About Wickenburg
The “Dude Ranch Capital of the World” with an estimated population of about 6,000, Wickenburg is located about 58 miles northwest of the Phoenix area. Wickenburg abounds in natural beauty where the Bradshaw Mountains merge with the northern edge of the Sonoran Desert. It resides along the Hassayampa River where for centuries before, the Yavapai Indians used the fertile grounds to grow agricultural crops. Depending upon the source, Hassayampa means “the river that flows upside down” or stems from the Yavapai name “Haseyamo” meaning “following the water as far as it goes”. Both seem to fit since sometimes the flowing water can be seen and sometimes not because portions flow underground.

Wickenburg was named for Henry Wickenburg who was lured to the area looking for gold in the 1860s. His dream was realized by his discovery of the Vulture Mine where over $30 million in gold was extracted. The foothills around Wickenburg are dotted with mine ruins that stand as tribute to times past. Ranchers and farmers followed the miners and prospectors and the ranching tradition continues today where guest ranches are a popular attraction among tourists who enjoy the clean air, wide-open spaces and the remaining scenic charm of the old west.

The western ambiance of Wickenburg Az thrives today where the annual Gold Rush Days and the DC Ride celebrate the traditions of its earlier days. If your vacation getaway involves golf, you’ll love the Rancho de Los Caballeros Golf Club & Guest Ranch Resort a traditional championship design which has been rated one of the top 10 resort courses in Arizona by Golf Digest.

Wickenburg Attractions

There are many attractions in and nearby Wickenburg including the Desert Caballeros Western Museum. The 600 seat Del E. Webb Center for the Performing Arts features concerts, theatre, entertainment and special events.

The Nature Conservancy – Hassayampa River Preserve. Although the river flows mostly underground, the crystal clear waters emerge within the Preserve where some of the most spectacular wildlife can be viewed.

The Joshua Tree Forest about 30 miles northeast of Wickenburg is home to one of the largest remaining Joshua Tree stands.

While in Wickenburg, visit the Vulture Mine, walk historic old town, see the old 761 Santa Fe Railroad Steam Locomotive and experience the “Jail Tree”, a 200 year-old mesquite tree that once served as Wickenburg’s jail where those that violated the law were chained to the tree. For more info, visit the Wickenburg Chamber of Commerce website.

If you are after western charm, find it “ Out Wickenburg Way”