by Mila Besich, Executive Director, Copper Corridor Economic Development Coalition
Discover by Chance, Return by Choice
Tucked away in the mountainous terrain of Eastern Pinal and Southern Gila Counties is Arizona’s Copper Corridor. This region is geographically diverse from the high deserts of Oracle and Globe to the riparian wonderlands along the Gila River near Kearny, Hayden and Winkelman. The beauty of the Sonoran Desert surrounds the entire region while tall pines, oak and juniper trees stand guard in the higher elevations. Quaint downtowns in Miami and Superior can take you back to the past with museums, boutiques and antique shops. The nine communities of the region provide ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, arts, history, dining and entertainment.
The region can provide a day, weekend or weeklong adventure. Unique lodging such as the newly restored Hotel Magma in Superior, charming bed and breakfasts, guest ranches and family owned hotels, RV Parks, and camping at Oracle State Park and in the national forests is available year round. For those seeking relaxation and relief of tensions there are many local massage therapists and aestheticians throughout the region who can provide that much needed respite after your adventure.
You can create your own custom adventure in the Copper Corridor. Hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, four wheeling, zip lining, can all be found throughout the Copper Corridor. Kayaking on the Gila River and hiking the Aravaipa Canyon are two of the most unique adventures in the region. There are hundreds of miles of trails and dirt roads to take your adventure. If you are aiming for cooler temperatures this summer the Pinal Mountains near Globe/Miami and Mt. Lemmon near Oracle allow you to escape the heat and enjoy adventures in the cool pines.
If you are looking for more high stakes fun, the San Carlos Apache Tribe operates two casinos in the region, the Apache Gold Casino Resort in San Carlos and the new Apache Sky Casino in Dudleyville. Both casinos often offer entertainment and gaming promotions.
Looking to enjoy some time on the golf course? The Town of Hayden has a public course that is a favorite amongst the locals. There is also the Cobre Valley Recreation Center that has golf and the Apache Gold Casino is home to an award winning golf course.
Attractions like the Biosphere II, Boyce Thompson Arboretum, Oracle State Park, Besh Ba Gowah provide access to nature, history and adventure within a guided experience. If you are seeking history, must-stops in the Copper Corridor include the Bob Jones Museum in Superior, Bullion Plaza Cultural Center and Museum in Miami, Gila County Historical Museum in Globe and the Oracle Historical Museum in Oracle which offer exhibits dedicated to the history of their communities, their people and heritage. Many also offer special guest speakers and events throughout the year. Art is everywhere in the region from the custom designed Ore Carts in Mammoth, Superior Winkelman and Oracle to the numerous art galleries in the region. The Cobre Valley Center for the Arts in downtown Globe offers seasonal live performances, art classes and exhibits.
The region is home to some of the most authentic, homemade Mexican cuisine. You will also find delicious burgers, Italian and Asian cuisine. There is something for everyone in the Copper Corridor, and if you discover by chance, you will return by choice.
You can find more information about this region by visiting the visitor centers hosted by the Superior Chamber of Commerce in Superior, the Globe-Miami Chamber of Commerce in Globe and the Oracle Women’s Network in Oracle. Each center can provide local information and updates on activities and events.
Superior Chamber of Commerce
165 Main Street
Caboose Visitor Cebter
830 Highway 60
Superior, AZ
520-689-0200
http://www.superiorarizonachamber.org/
Globe-Miami Chamber of Commerce
1360 N. Broad
Globe, AZ
(928) 425-4495
http://globemiamichamber.com/
Oracle Visitor Center
1470 W. American Ave
Oracle, AZ
(520) 896-3300
www.visitoracle.org
