![]() The Master Gardeners of Salome put in watering systems and landscaping. The Great Arizona Outback Rumor and Innuendo Historical Society spearheaded a county-wide effort to clean and restore the Wenden Cemetery. One story as to the light's origin was that a young man died within shouting distance of the well, and so the light was put up to prevent that from happening again. Cullen, this well was started in the mid 1800's and continued well after Cullen's death in 1878. There was a light at the top of a pole at the site to guide travelers at night, which is where the name "lighthouse in the desert" came from. Sometimes known as the "lighthouse in the desert", Cullen's Well was the only stable source of water between Wickenburg and Ehrenberg. The panoramic and breathtaking view from southwest Arizona’s highest point, is well worth the trip. Even with these improvements, the road is steep and treacherous and it is recommended for high-clearance 4-wheel drive vehicles with experienced drivers only. In recent years the Bureau of Land Management has refurbished the Observatory and made improvements to the road, as well as adding signs and restrooms at the base of the trail. What remains of the field station can be seen first hand by traveling from Eagle Eye Road, up the south side of the mountain, to the peak of the Harquahala Mountains, at an elevation of almost 6,000 feet. The Harquahala (originally spelled Harqua Hala) Peak Observatory was at it’s height of glory in 1924. HARQUAHALA PEAK SMITHSONIAN SOLAR OBSERVATORY It is rated difficult and not well marked. ![]() It is 5.4 miles from Base Camp to the Summit, with an elevation gain of 3,361 feet. Base Camp Trailhead is at an elevation of 2,230 feed, and the Summit Trailhead is at 5,618 feet. ![]() The Harquahala Pack Trail was built in the 1920’s to supply the people who lived at the Observatory. The trail is primarily used for hiking and is accessible from October until April. The 12 mile trail located near Salome, Arizona. 4-wheel drive vehicles are recommended if you venture off Eagle Eye Road. Numerous off-road trails can be found to the south, off Eagle Eye Road. Access the northern boundary by jeep trails along Highway 60, east of Wenden. The area also supports habitat for desert bighorn sheep, desert tortoise and mule deer populations. The distinctive ecosystems provide exceptional natural diversity, including interior chaparrals, desert grasslands and rare cactus populations. The park is located 47 miles north of Wenden, AZ (off US Route 60) on Alamo Dam Road.ĭifferent from many Sonoran Desert mountain ranges, the Harquahalas (22,880 acres) contain a screened interior canyon system. Alamo Lake was created with the completion of Alamo Dam in 1968. 19 full hook-up sites, developed and undeveloped campgrounds with restrooms and showers. There are 80 campground sites with hook-ups to water and electricity. Camping is a great way to take advantage of these incredible star viewing opportunities. Stargazers are sure to enjoy the unbelievable view of the night sky, with the nearest city lights some 40 miles away. Spring rains bring an abundance of wildflowers and the lake environment attracts a variety of wildlife year round, including bald and golden eagles, waterfowl, foxes, coyotes, mule deer and wild burrows. Fishing tournaments are common at the lake and anglers have an excellent opportunity to catch bluegill, largemouth bass, channel catfish and black crappie. Visitors here enjoy outdoor fun, premier bass fishing, rest and relaxation. Nestled in the Bill Williams River Valley away from the hustle and bustle of ever day life, Alamo Lake is one of Arizona’s best kept secrets. The crystal clear lake is surrounded by mountainous terrain speckled with brush, wildflowers and cacti making for a visually pleasing experience. Alamo Lake State Park is one of the best places to fish for bass in Arizona.
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