Morenci (Arizona)

Morenci is a copper-mining town in the Mogollon Rim in Eastern Arizona.

Understand
Morenci and neighboring Clifton share a common history of copper mining, and are today commonly referred to as the Clifton-Morenci district. Copper was discovered in Morenci in 1872 and mining began the following year. Both towns have had a cyclical history of booms and busts, and today downtown Clifton is nearly abandoned, with most economic activity centered in Morenci. The area's largest employer is Freeport-McMoRan.

Geronimo is said to have been born near the current site of Clifton, and well-known southwest impressionist artist Ettore DeGrazia was born in Morenci.

Get in
The only direct access to Morenci and Clifton is via US Highway 191, aka the Coronado Trail, considered to be the least-traveled federal highway in the US. The closest town of any size is Safford, which is about a 45-minute drive to the southeast.

Get around
There is no public transportation, so it essential to have your own car.

Eat
Morenci and Clifton are not known for haute cuisine, although it is possible to get a decent meal here.



Sleep
There are just a few options in town for accommodation.