Patagonia & Sonoita, Arizona

Patagonia is a quaint hamlet that rests between the majestic Santa Rita Mountains and the beautiful Patagonia Mountains at the intersection of Harshaw and Sonoita Creeks. Set among rich foothills, valleys and towering trees, Patagonia has been called the “Jewel of the Sonoita Valley because of its natural beauty and vitality.

Since early days, Patagonia’s oak grasslands, at over 4,000 feet have provided excellent climate and terrain for cattle ranching, and the Patagonia Mountains, filled with rich ore bodies, have attracted miners. Today, the ghost towns Mowry, Harshaw, Washington Camp, and Duquesne bear mute testimony to the boom days of yesteryear. Cattle ranches, no longer the vast spreads of the early days, still remain a vital part of the culture and economy.

Patagonia is an outdoor enthusiasts paradise offering many places to hike, bicycle, horseback ride, birdwatch, and four-wheel drive. The historic Arizona Trail runs through Patagonia, weaving its way to the beautiful hiking paths in the Santa Rita Mountains.

Patagonia is an internationally renowned “birdwatching” destination with visitors from around the world stopping here to see over 200 species of rare and exotic birds that migrate from Mexico to this southeastern tip of Arizona. The Nature Conservancy’s Patagonia-Sonoita Creek Preserve is an extraordinary stop for birders and hikers alike with trails running along perennial streams. For those who love water activities, Patagonia Lake State Park is located just seven miles south of town.

Patagonia hosts two festivals each year. In summer, Fourth of July festivities include a huge parade, live music, great food and fireworks display. In fall, the Patagonia Fall Festival takes place during the second weekend in October amidst mild temperatures and beautiful fall colors and features a fantastic line up of performers and over 150 arts, crafts, and specialty food booths with exhibitors from around the Southwest.

The community offers an eclectic mix of culture, ethnicity and industry which is reflected in the diversity of restaurants, galleries and shops, bed-and-breakfasts and alternative health practitioners. In addition there is a hotel and two markets.

For more information: Patagonia Visitor Information, 307 McKeown Ave., (520) 394-0060/(888) 794-0060, www.patagoniaaz.com.