and the White Pyramid Tomb

Papago Park, just minutes from downtown Phoenix at 625 N. Galvin Parkway, is known for its gigantic red butte formations. The park’s iconic Hole-in-the-Rock is one of the highest points in Phoenix and offers spectacular views, especially at sunset.

It’s just a short, easy hike with a 200 feet elevation gain to Hole-in-the-Rock. Peek through the hole to look over the park’s beautiful lagoons and unique white pyramid tomb of Arizona’s first governor, George W.P. Hunt. The tomb was built in 1931 for his wife, and he was buried there in 1934.

4. Mystery Castle

The mysterious and eccentric Boyce Luther Gulley built the extravagant 18-room Mystery Castle at 800 East Mineral Road in Phoenix in the 1930s and 1940s. He collected recycled materials and stones from the surrounding area to create this astounding folk art mansion with its 13 fireplaces and numerous parapets.

Boyce Gully passed away in 1945, and his daughter lived in the castle until she died in 2010. The strange but fantastic castle is open for tours from October through May from Thursday to Sunday between 11 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.

The region offers many unique and astonishing sights, and unforgettable experiences rarely found anywhere else. While you’re out and about, drop by Earnhardt Buick GMC today and check out the wide selection of top-quality used and pre-owned vehicles.

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