Historic
Mining Town
Arizona Copper
In 2017 the Arizona Republic described Hayden as: “an American story of strong work ethic and resilience, and opportunities for chasing the American dream.” The copper mining town’s fortunes have faded since it was founded in 1911. Hayden started as a company town owned by the Kennecott Copper Corporation for employees extracting high-grade copper ore from nearby hills. Prominent smokestacks visible from Highway 77 remain an optimistic expression of prosperity and jobs following Kennecott’s $40 million expansion. Now owned by the American Smelting and Refining Company (ASARCO), Hayden’s copper smelter is one of only three still in operation across the United States.
Hayden’s 9-hole public golf club (# 125 Golf Course Road) opened in 1930; it, too remains in business and invites visitors with 2915 yards from the longest tees, Bermuda grass on the fairways and TiffDwarf on the greens – and two sets of tees welcome different skill levels. There's a pro-shop, rental carts and pull carts; a driving range and putting green. Other details? Call (520) 356-7801. One golfer described it as: “quiet and peaceful course, great value - a little piece of real estate with serenity.”
While in Hayden, sample local cuisine at Maria's Restaurant. If you are a Rock Climber then one of the best rocks in the southwest is located nearby called Homestead Rock.