Five Days in Arizona’s Historic Copper Corridor

Go off the beaten path in Arizona. Only an hour away from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, Copper Corridor beckons with miles of uncrowded trails, museums and mining heritage, and so much more.

PREPARED BY:

Whitney James

Adventurer & Creator

Five Days in Arizona’s Historic Copper Corridor

Start / End

Superior, Arizona – Oracle, Arizona

States Covered

AZ

STATES COVERED

Arizona

TOTAL DISTANCE

113 miles (181.9 kilometers)

SUGGESTED DAYS

5 SUGGESTED SEASON

Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

#ThisIsMyRoute

Overview

Copper Corridor is full of history, science, art, and adventure. Tucked in between some of the most rugged mountains in Arizona, it is also home to nine unique communities that welcome visitors with open arms. Whether your ideal week away is full of quiet hikes, exploring the unique mining heritage of the American West, or exciting OHV trails, here is our recommendation for making the most out of your time in Copper Corridor!

Preparation

The communities within Copper Corridor hover at around 3,500 feet (1,066.8 meters)elevation. That means that although this scenic region is located in the Southwest, it is roughly threetimes higher (and therefore cooler) than nearby Phoenix! It is best to still come prepared for lots ofsun. Pack your sunscreen, breathable layers offering sun protection, and adequate water during anyouting. You’ll also likely want to bring a pair of hiking boots and binoculars on this journey. As always,remember to followLeave No Trace Principleswhile exploring the great outdoors.

Five Days in Arizona’s Historic Copper Corridor

DAY 1: Arrive and Hike the Sonoran Desert in Superior

On your first day in Copper Corridor, you’ll arrive at the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, or via road trip from a nearby destination such as Grand Canyon National Park or Saguaro National Park. Get your bearings in the bustling community of Superior. The first of nine communities to greet you in Copper Corridor, Superior is a great launch pad for adventure.

Stretch out your legs on the nearby trail system, Legends of Superior Trail, referred to by the locals as “LOST.” This 11.65-mile (18.4 kilometer) pathway takes hikers and bikers on a tour of the Sonoran Desert through the rugged Queen Creek Canyon. You’ll pass through a lush riparian forest, a historic townsite called Pinal, and much more—with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains along the way.

Afterward, treat yourself to a hearty dinner at one of Superior’s eateries. Their selection of homemade-style restaurants and authentic Mexican cuisine is a great preview of what’s to come in the days ahead in Copper Corridor! Tonight you and your traveling companions may also decide to do a wine tasting in town to sample the only locally-sourced grapes in the region.

Overnight at one of the numerous lodging options in Superior, or the nearby community of Globe-Miami.

DAY 2: Fly In a Glider and Go Back in Time in Globe-Miami

Prepare for some excitement on day two in Copper Corridor! Have a light breakfast before making your way to the airstrip. You’ll be taking to the skies in an engine-free glider with Superior Soaring. This once-in-a-lifetime experience offers unencumbered views of Copper Corridor’s rugged peaks, remote canyons, and tree-lined riverbeds from above. Whether it’s your first ride in a glider or you’re a trained pilot, there is no topping this unique Copper Corridor activity.

Cure rumbling stomachs with lunch in Globe-Miami, a short drive to the east. Then, go back in time at one of Globe-Miami’s two museums. The Bullion Plaza Cultural Center and Museum features a variety of displays, from the diverse cultural groups who inhabited the area over time to some of Arizona’s pioneering ranchers, and much more. Besh Ba Gowah Archaeological Park and Museum uncover an even longer perspective—the pueblo village of the Salado people found here dates back to 1225 CE. If time allows, a leisurely hike at nearby Round Mountain Hiking Park will land both your feet squarely back on the ground and in the present day.

That evening, enjoy another local meal before a restful night in your lodging of choice.

DAY 3: Discover the Mescal Mountains and the Middle of Copper Corridor

It’s time to head south on day three in Copper Corridor. Today, you’ll finally see for yourself how the region got its name! Pull off at the viewpoint of the Ray Mine in Kearny. One of the largest copper reserves in the United States, this mine was founded in 1880 and is still in operation today.

Then, carry on to your preferred activity. The extensive Mescal Mountains Off-Highway Vehicle Area in Kearny is a playground for OHV users of all abilities. Nearby, Winkelman is a haven for birdlife (and therefore bird watchers), thanks to the proximity of the lush Gila River that flows downstream from San Carlos Lake. Blackhawk, Great Blue Herons, Belted Kingfishers, and many more species are commonly seen along its banks.

Hayden and Kearny have a variety of restaurants that serve hot meals for hungry travelers, keeping you well-fueled for your day in this region of Copper Corridor. Stay the night in Kearny where a number of locally-owned accommodations provide a cozy spot to rest your head.

DAY 4: Zipline Adventure and Art and Science in Oracle

Mosey into the artistic and scientific heart of Copper Corridor on day four. You’ll be spending time in the Oracle region at several can’t-miss destinations: Biosphere 2 Science Museum and Triangle L Art Ranch. Start at Biosphere 2 Science Museum—the world’s largest controlled scientific environment. Here in giant greenhouses, researchers study coral reef restoration, tropical rainforests, and much more. A giant swath of glass-walled buildings with a backdrop of the surrounding mountains, it really is an out-of-this-world experience!

Alternatively, head to the Triangle L Art Ranch Sculpture Park and Barn Gallery. This outdoor walkable art gallery features a huge assortment of sculptures from an upcycled wine bottle installment to a thought-provoking labyrinth. Simply follow the Magic Path to be transported into the imaginations of a number of different artists.

That afternoon, pick up the pace! Arizona Zipline Adventure lets visitors zoom above the desert floor on a number of different tours. They even have a dual line on their longest run, which means you can zip alongside your friend or family member for an especially memorable ride.

Overnight at one of the bed and breakfasts, motels, or ranches in Mammoth, San Manuel, or Oracle on night number four before your final day in Copper Corridor.

DAY 5: Picnic in a Lavender Farm and Hike the Arizona Trail

On your fifth and final day in Copper Corridor, visit the Life Under the Oaks Lavender Farm in Oracle. This beautiful homestead welcomes the public to walk among rows of lavender, shop homemade products, meet the farm animals, and participate in a number of monthly events and workshops. They even offer picnic baskets for those who want to spend a whole afternoon enjoying the property. That afternoon, work off your lavender treats by logging some miles on the Arizona Trail. This 800-mile (1,300-kilometer) trail runs all the way from Mexico to Utah and passes conveniently between Oracle and San Manuel. Whether you prefer to hike or mountain bike, you could travel as far as you desire to finish out an epic five days in Copper Corridor.