Safford, AZ

Safford, Arizona is a city located in Graham County, in the southeastern part of the state. The area that is now Safford was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Apache and Navajo peoples. The region attracted European settlers in the mid-19th century, when soldiers and miners arrived in the area.

The town of Safford itself was founded in 1874 by Mormon pioneers led by David King Udall. The settlers established a community known as "Central" at first, but later changed the name to Safford, in honor of Arizona's third territorial governor, Anson P.K. Safford. The town grew steadily, and by 1900, it had become an important center for ranching and agriculture.

One of the major industries in Safford's history has been copper mining. In the early 20th century, large-scale copper mining operations began in the nearby hills, bringing prosperity and growth to the town. The Phelps Dodge Corporation, a prominent mining company, established a copper smelter in Safford in 1913, which further stimulated the local economy. Copper mining continues to be a significant industry in the area to this day.

In the decades that followed, Safford faced both economic booms and busts, influenced by factors such as the fluctuating copper market and changes in agricultural practices. Despite these ups and downs, the city persevered and continued to develop. Today, Safford is a vibrant community with a diverse economy that includes mining, agriculture, and other industries.

In recent years, Safford has also become a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts due to its proximity to natural attractions such as the Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area and the Coronado National Forest. The city has a rich cultural heritage, with several historic buildings and sites that reflect its early days.

Overall, Safford, Arizona has a rich and varied history shaped by Native American presence, Mormon settlement, mining operations, and agricultural traditions. From its humble beginnings as a small pioneer community, it has grown into a thriving city that embraces its past while looking towards the future.

Mount Graham

A scenic mountain range offering hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Roper Lake State Park

A beautiful state park with a lake, picnic areas, and hiking trails.

Discovery Park

A science and natural history museum featuring exhibits about the local ecosystem and history.

Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area

A stunning river canyon with great opportunities for hiking, camping, and bird watching.

Black Hills Rockhound Area

A popular spot for rock hounding, where visitors can search for geodes, obsidian, and other minerals.

Safford Bowl

A family-friendly bowling alley with arcade games and a snack bar.

Freeport-McMoRan Copper and Gold Mine Tour

Offers guided tours of the open-pit copper mine, providing insights into the mining process.

Birding in Hot Wells Dunes Recreation Area

A bird watching area with diverse bird species.

Discovery Park Nature Trail

A short nature trail that offers a peaceful setting for walking and wildlife observation.

Graham County Historical Society Museum

A museum featuring exhibits on the local history and heritage of the area.

Safford, Arizona experiences a semi-arid climate. The area is known for its hot and dry summers, mild winters, and low average rainfall throughout the year.

Summers in Safford are characterized by high temperatures, with average highs in the range of 90 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit (32 to 38 degrees Celsius). In July and August, temperatures often exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius). Heatwaves are not uncommon during this time, and it is advisable to stay hydrated and seek shade to avoid heat-related illnesses.

Winters in Safford are mild and pleasant, with average high temperatures ranging from 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 21 degrees Celsius). While it rarely snows in Safford, there may be occasional dustings or light snowfall during the winter months.

Rainfall in Safford is relatively low throughout the year, with most precipitation occurring during the monsoon season in July and August. The area receives an average annual precipitation of around 10 to 12 inches (25 to 30 centimeters). Thunderstorms are common during the monsoon season, bringing brief heavy downpours, lightning, and occasional flash floods.

Overall, Safford, AZ experiences hot and dry summers, mild winters, and relatively low rainfall. It is important to take necessary precautions during the summer months to stay cool and hydrated, while being mindful of the potential for flash floods during the monsoon season.

Safford, AZ is a small city located in Graham County, Arizona. While the city itself is not divided into specific neighborhoods, there are several surrounding areas that contribute to the overall community. Here are a few notable areas near Safford:

Downtown Safford

This is the heart of the city and offers a mix of commercial and residential properties. It features historic buildings, local businesses, restaurants, and parks, making it a lively and vibrant area.

Thatcher

Located right next to Safford, Thatcher is a neighboring town but often considered part of the greater Safford community. It is primarily a residential area with a small-town feel and offers basic amenities like shops, schools, and parks. Thatcher is also home to Eastern Arizona College, a community college.

Pima

Another neighboring town near Safford is Pima. It is a small, primarily residential community with a rural atmosphere. Pima is known for its agricultural heritage and is surrounded by farmlands and beautiful landscapes. Despite its small size, Pima has some amenities such as schools, parks, and a few local businesses.

Swift Trail Junction

This area is located along the Swift Trail Scenic Byway, which leads to the scenic Mount Graham. It is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The area offers camping opportunities, hiking trails, picnic spots, and breathtaking views.

Graham County Fairgrounds

Although not specifically a neighborhood, the Graham County Fairgrounds host various events throughout the year, including the annual Graham County Fair. The fairgrounds provide a space for community gatherings, rodeos, agricultural exhibits, and other entertainment options.

These are just a few examples of the nearby areas that contribute to the overall community around Safford, AZ. Each of these areas has its own unique characteristics and attractions while being closely connected to the city of Safford itself.