The Ghost towns of the San Pedro River - Motorized

Experience the fascinating history of Cochise County on this motorized tour through the ghost towns of Tombstone and Bisbee. Tour participants will learn how the discovery of silver at Goose Flats by Ed Schieffelin made Tombstone Arizona’s largest and rowdiest city, and how the discovery of copper by Jack Dunn at Apache Springs similarly transformed Bisbee into a thriving mining hub. The tour includes stops at three separate locations, each featuring short walks and hikes that allow participants to see the preserved remains of these historic towns. At Millville, visitors can view ancient Indian petroglyphs dating back to the fifteenth century, connecting modern travelers with the deep history of the region. Along the route, travelers also encounter the Arizona equivalent of the lovers’ lock bridge, the Battle of the Bulls site, the Clanton family ranch, and the cabin where the Brunckow murders took place.

Discover the colorful stories and historical context behind these remarkable locations with guidance from knowledgeable Southwest historians. On the way back to Bisbee, the tour makes a stop at the Ed Schieffelin Monument, where participants learn the true story of the man who founded the Town Too Tough To Die. The tour goes beyond the familiar tales of the Earp brothers and the OK Corral gunfight, offering an in-depth look at the lives, adventures, and sometimes dangerous pursuits of the people who shaped these towns. This immersive experience combines history, legend, and scenic exploration, allowing visitors to understand the cultural and economic forces that created these unique mining towns while enjoying the preserved landscapes and historic sites of Cochise County.