If you are planning a vacation in the southeastern part of the state, Graham County, Arizona, is the place to go. The population of this area is about 37,220, making it the third least populous county in Arizona. The county seat is Safford. You can also visit the nearby Saguaro National Park. There are plenty of things to do in the county.
The city of Safford is the county seat and has a population of under 10,000. This scenic town is known for its natural environment and outdoor life. The town was founded during the late nineteenth century in Pima territory and was incorporated in 1901. It was named after Mount Graham, a 10,516 foot peak that rises in the region. The town’s economy is centered around mining, quarrying, and oil extraction.
The Golden sandstone city of Safford is located in Graham County. Visitors can explore the Old West Highway to explore its historic sites. This route was once home to dangerous gunfighters, Apache warriors, and even Billy the Kid. The road is home to unrecoverable gold, lost civilizations, and the first murder of the famous outlaw. This is the reason why many people visit Graham County to enjoy the unique experience of the Old West.
You can enjoy nature by hiking or mountain biking in this area. A guided tour of Downtown Safford highlights the 1898-built Safford City Hall and the county courthouse. The Old West Highway also features historical sites, including the Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area, which is home to over 140 species of birds. If you love the outdoors, you can take a float trip down the Gila River or a fishing trip on Riggs Lake. The Roper Lake State Park has natural mineral springs.
A float trip on the Gila River offers breathtaking views of the valley. The Mount Graham International Observatory is also located here. A float trip along the river will allow you to experience the majesty of nature. If you’re interested in history, you can explore the Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area and a nearby canyon. Other interesting places to see in the county include the beautiful Roper Lake State Park.
If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure, make sure to visit the Old West Highway in Graham County. This section of the state is home to the highest peak in the Pinaleno Mountains. There are a number of other scenic spots in the area, including Mt. Graham International Observatory. Visiting the observatory will allow you to experience some great views of the surrounding mountains.
You can explore the area’s history by taking a walking tour of Downtown Safford. You can see the historic Safford courthouse, which was built in 1898. You can also visit the many historic sites along the Old West Highway. This stretch of land was once home to Apache warriors and dangerous gunfighters. Today, you can visit the site of Billy the Kid’s first murder.
Besides the historical attractions, the local area is also home to some incredible wildlife. The Mount Graham International Observatory is located at the top of the Pinaleno Mountains. Afterwards, you can visit the Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area, which is home to over 140 species of birds. Other things to do in the region include float trips on the Gila River and fishing in Riggs Lake. At the Roper Lake State Park, you can relax by the natural mineral springs.
There are plenty of activities to keep the entire family busy. The county is home to the Large Binocular Telescope on the summit ridge of the Pinaleno Mountains. Another great activity is the Safford SalsaFest, which is a two-day event with family-friendly entertainment. During the SalsaFest, the community celebrates its Mexican heritage by hosting a parade and a variety of events.