The historic water tower
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Reata Pass Historic Site

4.6
·491k reviews·Scottsdale, United States

A historic mountain pass in Arizona, offering a glimpse into frontier life and military history with informative markers.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant temperatures for exploring

CrowdLow
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The historic water tower

Reata Pass Historic Site

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant temperatures for exploring

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic mountain pass in Arizona, offering a glimpse into frontier life and military history with informative markers.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A convenient and educational stop for history buffs on a road trip through southern Arizona."

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TIP

🚗 Easy Parking Available

Ample parking is available right at the site, making access straightforward for visitors.

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be walking around the historic markers, so sturdy footwear is recommended for exploring.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Historic Pass Itself

The Historic Pass Itself

Stand where history unfolded. Imagine the travelers and soldiers who passed through this strategic mountain gap.

Interpretive Signage

Interpretive Signage

Learn about the site's role in frontier history through informative plaques and markers.

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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit to Reata Pass

Reata Pass Historic Site offers a glimpse into the past. Check operating hours before you go, as they can vary seasonally. Consider the weather, especially if visiting during hotter months, and bring plenty of water. Parking is available on-site.

What to Expect at Reata Pass

This site is primarily an outdoor historical marker and interpretive area. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the grounds. While there are no extensive facilities, the historical significance makes it a worthwhile stop for history buffs and those interested in the region's past.

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant temperatures for exploring
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light for photos
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

@saddleupretreats @The Turquoise Reata @Kenz
@leahh.fishh
8.3K likes • 42.9K views

🚗 Easy Parking Available

Ample parking is available right at the site, making access straightforward for visitors.

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be walking around the historic markers, so sturdy footwear is recommended for exploring.

We were so impressed by how well @friendsofsouthpass and @wyo.state.parks have restored the old abandoned mining town, South Pass City. You can go into the restored building interiors, the mine has working parts, and the tour guides so knowledgeable and helpful! … … … … … #wyominglife #southpasscity #southpasscitywyoming #goldminingtown #goldmininghistory #historicwyoming #wyomingtourism #wyomings...
drewfordski
173 likes • 0 views
@caskets_and_cowboys The Carissa Mine South Pass City Besides gold, other minerals include pyrite, pyrrhotite, quartz, realgar, hematite, and orpiment @utdogwhisperer We've arrived!!! South Pass City Historic Town State Historical Site #wyoming #wy #explorewyoming #visitwyoming #wyominghistory #westernhistory #ghosttown #mininghistory #mining #miner #miningwyoming #ghosthunting #ghost #ghosts #gh...
worldminingheritage
147 likes • 0 views

💧 Bring Water & Sun Protection

Especially during warmer months, stay hydrated and protected from the sun while you explore.

📚 Research Before You Go

Understanding the history beforehand enhances the experience of the interpretive signs.

See you this weekend for ✨Gold Rush Days✨ in historic #SouthPassCity!
wyo.state.parks
106 likes • 1.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Easy Parking Available

Ample parking is available right at the site, making access straightforward for visitors.

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be walking around the historic markers, so sturdy footwear is recommended for exploring.

💧 Bring Water & Sun Protection

Especially during warmer months, stay hydrated and protected from the sun while you explore.

📚 Research Before You Go

Understanding the history beforehand enhances the experience of the interpretive signs.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Reata Pass Historic Site to be a straightforward and educational stop for those interested in frontier history. Its easy accessibility from I-10 is a major plus for road-trippers. While it's a simple site with interpretive signs, it offers a quiet moment to reflect on the region's past.

What People Like

Easy highway access
Historical context
Quiet reflection spot

What People Dislike

Limited facilities
Basic interpretive displays

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Reata Pass is located off I-10 in Cochise County, Arizona. Take exit 322 for US-191 North towards Chiricahua National Monument. The site is a short drive from the highway, with clear signage indicating the turn-off for parking.

Yes, the site is well-marked from the highway. Follow the signs for Reata Pass Historic Site after taking the US-191 exit. Parking is conveniently located at the main interpretive area.

The most common route is via I-10 East or West, taking exit 322 for US-191 North. This is a scenic drive that leads directly to the historic pass.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Reata Pass Historic Site is a public historical marker and does not require an entrance fee or tickets. It's free to visit and explore.

As an outdoor historical site, Reata Pass is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no official operating hours, but it's best to visit when there is sufficient light for safety and viewing.

There is no admission fee to visit Reata Pass Historic Site. It is a free historical landmark for public access.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

At Reata Pass, you'll find interpretive signage detailing its historical significance, particularly its role in frontier history and military movements. It's a place to reflect on the past.

Most visitors spend about 30 minutes to an hour at Reata Pass, enough time to read the historical markers and take in the surroundings.

There are typically no restroom facilities directly at the Reata Pass Historic Site itself. It's advisable to use facilities before arriving or at a nearby rest stop.

Children can visit Reata Pass, especially if they have an interest in history. The interpretive signs provide educational content, but it's primarily an outdoor site with limited interactive elements.

While there are no designated picnic areas, visitors can enjoy a brief stop. For a full picnic experience, consider nearby state parks or rest areas.

📸 📸 Photography

The best photo opportunities involve capturing the mountain pass landscape and the historical markers. Late afternoon light can create dramatic shots of the rugged terrain.

Yes, photography is allowed at Reata Pass Historic Site for personal use. Capture the historical markers and the scenic views of the pass.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers

Reata Pass is an ideal quick stop for anyone on a road trip through southern Arizona. Its proximity to I-10 makes it an easy addition to a journey between Tucson and El Paso. You can easily spend 30-60 minutes here, reading the historical markers and taking in the views, before continuing your travels.

It's a great spot to break up a long drive and offer a brief, educational detour. Pack some snacks and enjoy a moment of historical reflection before hitting the road again. The accessibility and lack of crowds make it a stress-free stop.

📚 History Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by frontier history, military campaigns, and the expansion of the American West, Reata Pass offers a valuable glimpse into the past. The interpretive signage provides context on its strategic importance during periods like the Apache Wars. It's a place to connect with the stories of soldiers, travelers, and settlers who navigated this challenging terrain.

Consider doing some prior reading on the history of southeastern Arizona and the role of passes like Reata in military strategy and westward expansion. This will greatly enhance your appreciation of the site's significance.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Historical Significance of Reata Pass

Reata Pass holds a notable place in the history of the American West, particularly during the Apache Wars and the era of frontier expansion. Its strategic location made it a crucial passage for military troops, settlers, and travelers traversing the rugged terrain of southeastern Arizona. The pass served as a vital link, connecting different territories and facilitating movement through challenging landscapes.

During the late 19th century, Reata Pass was a point of interest for military campaigns aimed at controlling Native American territories. Its name is often associated with historical accounts of skirmishes and the daily lives of those who navigated the frontier. Understanding this context enriches the visitor's appreciation for the site, transforming it from a simple geographical feature into a place steeped in historical narrative.

Today, Reata Pass is preserved as a historic site with interpretive signage that educates visitors about its past. It offers a tangible connection to the pioneers and soldiers who shaped the region, providing a quiet space for reflection on the challenges and triumphs of frontier life.

Visiting Reata Pass: Practicalities and Experience

Visiting Reata Pass Historic Site is a straightforward experience, primarily focused on appreciating its historical context. The site is easily accessible from Interstate 10, making it a convenient stop for travelers passing through the area. Upon arrival, visitors will find parking facilities that allow for easy access to the interpretive displays.

The main attraction at Reata Pass is the series of historical markers and plaques that detail the site's importance. These signs provide information about the pass's role in military history, transportation, and settlement of the region. Visitors are encouraged to read these thoroughly to gain a deeper understanding of the events that transpired here. The landscape itself, a rugged mountain pass, also offers a sense of the environment faced by historical figures.

Given that Reata Pass is an outdoor site, it's essential to prepare for the elements. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the grounds around the markers. Visitors should also bring water, sunscreen, and hats, especially during warmer months, as shade can be limited. The site is best enjoyed during daylight hours, allowing ample time to read the historical information and appreciate the scenery.

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