According to Liuxers, Gila County is located in the state of Arizona, and it covers an area of 4,797 square miles. The county is bordered to the north by Apache County, to the east by Graham and Pinal Counties, to the south by Maricopa County, and to the west by Yavapai County. The county seat is Globe, which is located in the southern part of Gila County.
According to the 2018 census estimates, Gila County has a population of 53,597 people. The population density is 11 persons per square mile making it one of the least densely populated counties in Arizona. About 75 percent of Gila County’s population lives in rural areas outside of cities and towns. The largest city in Gila County is Globe with a population of 7,532 people followed by Miami with a population of 2,846 people.
The economy in Gila County is largely based on agriculture and forestry industries as well as tourism due to its many natural attractions such as Tonto National Monument or Roosevelt Lake providing ample recreational activities for visitors all year round. Mining also plays an important role in Gila County’s economy thanks to its rich deposits of copper ore which are mined from several open-pit mines located throughout the county.
Gila County has seven incorporated cities: Globe, Miami, Hayden, Winkelman, Kearny, San Carlos and Youngtown; as well as several unincorporated communities such as Claypool and Dudleyville. The county also has several Native American reservations such as San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation or White Mountain Apache Tribe Reservation providing important opportunities for economic development within these communities.
Gila County offers its residents numerous recreational activities ranging from fishing or hunting at Roosevelt Lake or camping at Tonto National Forest; all while enjoying some spectacular views that this part of Arizona has to offer. Additionally, there are numerous historical sites within Gila County such as Besh Ba Gowah Archaeological Park which provides visitors with an opportunity to learn more about this region’s rich cultural heritage.
History of Gila County, Arizona
Gila County, Arizona has a long and varied history. The area has been inhabited for thousands of years, with the first settlers arriving around 12,000 years ago. These early inhabitants were hunter-gatherers who lived off the land and made use of the abundant resources in the region. In more recent times, the area was home to a variety of Indian tribes including Apaches, Yavapais, and Pimas.
In 1539, Spanish explorer Marcos de Niza arrived in the region and claimed it for Spain. This led to an influx of Spanish settlers who established small settlements throughout Gila County. In 1853, Gila County was officially formed as part of New Mexico Territory by an act passed by Congress.
During this time period, Gila County began to develop rapidly due to its abundant natural resources such as gold and copper which were mined extensively during this period. The mining industry brought in a large number of settlers from all over the world looking to make their fortune in Gila County’s many mines.
The American Civil War had an effect on Gila County as it was part of the Confederate Territory during this time period. After the war ended in 1865, Gila County was ceded back to Arizona Territory where it remains today.
In 1872, Globe became the county seat for Gila County after its residents voted overwhelmingly in favor of making it so during a special election held that year. Since then Globe has remained an important center for commerce and government within the county while also serving as a gateway to other parts of Arizona due to its close proximity to Phoenix and Tucson.
Today, Gila County is one of Arizona’s most populous counties with over 53 thousand people calling it home according to 2018 census estimates. Despite its population growth over recent years, much of Gila County remains sparsely populated with many rural residents living off-the-grid and making use of its abundant natural resources such as fishing or hunting at Roosevelt Lake or camping at Tonto National Forest; all while enjoying some spectacular views that this part of Arizona has to offer.
Major cities and towns in Gila County, Arizona
Gila County, Arizona is home to a variety of cities and towns that make up its diverse population. The county seat is Globe, the largest city in Gila County with a population of 7,500 people according to the 2018 census. This quaint mountain town is known for its rich mining history and is located near Roosevelt Lake, making it an ideal spot for fishing and other outdoor activities.
The second largest city in Gila County is Miami with a population of 3,000 people. This small town was once home to the Miami Copper Mining Company which opened in 1882 and was one of the most successful copper mines in Arizona at the time. Today, Miami is known for its historic downtown area and its annual festivals such as the Copper Country Jubilee held every summer.
Another notable city in Gila County is Payson with a population of 17,000 people. Payson has become an increasingly popular destination for retirees looking for a peaceful place to call home. The city’s close proximity to Tonto National Forest also makes it an ideal spot for camping or hiking trips throughout the year.
In addition to these larger cities, Gila County also has several smaller towns scattered throughout its boundaries such as Claypool with a population of 1,000 people and Young with a population of 500 people. These two small towns are known for their rural charm and offer visitors an opportunity to get away from it all while still being close enough to major cities like Phoenix or Tucson if they need something more urban-oriented during their visit.
Gila County offers something special for everyone looking to explore this part of Arizona. From historic mining towns like Globe or Miami to small rural communities like Claypool or Young; there’s something here that will suit any traveler’s needs while also providing them with plenty of opportunities to experience some truly magnificent views that this part of Arizona has to offer.
Airports in Gila County, Arizona
Gila County, Arizona is served by two major airports that provide convenient access to a variety of destinations and attractions. See Arizona airports. The Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) is located about 110 miles northeast of Globe and serves as the largest airport in Arizona. It offers flights to over 100 domestic and international destinations, making it a great option for travelers looking to get out of town for a quick weekend getaway. Additionally, PHX features an array of shopping and dining options as well as on-site car rental services.
The other major airport serving Gila County is the Tucson International Airport (TUS). This airport is located about 150 miles southeast of Globe and has flights to over 40 domestic destinations. Additionally, TUS provides travelers with access to a variety of car rental services and ground transportation options such as shuttles, taxis, and limousines.
In addition to these two major airports, Gila County also offers several smaller regional airports located within its boundaries. These include the San Carlos Apache Airport (P08), Globe Municipal Airport (GYR), Payson Municipal Airport (PAN), Miami Municipal Airport (MIA), and Young Municipal Airport (YNG). These airports are mainly used by general aviation aircraft but can sometimes accommodate commercial air traffic depending on the airline’s schedule.
Finally, Gila County also offers access to several private airstrips scattered throughout its boundaries such as the Roosevelt Lake Airstrip (RLA) near Roosevelt Lake or the Claypool Airstrip (CPA) near Claypool. These airstrips are mainly used by private pilots for recreational purposes but can be accessed with prior permission from the local authorities if needed.
Gila County provides travelers with plenty of options when it comes to air travel within its boundaries or beyond them. From major international hubs like Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport or Tucson International Airport to smaller regional facilities like San Carlos Apache Airport or Miami Municipal Airport; there’s an option here for everyone looking for easy access to their destination in Arizona or beyond.