Lavender Pit Guide
Man-Made Canyon: Witness the Scale of Bisbee's Mining Past Guide
Prepare to be awestruck by the sheer scale of the Lavender Pit, a massive open-pit copper mine that dominates the landscape just outside of Bisbee, Arizona. This man-made canyon is a powerful reminder of Bisbee's rich mining history and the immense impact that copper extraction had on the town and its surrounding environment. While no longer active, the Lavender Pit offers a unique and unforgettable glimpse into the industrial past. The Lavender Pit was developed by the Phelps Dodge Corporation in the early 1950s to extract low-grade copper ore that was not economically viable to mine using traditional underground methods. The open-pit mining operation involved removing vast quantities of rock and earth to reach the copper deposits, resulting in the creation of the massive pit that exists today. The mine operated for over two decades, significantly contributing to Bisbee's economy but also leaving a lasting mark on the landscape. Mining operations ceased in 1974, and the pit has since become a popular tourist attraction. While you can't enter the Lavender Pit itself, there are several excellent viewpoints that offer stunning panoramic views of the massive excavation. The most popular viewpoint is located just off Highway 80, where you can park and safely observe the pit from a distance. Bring your camera to capture the scale of the operation and the colorful layers of rock that have been exposed. Interpretive signs provide information about the history of the mine and the mining process. The sheer size of the Lavender Pit is truly breathtaking and offers a unique perspective on Bisbee's industrial heritage.
Transportation
The Lavender Pit Overlook is located just outside of Bisbee on Highway 80. From downtown Bisbee, head east on Highway 80. The overlook will be on your right, with ample parking available. It's easily accessible by car.