Let’s enjoy another driving loop through Wickenburg and Bagdad and then back to Wickenburg for lunch at Anita’s Cocina. This drive will be on Saturday, July 18th. From our meeting point to lunch in Wickenburg the approximate driving distance is 179 miles. Whether you are a first timer or not, this is always a very fun drive.

The Wickenburg – Bagdad loop has three great roads with lots of curves. From our meeting point in North Phoenix at Tramonto Market Place, we will travel westward on AZ-74 to US-60 and US-93 for our first break just north of Wickenburg at the Vulture Mine Rd Mobil station.

After our break is where the fun begins as we continue north on US-93 to AZ-89, which takes us on a thrilling drive along the edges of Granite Mountain. Once we reach Kirkland Junction that will bring us to AZ-15, the second leg on the loop which leads us westward to AZ-96, another thrilling road, and into Bagdad at Bashas’ for our second break. After the break we will then double back on AZ-96 towards AZ-97 for the third leg of the loop.

For those unfamiliar with AZ-97, it is dubbed “Roller Coaster” for its numerous dips, inclines, and tight turns over its 11-mile stretch. AZ-97 is a very unique road and easily earns its nickname. Once back on AZ-93 we will head back towards Wickenburg for lunch at Anita’s Cocina. They are always a great host and everyone will order off the menu and pay your own bill at the restaurant. After lunch everyone will be on their own for a leisurely drive back home.

Meeting location: Tramonto Marketplace
                                34870 N North Valley Parkway
                                Phoenix, Arizona 85086
                                (North of Carefree Hwy, just east of I-17)
                     Park in the lot west of First Watch restaurant.

Meeting time: 8:00 AM