Nestled in the heart of Globe, Arizona, just off Highway 60, the Old Dominion Historic Mine Park (ODMP) stands as a testament to the region’s rich mining history. This historic site, located at 163 Murphy Street, is easily accessible from the main entrance near DeMarco’s Italian Restaurant and directly across from Globe Head Start. A secondary entrance can be found behind the baseball fields on Noftsger Hill, providing an alternative entry point for visitors.
A Legacy of Copper Mining
Originally opened as a copper mine in 1880, the Old Dominion Mine played a crucial role in the economic and industrial growth of the Globe-Miami mining district. The mine operated for over 50 years, producing significant amounts of copper that fueled Arizona’s rise as a major mining state. By the time it ceased operations in 1931, the Old Dominion Mine had become an integral part of the region’s history.
After years of environmental reclamation, the site was transformed into an educational and recreational park, celebrating the mining legacy of Globe while offering outdoor enthusiasts a scenic place to explore. Today, ODMP is a free, dawn-to-dusk attraction that blends history with adventure, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in Arizona’s mining past or looking for an exciting day outdoors.
Explore & Experience
Visitors to Old Dominion Historic Mine Park can enjoy a variety of activities, exhibits, and trails, all designed to showcase the historical significance of the site while providing opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Park Amenities & Features
- Welcome Center – Start your visit with an introduction to the history and significance of the mine, complete with interpretive displays.
- Restroom Facilities & Water Stations – Located near the entrance for convenience.
- Free Trail Maps – Available to help navigate the park’s many trails and points of interest.
- Educational Signage – More than 35 signs throughout the park provide fascinating insights into mining techniques, geology, and local history.
- Mining Artifact “Boneyard” – View antique mining equipment and artifacts that tell the story of Arizona’s rich mining past.
- Picnic Pavilions – Shaded ramadas with tables offer the perfect spot for a scenic lunch.
- Mining-Themed Playground – A fun, interactive area for kids that ties into the park’s historical theme.
- 9-Hole Disc Golf Course – A unique way to enjoy the park with friends and family.
Trails & Hiking Adventures
The park boasts a network of trails, each named after historic mining claims and offering unique views, educational stops, and varying difficulty levels.
Featured Trails:
- Silver Nugget Trail – A flat, family-friendly trail, perfect for visitors of all ages.
- Interloper Loop Trail – Features several hilly sections, leading to breathtaking views of the mine’s head frame and remaining historic structures.
- Mine Cycle Circle – Walk through the full life cycle of mining, from prehistoric mining to the Silver Rush, the Copper Boom, and finally, the site’s closure and reclamation.
- Park Avenue & Ventilation Vista – Borders the former heart of the mining operation and offers a panoramic overlook of remaining structures, along with a detailed map of the underground ventilation system.
- Buffalo Butte Loop – The highest trail in the park, offering 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains. Near the top, visitors will find a cement compass that identifies the distant peaks.
- Mule Shoe Pass – A historic trail connecting to the back entrance, leading past the former smelter site and featuring the park’s “Copper Glossary” sign series.
Why Visit Old Dominion Historic Mine Park?
Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, family with kids, or disc golf player, Old Dominion Historic Mine Park has something for everyone. It’s a living museum that not only tells the story of Arizona’s mining past but also provides an engaging, scenic escape into nature. With free admission, a wide range of trails and activities, and a commitment to preserving Globe’s rich heritage, it’s truly a hidden gem in Arizona worth exploring!
So grab your hiking shoes, bring a picnic, and step into the past at Old Dominion Historic Mine Park!
