Let’s go to Clifton, Arizona Located on the beautiful San Francisco River, tucked into a rugged mountain canyon, Clifton, Arizona, offers a wide variety of history, recreation, attractions, watchable wildlife and raw beauty. Some would say Clifton is magical. It’s like stepping back in time. Founded in 1873, the town was named after Henry Clifton, an early pioneer. Others argue that the town was a contraction of “Cliff- Town,” so aptly described. It was the former mining center of Greenlee County. Entering Clifton, you’ll see the remains of an old smelter. Continuing your drive, you will see the historic train station, which houses the new addition of the Art Depot and the historical Clifton Visitors Center. This massive structure was deeded to the city by the Southern Pacific Railway. Daily, sometimes many times a day, you will see and be stopped at railroad crossings watching the Eastern Arizona Railway and the Freeport McMoran train transporting needed sulfuric acid to the Morenci Mine. Beyond the Visitors Center, on the left, you will find the old Clifton Jail, a rock bastille blasted out of the side of the mountain built in 1878. Here, the infamous were incarcerated. It is one of the state’s famous jails. Adjacent to the jail is the old <strong>Copper</strong>head Locomotive No. 8, built in 1897. Farther on, you’ll find Chase Creek, once the epicenter of the town. In 1908, Chase Creek boomed for over 20 years. However, because of raging floods, this part of town was almost washed away. Because of many people loving this wonderful area, it now showcases art galleries, antique shops, a book and toy store, an apothecary with many different local gifts available a beautiful church, and a historical museum. With all the history, expand your visit to include photo ops of the watchable wildlife. If you are lucky, you may come across some of our magnificent big horn sheep, often seen lazily grazing on the side of the road or train station lawn, and many more activities , including rock hounding and hiking. Did I mention bird watching? There are four trails within the area. Contact the CLIFTON VISITORS CENTER (928- 865-3313 or P.O. Box 1415, Clifton AZ 85533) for more info. We will gladly help you plan your getaway for an unforgettable experience. Nestled high in the Pellocinno mountains, with the San Francisco river running by, you will find the North Clifton RV park. With 59 spaces, club house, Wi-Fi, showers, laundry, a new library walk, new playground equipment and picnic pavillions, pet friendly / pet area and beautiful scenery anywhere you look. Recreational activities abound. Birding trails, hiking, rock hounding, biking, river walk, watchable wildlife and if you are lucky you will see our famous bighorn sheep grazing on the grass in the park. Our park is in a quaint, quiet area, yet still in walking distance of Chase Creek, our historical district. Clifton, Az offers the rare blend of history, architecture, romance and adventure all wrapped up in the splendor of an Old West mining town. 928-292-0070 4 <strong>Gateway</strong> to the <strong>Copper</strong> <strong>Corridor</strong> <strong>Winter</strong> <strong>2024</strong>
<strong>Gateway</strong> to the <strong>Copper</strong> <strong>Corridor</strong> <strong>Winter</strong> <strong>2024</strong> 5