Snowbowl Ski Area

One of best year round outdoor recreation areas in Arizona is just minutes from Flagstaff. Arizona Snowbowl has it all. Visitors will discover winter skiing, summer scenic sky rides, guided horseback
riding and alpine lodging. It has something for everyone anytime of the year.

Arizona Snowbowl is located in the San Francisco Peaks within the Coconino National Forest. The San Francisco Peaks are the highest mountains in Arizona , with the Humphrey’s Peak reaching 12,643 feet.
Arizona Snowbowl features a 2,300-foot vertical drop and a two-mile long run with an average of 260 inches of snow. Snowbowl has scenic slopes to entertain and challenge. There are 32 trails and four chairlifts to make the trip to Snowbowl fun. Winter visitors can choose from snow shoeing, skiing, cross-country skiing, snowboarding and skijoring.

Arizona Snowbowl is known for having the best learning terrain in the southwest. The Hart Prairie beginning area is ideal for those trying skiing out for the first time. There are group and private lessons available for all levels of expertise. Arizona Snowbowl wants to please their visitors, that’s why it offers so many services to its skiers. There is a full-service rental shop, a repair shop, several lodges, shuttle buses, a Terrain Park for snowboarders and skiers plus a ski school.

Ski prices start with an adult weekend/holiday all day 9:00 to 4:00 $37.00 or afternoon 12:00 to 4:00 $29.00, adult midweek all day 9:00 to 4:00 $37.00 or afternoon 12:00 to 4:00 $22.00, junior ages 8 to 12 all day 9:00 to 4:00 $20.00 or afternoon 12:00 to 4:00 $15.00, Senior ages 65 to 69 all day 9:00 to 4:00 and afternoon 12:00 to 4:00 $17.00 and both Seniors 70 and older and children seven and under ski free. There are season passes available. The best time to make your ski run is mid-December through mid-April. If
you would like more information on skiing call 520-779-1951 or to get a snow report call 520-779-4577.

During the summer, the Arizona Snowbowl reopens for sky rides to the top of the mountain. The sky rides are available from mid-June through mid-October. Visitors will take a ride up to 11,500 feet. Once at the
top, the 70-mile panoramic views are breathtaking. The view covers downtown Flagstaff and even includes the Grand Canyon. Besides taking in the sights, the Forest Service has an interpretive specialist available
to answer questions. The specialist will help to answer any biological or geological questions about the area.

The Agassiz Lodge is a terrific spot to rest and eat lunch either before or after the sky ride. There is a display area in the Lodge that offers information on the San Francisco Peaks. Live music can be heard on
weekends. The Lodge is open daily from 11:00 to 4:00. A sport shop is also located in the lower level under the Lodge.

The summertime sky rides are open everyday starting May 28th through September 6th from 10:00 to 4:00. The days do change after September 6th, to Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays only. The scenic sky rides cost $9.00 for adults, $6.50 for seniors 65 and older, $5.00 for children between 6 and 12 and children under the age of 5 ride free when accompanied by and adult. If you are interested in group rates, please call in advance. If you would like more information on skiing or sky rides call 520-779-1951 or to get a snow report call 520-779-4577. If a guided horseback ride is more your style, then Arizona Snowbowl has the ranch for you. The
MacDonalds Ranch, based out of Scottsdale, Arizona offers horseback riding adventures. Rides travel through the Ponderosa Pines in the Coconino National Forest with experienced wranglers leading the way.
The ranch is located at the Fort Valley Barn on Highway 180 and Snowbowl Road. Rides begin at 8:00 and continue till 5:00. Rides range in price from $24.00 for a one-hour ride to $36.00 for a two hour. The ranch does offer group, party and special event prices.

Hayrides are also available on the first and third Thursdays of the month. These hayrides are topped off with a delicious barbeque cookout amid the pines. Hayrides start at $10.00 per person with a limit of 10 people.
If you are interested in any of the outdoor activities at the MacDonalds Ranch, you may call 520-774-4481 for more information.

You can get to Arizona Snowbowl from Flagstaff by taking Highway 180 north out of town. After traveling for approximately 7 miles, turn right onto Snowbowl Road and follow the signs for 7 more miles to Arizona Snowbowl. If you are coming from Tucson or Phoenix, take Interstate 17 north up to Flagstaff. Then take U.S. Highway 180 north out of town for 7 miles. Once you come to Snowbowl Road turn and head on up to Arizona Snowbowl following the signs.

Sunset Crater Volcano

Over 900 years ago, Sunset Crater Volcano erupted sending ash over 800 square miles and lava down to the base of the crater leaving behind black rivers of hardened lava. The crater spouted great quantities of black ash, which completely engulfed the Indian pueblos, very much as Vesuvius covered Pompeii. Sunset Crater was the last volcano to erupt in Arizona . In 1892, John Wesley Powell, a Colorado River navigator gave the volcano cone its name. The name came from the way the volcano takes on a rosy shade right before sunset. The cone is dark in color at its base and gradually changes to a red, orange and yellow color leading up to its summit. It is a beautiful sight to behold.

Then in the 1930’s, Hollywood came to Sunset Crater Volcano and proposed using dynamite to create an avalanche for an upcoming movie. Local citizens protested and Sunset Crater became a National Monument. Today, visitors will see a cinder cone rising 1,000 feet above the ground. You can walk trails and stop at viewpoints to see this spectacular crater. The area abounds with fossils of various marine animals, evidence of the great sea that once covered this region. Two interesting volcanic features can be seen at Sunset Crater, they are squeeze-ups and hornitos.

Hiking is no longer allowed on the slopes of Sunset Crater because the footprints made created streaks, which ruin the beauty of the crater. It is important that individuals stay on the designated paths to protect this fragile resource. Hikers should come prepared wearing sturdy hiking shoes. Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument has a variety of trails for hikers. The Lava Flow Trail begins just one and a half miles east of the Visitor Center. It is a self-guided loop trail covering one mile. The
trail loops across a lava flow at the base of Sunset Crater. This hike explores volcanic formations. You will nee to allow about 45 minutes for this hike. The Lenox Crater Trail begins one mile east of the Visitor
Center. It provides a glimpse at the cinder cone. This trail is an easy climb, yet it requires almost an hour to travel round trip.

The Visitor Center should be the first stop when visiting Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument. A daily 45-minute program is offered at the center. There is a display showing the range of the volcanic field from Flagstaff to the Little Colorado. A hands-on exhibit allows visitors to see and feel volcanic rocks. The showcases represent a variety of insects and plant life, which live in the area around Sunset Crater. Programs are subject to change, so call in advance for exact times. Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument is open every day from 8:00 to 5:00 and during the summer 8:00 to 6:00, except on Christmas and New Year’s Day. The admission charge is $3.00 and individuals under 17 are free. The crater sometimes does close, due to snow in the wintertime. The best time to make a visit to Sunset Crater is during the spring or summer when the weather is mild. The area experiences windy conditions throughout the year. If you would like more information on the monument, you may call
520-526-0502 or 520-556-7042.

Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument is located 15 miles north of Flagstaff off of Highway 89. If you are coming from Flagstaff take U.S. Highway 89 north out of town, until you come to Sunset Crater-Wupatki Loop Road. Then take this road to the Crater. If you are coming from Tucson or Phoenix take Interstate 17 north out of town and head to Flagstaff. Once you are in Flagstaff travel north on U.S. Highway 180. Then when you come to Sunset Crater-Wupatki Loop Road turn and follow the signs to the Crater.

Both Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument and Wupatki National Monument are located close together. A 36 mile paved loop road connects the two monuments crossing a lava flow and rejoins U.S. Highway 89. It is a terrific experience, if you have time to take in both of these monuments.

Walnut Canyon National Monument

A hike down into Walnut Canyon National Monument will take you back in time. The canyon walls hold the ancient cliff dwellings of nearly a thousand years ago. Walnut Canyon National Monument is one of
the most well preserved cliff dwellings of the Sinagua people. Sinagua means “without water” in Spanish, which refers to their method of farming.

From 1120 to 1250, the Sinagua people chose this ideal spot to build their home, with the cool stream at the bottom of 400-foot gorge. Their dwellings are located under the natural overhangs of limestone and
sandstone along the canyon walls. The Sinagua’s used stones and mortar to close in the exposed sides of their dwellings. If you look carefully, you might find the handprints in the mud left behind by the builder. At one time, there were 300 rooms at Walnut Canyon. Today, visitors can see 24 rooms.

The Visitor Center has lots of information about the Sinagua people. There are displays and artifacts recounting their existence. A showcase holds a variety of flora found at the canyon. Many of the single-
family dwellings are visible from the Visitor Center. There are picnic facilities outside the Visitor Center. At the Visitor Center, the Island Trail down to the dwellings begins. The hour long Island Trail hike into the canyon is a must. The hike includes a 250-step downward path with handrails and several resting spots along the way. It is a hike offering wonderful natural views and glimpses of cliff dwellings. There is another easier hiking trail around the canyon rim. The Rim Trail takes you to two viewpoints and two dwellings. Along the trail, there are signs describing the plants and wildlife. Please allow 30 minutes for the half-mile loop Rim Trail. Both trails can be closed, if snow and ice are present.

The monument is open everyday from 8:00 to 6:00 June through August, 8:00 to 5:00 September through November, 9:00 to 5:00 March through April and the rest of the year, except Christmas and New Year’s Day. The Island Trail does close one hour before the Visitor Center closes. The admission is $3.00 per person and children under 17 are free. If you would like more information, you may call 520-526-3367.

Walnut Canyon National Monument is located seven miles east of Flagstaff, just off of Interstate 40. If you are coming from Phoenix or Tucson take Interstate 17 north to Flagstaff. Once you are in Flagstaff, take Interstate 40 east out of town. You will travel for approximately seven miles, until you come exit 204 and the signs for Walnut Canyon National Monument.

Ehrenburg Arizona

Ehrenburg is in Western Arizona . It is in La Paz County. The town is located in the Mohave Desert, east of the Kofa and Plomosa Mountains on Interstate 10. It is across the Colorado River from the town of Blythe, California. Phoenix is 142 miles to the east and Parker is 40 miles north.

Overview:
Ehrenburg is a desert community with the Colorado River on its west side and beautiful desert mountain views to the east. The southwest desert climate has a winter low temperature of 40 degrees and a summer high temperature of 104 degrees. Colorado River water fun, off-road trails, desert sand drags, beautiful desert scenery, mild winters and fishing have all drawn many visitors and residents alike. The town’s motto is “Come Grow With Us.”

Community Features:
Ehrenburg has several nearby outdoor activities. Visitors will want to head over the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge to see bighorn sheep and Arizona ’s only stand of native palms. Palm Canyon is a tight gorge in the Kofa Mountains south of town. These palms can be seen by taking a steep hike up Palm Canyon. The Imperial National Wildlife Refuge stretches 31 miles along the Colorado River. It is great for fishing, bird watching, canoeing and boating, but please check where these activities are permitted.

Events:

Founder’s Day Celebration October

History:

The town of Ehrenburg began as Mineral City in 1863. It was the site of William and Isaac Bradshaw’s ferry landing.
Mineral City was renamed Ehrenburg, in honor of Herman Ehrenburg in 1867. Ehrenburg was a surveyor and mining engineer. He had also become partners with Mike Goldwater, grandfather to the former Senator Barry Goldwater. They had built a mercantile store and warehouse in town. Ehrenburg lost his life in an ambush on his way to Dos Palmas, California in 1866. After his death, Goldwater requested the town’s name be changed to Ehrenburg. One year after his death, the town’s name was officially made Ehrenburg.
In 1870, many miners left the town of La Paz just north of Ehrenburg. They relocated in Ehrenburg, which gave the town a boost in population. Ehrenburg saw paddle wheel steamboats traveling up stream on the Colorado from the Gulf. The Colorado River was a main source of transportation into the interior of Arizona . Supplies where then passed on to places like Prescott and other mining communities. Soon, Ehrenburg became a major port along the river. It was also the place where many Californians headed to when crossing the Colorado River into Arizona , during the La Paz Gold Rush.
A school was established in 1872. Then, Ehrenburg really started to boom during the mid-1970’s with almost 500 people living in town. The town had two bakeries, a hotel, church, saloons, corrals and a blacksmith shop.
In the early 1900’s, Ehrenburg declined and eventually became a ghost town. However, the present day Ehrenburg is approximately two miles south of the mining ghost town of Ehrenburg. Visitors today can see the ruins of the river port town. Please remember not to disturb or take anything from the town. We want to preserve the past, as best we can.
Today, Ehrenburg is an unincorporated town that is experiencing economic growth from a manufacturing facility and trucking industry. Ehrenburg’s location, along the Colorado River offers visitors a variety of water sports ranging from fishing to speedboat racing.

Eagar Arizona

Eagar is in Eastern Arizona . It is in Apache County. The town sits on the edge of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest with the Little Colorado River flowing nearby. It is located on U.S. Highway 180, at the junction with U.S. Highway 60 and is 221 miles northeast of Phoenix. Eagar is the sister city to Springerville, located to its north. Both towns are in a mountain bowl called Round Valley.

Eagar is the gateway to a White Mountain adventure. Many people have journeyed to this high county destination to enjoy it natural and cultural qualities, whether in search of outdoor fun or relaxation. Today Eagar’s population is 4,560. The town sits at an elevation of 7,114 feet. The climate is cool all year round with a winter low temperature of 21 degrees and a summer high temperature of 90 degrees. Eagar enjoys experiencing the four seasons. The tradition of ranching and trading are still very much alive in this town.

You will find several unique attractions in and around Eagar. Little House Museum is special place. The museum displays many treasures from the town’s past. There is terrific collection of music boxes and a rare Violina Virtuoso. The museum is only 7 miles east of Eagar on the X Diamond Ranch. Round Valley Ensphere is the only high school domed football stadium in the United States.

The Ensphere is a multi-use facility covering 120,000 square feet and reaching 104 feet high. The dome is available in the mornings for walks and tours can be scheduled. Casa Malpais Indian Ruins is an archaeological park. The ruins are from the Mogollon Indian Culture, including the Sinagua, Anasazi, Hohokam and Mogollon Indians.

One outstanding outdoor activity is a scenic drive. The Coronado Trail Scenic Byway travels between the towns of Morenci and Springerville, along U.S. Highway 180 or 191. Francisco Vasques de Coronado first used the trail in 1420, during his search of the Seven Cities of Cibola. The drive passes by gorgeous landscapes and through dangerous switchbacks. It is one drive you will want to make.

Events:
Annual Eagar Daze August

History:
The purpose for creating the town of Eagar was to combine all the settlements in the area and place it under the Union’s name. The community began in 1887 with John Thomas Eagar, his brothers Joel and William and the Robertson family. The name Eagarville was chosen to honor the three brothers who helped found the community. It wasn’t until the establishment of the post office, that the town of was created in 1888. By 1892, the name was shorted to Eagar.

Eagar was incorporated in 1948. Today, the town continues the strong tradition of ranching and trading. Tourism is a popular industry because of the town’s location, along the northeast slopes of the White Mountains.

Douglas Attractions

The San Bernardino National Wildlife Refuge is in the bottom of a wide valley, just 16 miles east of Douglas. The wildlife refuge sits at an elevation between 3,720 and 3,920 feet and includes 140 acres. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service maintain the refuge. The refuge includes a portion of the headwaters of the Yaqui River. This river flows through the Chihuahua and eastern Sonora, Mexico.

The establishment of the refuge was in part to protect the endangered and threatened native fish of the Yaqui River. Black Draw flows through the refuge. This river has a riparian forest of Fremont cottonwood and black willow. The biggest portion of the refuge consists of desert scrub and mesquite bosque.

The water in the area caused a unique history to form. This history began back in the 1700’s, with the Jesuit priests. The priests came to the area for missionary purposes. Then in 1822, the San Bernardino Land Grant was established to encourage more settlers. Unfortunately, Apache Indian attacks forced the grant to be abandoned. Later on, in the mid-1800’s the area became a stopover for prisoners.

Then in 1887 John Slaughter bought the land grant. John Slaughter was a former Texas Ranger. Slaughter brought in a huge herd of Texas longhorns to start his ranch. He eventually built his ranch on the land. John Slaughter and his second wife branded their cattle with a Z. This brand was one of the first brands registered in Cochise County.

The Slaughters believed in using a gun and a rope when working with a herd. As time passed, word got out that no one should mess with his herds of cattle. In 1886, he ran for sheriff and won. He enforced the law in the county with a firm hand. In 1892, he retired from office and was an honorary deputy sheriff until he died in 1922. He was one of Arizona ’s cattle kings. Today you can visit the John Slaughter Ranch, which lies within the refuge.

This ranch is now a National Historic Landmark. The main house has been restored. Visitors will see family photos and furnishings. The ranch also has several outbuildings to see like a barn, icehouse, granary, commissary, car shed and washhouse.

You might also see an early 1900’s military outpost near the ranch. The outpost was once occupied during Mexican and Native Indian raids.
The San Bernardino National Wildlife Refuge offers a picnic area. The Slaughter Ranch Museum is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10:00 to 3:00 pm. The admission cost is $3.00 and children under 12 are free. For more information on the museum, call 520-558-2474. If you would like more information on this trip into the San Bernardino National Wildlife Refuge, you may call 520-364-2104.

You can get the San Bernardino National Wildlife Refuge from Douglas by taking 15th Street east out of town. The street later becomes Geronimo Trail. You will follow this road out to a gate with a “Z” on the front of it. The “Z” is the brand symbol for the Slaughter Ranch. Please do not attempt the drive under wet conditions.

President Coolidge signed the bill in 1924, making the most scenic section of the Chiricahua Mountains a national monument. The Chiricahua National Monument covers approximately 12,000 acres. The Chiricahua Mountain range is part of the Coronado National Forest. This land was once the home of the Cochise and Chiricahua Apache Indians. The area has the nickname “Standing-Up Rocks.” This is not surprising, because many of the rock formations found in the Chiricahua’s are quite impressive. The Chiricahuas are noted for the rock spires and boulders balancing on top of smaller rocks.

Geologists believe that the formations were made from volcanic eruptions. The theory is that twenty seven million years ago, a volcanic eruption shook the land around the Chiricahua National Monument. This eruption was one thousand times greater that the 1980 eruption of the Mount St. Helens. This eruption called the Turkey Creek Caldera eventually laid down two thousand feet of highly silicious ash and pumice. This mix of ash and pumice fused into a rock called rhyolitic tuff. After years of erosion, the unusual rocks that are in the monument were formed.

The Chiricahua National Monument is also filled wildlife and a variety of plants. You will find this spot great, if you are a birder. There are hummingbirds, Zone-tailed hawks and trogons in the area. The Chiricahua’s also have both Southwestern and Sierra Madrean flora and fauna.
The first stop to the national monument is the visitor center. Here you will learn about the history of the area. There is a slide show and exhibits detailing the geology, wildlife and the numerous sightseeing spots in the monument. The rangers are happy to answer questions and recommend hiking trails. The visitor center also offers books, videos and maps for purchase.

The visitor center is open everyday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. There is a $4.00 charge to cars on you way in to the center. If you have any questions about the monument, you may call 520-824-3560. Visitors can get an overview of the park by taking a drive. The Bonita Canyon Drive travels along a paved 6 mile winding road. The mountain road goes through oak-juniper and pine forests up to the top of the Chiricahua Mountains. Here, at the top, on Massai Point you can see the park, valleys and Cochise Head. The point also has a geology exhibit and a variety of hikes begin at this spot.

Hikers can see the beauty of the area by taking one of the many trails in the Chiricahua National Monument. There are nearly 100 miles of hiking trails to choose from during your visit. It is important to be prepared when embarking on a trail. The visitor center is a great place to make your hiking plans. Hikes are best made during the months of March to May or October to November.

Camping is available at the Chiricahua National Monument. The campgrounds can be found a half-mile from the visitor center. There are no showers or hook-ups at the grounds. Campers will be charged $6.00 a day.
The Chiricahua National Monument requires all dogs to be on leash. Dogs are not allowed on any of the trails, except the Faraway Trail. Horseback riding is permitted, but rangers would like to be aware of their presence.

You can get the Chiricahua National Monument from Willcox by taking State Highway 186 south, until it turns into State Highway 181. There are several entrances into the National Monument from State Highway 181. If you are coming from Douglas, you will take State Highway 191 north out of town. When you get near Sunizona, you will head east on State Highway 181 to the Chiricahuas. If you are coming from Tombstone or Bisbee, you will head south out of town on State Highway 80 to Douglas. Then you will head north on 191 through Douglas. When you get near Sunizona, you will head east on State Highway 181 to the Chiricahua’s.

This National Monument is a real treasure. You should plan quite a bit of time for your visit. There is so much to see and do, that you will want to make a return visit.

Douglas Arizona

Douglas is in Southern Arizona . It is in Cochise County. The town is located on State Highway 80 near the Mexican border. You can get to Douglas from Phoenix and Tucson by taking Interstate 10 south out of town. It is approximately 120 miles southwest of Tucson. After you pass through Tucson, you will find that Interstate 10 gradually heads east toward the New Mexico border. You will need to continue until you come to the town of Benson. Take State Highway 80 south, at Benson. You will travel on State Highway 80, until you come to Douglas. You can get to Douglas from Nogales by taking State Highway 82, northeast out of town. When you come to State Highway 80, turn left and head south down to Douglas.

Douglas is a great spot to learn about the Old West. There are many adventures that are close to this town. It is a small town that began as a mining town and then on to cattle ranching. Today Douglas has three manufacturing plants. These plants produce items ranging from clothing to auto parts. The location of Douglas, near the Mexican border, has made it an international commerce point. Agua Prieta is the name of the town across the border. These two towns use each other’s strengths to prosper. With colorful Mexico at its back door and a host of scenic areas only a few hours away, Douglas has much to offer the vacationer. The population of Douglas is 13,784. The town sits at an elevation of 3,990 feet. Douglas has a pleasant year-around climate. The town has low winter temperatures near 39 degrees and summer highs around 99 degrees.

There are many attractions in and around Douglas. The Gadsden Hotel is a historic and elegant place to see. This hotel holds many tales of the past. Agua Prieta is a small Mexican town full of shopping and restaurants. You won’t want to miss an opportunity to go across the border to take in the culture.
Douglas has a variety of outdoor spots for visitors to see during a trip. The Chiricahua Wilderness is in the Chiricahua mountain range in the Coronado National Forest. Visitors will have a choice of camping spots and hiking trails. The Chiricahua National Monument is a part of the Chiricahua Mountain Range. It is wonderful place to see. Here at the visitor center you will learn about the history of the mountain range. The San Bernardino National Wildlife Refuge is a special place to see beautiful plants and water life, along with the home of one of Arizona ’s great cattle barons. Douglas combines the charm of the Old West with the comforts and pleasures of today.

The town was originally named Black Water. In the beginning, the water was so bad that many wouldn’t look at it when taking a drink. In those days, water wasn’t easy to come by and the town’s people got use to it. Although, the city on the other side of the border from Douglas still holds the original name, Agua Prieta meaning black water.

In the 1880’s and 1900’s the land around Douglas was perfect for cattle. The open grassy valley became the spot for roundups. Ranchers would gather their cattle to brand and haul them out.

In the early 1900’s, the Phelps Dodge Company discovered the Bisbee smelter was too small. It was also inconveniently located. The company began looking for a new spot to locate its smelter. Douglas was founded in 1901 as a mining site for a copper smelter. The town was then renamed after Dr. James Douglas, the president of Copper Queen Consolidated. It was Douglas, who developed some mining techniques that improved the process. Dr. Douglas also built his own railroad, after the Santa Fe Railroad raised their rates. His El Paso and Southwestern railroad line traveled from Bisbee to El Paso, along with the line from Bisbee and Nacozari, both of which came right through Douglas.

As the town grew, a hospital and homes were built for the many employees at the smelter. During the town’s peak more than 375,000 tons of ore a day were brought to the smelter to be processed.
During the early beginning of Douglas, the town became know for its lawlessness. In the same year that the town was founded, in 1901, the Arizona Rangers were sent to Douglas to establish their headquarters. The rows of saloons in town were a problem and so were the cattle thieves. It took some time to get the town under control.

From 1911 to 1935 the airport in Douglas served as an army airfield by helping smooth over border troubles with Mexico. In 1928, the first international airport in the United States opened in Douglas. The runway was part in the United States and part in Mexico. Famous pilots flew into the airport, such as Amelia Earhart. Commercial flights discontinued several years ago, although private flights are welcome.

The smokestacks stopped in 1987, but Douglas continues to grow with the help of the sister city across the border, Agua Prieta. Both of the town’s have turned to manufacturing and tourism and continue to prosper.

The Gadsden Hotel was first built in 1907. The architect H.C. Trost created its design. The Gadsden is a elegant 5-story, 160 room hotel. Nothing was held back during its construction. The Gadsden became the best hotel in the west.
When the Gadsden Hotel was being built, the area around it was in battle with the Apaches and cattle rustlers. Arizona was not even a state yet. The Gadsden was named after James Gadsden, who negotiated the purchase of land that later became part of Arizona and New Mexico. The Gadsden Purchase took place in 1853 for a price of $10 million dollars.

The hotel was known to be the place for the wheeling and dealing of cattle and mining barons. It was also a home and place to rest for many cowboys and miners. The Saddle and Spur Saloon offered cattlemen an opportunity to place their brand on the wall.

There are tales about how Douglas residents climbed to the roof of the hotel to watch the Mexican Revolution being fought across the border. Another tale describes an impromptu ride up the marble stairs by Pancho Villa himself. You can even see the chipped surface on the seventh stair where this ride took place.

Then in 1927, a fire destroyed the original hotel. But, in 1928 the new owners the Mackeys rebuilt the hotel. The hotel was built as a replica of the original hotel. This time, however, steel and concrete were used instead of wood.
In 1988, the hotel had fallen into disrepair. In the same year, the Brekus’s family purchased the hotel. Their love and care of this building has made the hotel a success once again. Today the Gadsden Hotel is a National Historic Monument and nearly every Arizona Governor has stayed in the hotel. The hotel includes a lobby with a sweeping Italian marble staircase, Victorian chandelier, a gold leaf ceiling, marble columns, a Tiffany vaulted sky light and stain glass mural.

Guests in the hotel have a variety of services to chose from during their stay. The Gadsden offers wedding services, tours, convention facilities, banquet rooms, a dress shop, a beauty shop, suites, a dining room, a coffee shop and a tavern. Visitors can view over 200 registered cattle brands in the famous Saddle and Spurs Tavern.

The Gadsden Hotel is located in Douglas at 1046 G Avenue.

Agua Prieta is a town across the border from Douglas on the Mexican side. It is the sister town to Douglas. There are nearly 100,000 residents in Agua Prieta. These two towns use each other strengths to prosper. Douglas has three manufacturing plants and Agua Prieta has thirty-three. These plants make items like clothing, seatbelts and plastic injection molding. It is estimated that 80 percent of the personal income from Agua Prieta is spent in Douglas.

However, Agua Prieta does lure shoppers and sightseers. Visitors can walk across the border to see the Old Mexico town. Agua Prieta has quaint streets filled with shops, plazas and restaurants. The authentic Sonoran Mexican cuisine is delicious and modestly priced.

When making a visit to Agua Prieta, U.S. citizens should carry proof of citizenship. A valid U.S. passport is the best, because it serves both as photo identification and works well when using cashiers checks. A U.S. birth certificate that is a certified copy is also acceptable. Visitors should be aware that a driver’s license is not proof of citizenship. If you are planning on staying in Agua Prieta for more than 72 hours, you need to get a tarjeta de turista (a Mexican government tourist card). Please check with U.S. customs at the border, if you have any questions or concerns. The U.S. customs office is open 24 hours a day.

Your short walk across the border into Agua Prieta will prove to be a great day full of culture, shopping and delicious food.

Duncan Arizona

Duncan is in Eastern Arizona . It is in Greenlee County. The Gila River flows along the east side of town. The town is located near U.S. Highway 191 and State Highway 75. Duncan is just a few miles from the New Mexico border, 166 miles northeast of Tucson and 204 miles southeast of Phoenix.

Overview:
Duncan has many natural resources such as copper, zinc and contains the largest fire-agate field in the nation. Today Duncan has a population of 500. The town sits at an elevation of 3,535 feet. The climate is mild all year round with a winter low temperature of 31 degrees and a summer high temperature of 100 degrees.

Community Features:
One important attraction that you won’t want to skip is the Greenlee County Historical Museum, which is located at the west end of Chase Creek in Clifton. The museum is packed full of interesting memorabilia from the surrounding area. Visitors will discover Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, Apache warrior Geronimo and Ted De Grazia were all born nearby. The museum has artifacts that make the west come alive. It is a stop worth taking.

There are a couple of outdoor activities nearby. The Coronado Trail Scenic Byway travels between the towns of Morenci and Springerville, along U.S. Highway 180 or 191. Francisco Vasques de Coronado first used the trail in 1540, during his search for the Seven Cities of Cibola. The drive passes by gorgeous landscapes and through dangerous switchbacks. The Black Hills Rockhounding Area is north of Duncan off of U.S. Highway 191. The road off the highway is not regularly maintained. Therefore, visitors should come prepared. Many rockhounds have found fire agates in this area. It is an adventure.

History:

The land in and around where Duncan is today was originally called Purdy. As the town grew, it became a marketing center for farming and shipping point for cattle and ore. The town was a rail stop, along the Arizona and New Mexico Railroad. In the 1880’s, the town’s name was changed to Duncan.

There are a variety of opinions as to how the town’s name originated. One story says it was named after James Duncan, who was the director of the Arizona Copper Company. The other story refers to Duncan Smith, who owned the property on which the rail stop was located.
During Duncan’s early years, it was known as a “tough town.” The town was always protecting itself from attacking Apaches and notorious outlaws. It was believed that “Black Jack” Ketchem and his gang used Duncan as a stopover. “Black Jack” and his gang were known stagecoach robbers.

In 1880, Henry Clay Day homesteaded a piece of land just a few miles from Duncan. He named his ranch “The Lazy B.” Henry eventually turned the ranch over to his son Harry. Harry married Ada Mae Wilkey and they had three children, Sandra, Ann and Alan. Sandra went to college, became a lawyer in Phoenix and held the position of Arizona Senate Majority Leader. Sandra Day O’Connor went on to become the first woman appointed to the United States Supreme Court. The Lazy B Ranch is also known for having the largest fire-agate field in the nation.
The town of Duncan was incorporated in 1938.

Marana Arizona

Marana Arizona

Marana is in Southern Arizona . It is in Pima County. The town is located along Interstate 10 between Tucson and Phoenix. Tucson is one mile to the south of town.

Overview:
Marana has long been a transportation center for farming and ranching. It is a pleasant rural community, enjoying the benefits of being located near a large metropolitan city. The town sits at an elevation of 2,055 feet. The warm desert climate has a winter low temperature of 40 degrees and a summer high temperature of 100 degrees. The town’s goal is to be the best place in the state to live, work, play and learn.

Community Features:
Marana has several outdoor activities. Picacho Peak State Park is 15 miles to the north. Picacho Peak was an early landmark for those traveling the desert and the site of the Arizona ’s only Civil War battle. The park offers hiking, camping and picnicking. Twenty miles to the east is Catalina State Park. When the early Spaniards passed through the area, they thought the mountains took on a cathedral-like appearance. They named them La Iglesia, meaning, “church.” Today, the mountain range is called the Santa Catalina Mountains. The park offers camping, picnicking and birdwatching. There is also an equestrian center that is a staging place for trail riders and trailer parking.

History:

Marana appeared on the map in 1881, when the Southern Pacific Railroad arrived. The name Marana comes from the Spanish word, meaning “jungle” or “impassable tangle.” This was appropriate because railroad construction workers had to chop their way through the mesquite brush and catclaw to make way for the line.
During World War I, the population grew. Ranching and the railroad were the main contributors to prosperity. Marana established a school and a hospital at this same time.

In 1920, Edwin R. Post arrived in the area with a plan. He drilled wells into the desert floor and began pumping. The water was used for in an extensive irrigation canal system. The town boomed from 1920 to 1924 with cotton farming and for a short time the town was called Postvale.
Construction of the Marana Army Air Field began in 1942, just north of town. The base was used as an air transport basic training school. The highway was improved between Tucson and Phoenix to help in the military efforts. Then in 1945, the base was deactivated. During the Korean War, it was reopened. Today, it is used as a storage place for civilian planes.

In 1959, Titan Missile sites were established, as a part of the ballistic missile installations in and around Tucson. There are five sites near Marana.

The widening of Interstate 10 in 1961 had a big impact. Marana’s downtown business district had to be removed and relocated. This change ruined main street. Visitors upon arriving in town, will find that Marana does not have a true main street like so many other small towns.

In 1977, Marana was incorporated. Soon, the town began an aggressive annexation process. These annexations have encouraged new business growth.

Today, Marana has a variety of home developments. However, agriculture still plays a part in the town’s economy. The University of Arizona has even established an agricultural center. Tourism also is a part in the community. Three championship golf courses offer lots of outdoor fun. Visitors are close to many attractions and outdoor activities. Marana wants to be “The Biggest Little Town in America.”

Mammoth Arizona

Mammoth is in Southern Arizona . It is in Pinal County. The town is located in the broad San Pedro River Valley, with the Galiuro Mountains to the west and the Santa Catalina Mountains to the south, along State Highway 77. Mammoth is a part of a tri-community area, covering a 12-mile radius with the towns of Oracle and San Manuel. Tucson is 40 miles southwest and Phoenix is 140 miles northwest.

Overview:
Mammoth is a quiet town sprinkled with adobe buildings and a rich mining history. The town sits at an elevation of 2,353 feet. The warm desert climate has a winter low temperature of 40 degrees and a summer high temperature of 99 degrees. The community is surrounded by giant cactus, cholla and pastel painted mountains.

Community Features:
There is a terrific attraction just a few miles southwest of town. Biosphere 2 is world famous. It is a three-acre model of the earth’s ecosystem. The mission of Biosphere is to serve as a center for teaching, learning and research about the earth and its systems. There are tours offered daily.
Mammoth has several outdoor activities. The Oracle State Park and Center for Environmental Education is currently offering nature education programs for school aged children and is a wildlife refuge. The Arizona Trail passes through a seven-mile section of the park. This trail is available for hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking. If you are interested in learning more, call the Oracle State Park. The Pinal Pioneer Highway begins southwest of town on State Highway 79. The highway heads to the town of Florence passing by all kinds of desert fauna. There are plaques along the roadside with information on the various plants. It is a gorgeous drive.

Events:

Mexico’s Independence Day May
Chili/Salsa Cook Off October

History:
In 1883, Frank Schultz located the first mine in the area. The name Mammoth was given to the mine because it was believed that the gold ore deposits were of mammoth proportions.
The mines soon realized that is was impossible to work the ore at the mine site. A stamp mill had to be built to solve the problem and the best place for the mill was along the San Pedro River. The location of the stamp mill became known as Mammoth, named after the mine. In the beginning, the ore was hauled down to the mill by mule teams and wagons. Then in 1903, aerial trams were constructed. Bucket loads of ore were sent down from the mine to the mill.

Throughout the 1880’s, the town was one of the busiest mining camps in the country. The Mammoth post office was established in 1887.

The Mammoth Mine changed owners and work was shut down in 1895. During this time, the mine developed a new system of milling. When molybdenum was found in the tailings during 1936, the mine had a short-lived resurgence. The town was incorporated in 1958.

The discovery of the nearby San Manuel Mine brought Mammoth alive again. The San Manuel Mine opened in the 1950’s, bringing more jobs to the surrounding mining towns. Today, production of metal continues to play a large role in the town’s economy, along with ranching.

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