Mule Mountains, a mountain range located in Cochise County, Arizona (near Bisbee), are a mountain range in southern Arizona that runs north to south. These mountains, along with numerous other remote mountains in Arizona, New Mexico, and northern Mexico, create so-called "Sky Islands," which have a significant amount of biodiversity and endemic species of their plants and animals due to their lengthy isolation.
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| skuarua, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons |
They have long been recognized for their extensive mining history, which played a major role in shaping the Bisbee Arizona history known today.
The tallest point is Mount Ballard, reaching 7,500 feet. Over the years, copper, silver, gold, and lead were all mined from the mountains. Most notably, the Copper Queen Mine was once the largest copper deposit in the country, turning Bisbee into one of Arizona’s most prosperous towns. Even turquoise, renowned for its color, was dug from the Mule Mountains.
Before the days of mining, the mountains were covered in forest mainly Douglas firs and other conifers. As Bisbee prospered, the demand for timber led to the forests being cut down, bit by bit, providing wood for construction and fuel for the region’s smelting furnaces. While some recovery has occurred, the original forests never quite returned, and natural growth remains sparse compared to what once was.
Today, although the land is still technically owned by the Phelps Dodge Corporation, mining operations have ceased. Tourism now funds much of Bisbee and the Mule Mountains region. Visitors come from all over to tour the historic Copper Queen Mine, hike the trails, and experience the local culture and scenery.
As of 2024, access is better than ever; the SR 80 Mule Pass Tunnel safety project was completed, making travel through the mountains safer for all.
Things to Do in Bisbee and the Mule Mountains
If you’re planning a visit, there’s plenty to see and explore. The Copper Queen Mine offers guided tours where you can learn firsthand about Bisbee’s mining era. Numerous trails meander through the hills, ideal for hiking and spotting wildlife. Downtown Bisbee, with its art galleries, local cafes, and Victorian-era architecture, gives visitors a glimpse into the town’s colorful heritage.
For those interested in history and geology, the Bisbee Mining & Historical Museum provides insights into every era of the region’s development. Events like the Bisbee Blue Festival and local art walks offer something special throughout the year.
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Whether you’re interested in Bisbee Arizona history, geology, wildlife, or outdoor adventure, the Mule Mountains and Bisbee offer visitors a chance to experience the intersection of nature and history firsthand.
