Lavender Pit Guide
Bisbee's Open-Air Mining Marvel: A Glimpse into Copper's Past Guide
The Lavender Pit is a massive open-pit mine located in Bisbee, Arizona, offering a unique and awe-inspiring glimpse into the region's rich mining history. This man-made canyon, a testament to the scale of copper extraction, provides visitors with a dramatic landscape and a tangible connection to Bisbee's boomtown past. While no longer actively mined, the Lavender Pit remains a powerful symbol of the town's industrial heritage and a fascinating destination for those interested in geology, history, and the sheer power of human engineering. The Lavender Pit's story began in the early 20th century when the Copper Queen Consolidated Mining Company sought to extract low-grade copper ore that was uneconomical to mine underground. In 1950, the company initiated open-pit mining, named after geologist Harrison M. Lavender, who championed the technique. Over the next 25 years, massive amounts of earth were removed, creating the immense pit we see today. The mining operation ceased in 1974, leaving behind a striking visual reminder of Bisbee's copper-fueled prosperity. While you can't enter the pit itself for safety reasons, the best way to experience the Lavender Pit is from the overlook on the aptly named "Lavender Pit Overlook" on Highway 80. Here, you can take in the sheer scale of the excavation and appreciate the geological formations exposed by the mining process. Photography is a must, as the pit's colors and textures change dramatically with the light. Consider visiting during sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic views. While Bisbee doesn't have a specific culinary tradition tied directly to the Lavender Pit, the town boasts a vibrant culinary scene with many restaurants and cafes offering Southwestern cuisine and local specialties.
Transportation
The Lavender Pit Overlook is located on Highway 80 just outside of downtown Bisbee. Driving is the most convenient way to reach the overlook. Parking is available at the overlook. There is no public transportation directly to the overlook, but taxis or ride-sharing services may be available from Bisbee.