The Forgotten Story of the Butterfield Overland Mail Route's Hardest Hauls Deep in Arizona's rugged terrain lies a piece of history that's often overlooked by travelers and outdoor enthusiasts: the Butterfield Overland Mail Route.

The Forgotten Story of the Butterfield Overland Mail Route's Hardest Hauls

Deep in Arizona's rugged terrain lies a piece of history that's often overlooked by travelers and outdoor enthusiasts: the Butterfield Overland Mail Route. This iconic trail was one of the most treacherous routes for mail carriers, known as "mormon mule drivers," who risked life and limb to deliver vital correspondence between St. Louis and San Francisco in the mid-19th century.

The Hardest Hauls: From Apache Pass to Fort Huachuca

The Butterfield Overland Mail Route spanned over 2,700 miles, but its most infamous stretch was from Apache Pass to Fort Huachuca. This 10-mile section traversed the San Pedro Valley, where the trail narrowed and rose sharply up a rocky slope. The climb was so steep that mail carriers had to lead their mules by hand, often in the scorching heat of summer.

• Why it was deadly: Apache Pass was notorious for its treacherous terrain and unpredictable weather. A sudden rainstorm could turn the trail into a muddy quagmire, making it difficult for both humans and animals to traverse.
• Notable landmarks: The trail passed by the site where famous scout Jack Swilling established the first permanent settlement in what is now Phoenix. The area was also home to various Native American tribes, including the Apache, who often clashed with mail carriers.

A Journey Through Arizona's Landscape

The Butterfield Overland Mail Route traversed some of Arizona's most breathtaking landscapes, from the Sonoran Desert's vast expanses of sand and rock to the rolling hills of the San Pedro Valley. Travelers can still experience this natural beauty today by following the route's original trail.

• Must-see attractions:

+ The remains of the old Apache Pass Post Office, now a National Historic Landmark. + Fort Huachuca, which served as a vital stopover for mail carriers and later became a major military installation. + The San Pedro River, which provided essential water sources for both humans and animals.

Best Times to Visit

The best time to explore the Butterfield Overland Mail Route is during Arizona's mild winter months (December to February). Spring and fall are also ideal periods, with comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer is not recommended due to the extreme heat and potential flash flooding.

Practical Info

• The trail is open year-round, but some sections may be closed due to weather conditions or maintenance.
• There are no entrance fees for the Butterfield Overland Mail Route, but visitors may need to obtain a free permit from the US Forest Service or Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for certain areas.
• Visitors can access the trail via various points along its route, including Apache Pass and Fort Huachuca. Contact the relevant authorities for more information on specific locations and regulations.

Getting There

The nearest major airport is Tucson International Airport, which offers connections to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. From there, visitors can rent a car or join a guided tour to explore the Butterfield Overland Mail Route.

In conclusion, the Butterfield Overland Mail Route's hardest hauls offer a glimpse into Arizona's rich and often forgotten history. By exploring this iconic trail, travelers can experience the beauty of the American West while paying respects to the brave men and women who risked everything to deliver vital correspondence across the country.