The TOWN
Clarkdale was the first planned community in Arizona, a revolutionary idea set forth by William A. Clark, a copper baron who wanted a town in which his mining and smelter men could raise their families. Today, the community Clark envisioned for his workers lives on in the historic charm of Main Street, the Clarkdale Park, Town Hall and our holiday celebrations. Additionally, we are looking toward the future and the ecological sustainability of our town.
Copper was mined in Jerome and smelted in Clarkdale in one of the wealthiest extraction operations in the history of the American West. An aerial view of our two towns reads like a timeline from the first open pit operations on Mingus Mountain to the tailings pond edging the Verde River, to the charred ruins of the Clark Mansion which burned in 2010 after it stood for years as a reminder of Clarkdale’s storied beginnings.
The James home was built in lower Clarkdale around 1910, along with a few small outlying buildings on the property that were rented to men who worked in the smelter. The property fell into disrepair until it was bought and the main house was completely remodeled from 1983 to 1986. The outbuildings were used as storage until 2006, when the property workshop’s exterior was preserved and its interior was painstakingly renovated to create the Blue Heron Guest House.
Points of INTEREST
Click through the slide show above to see what we recommend year-round.
The Verde Canyon Railroad
Clarkdale's own Verde Canyon Railroad offers a scenic ride through the desert surrounding Clarkdale, with interesting bits of history and frequent bald eagle sightings. It is a delight for all ages, and offers themed rides throughout the year.
Ruins
The Blue Heron is just moments away from the amazing Tuzigoot Indian Ruins, a phenomenal part of our Arizona Heritage.
Wineries
There are a number of award-winning wineries minutes away in Jerome, Page Springs, and Cottonwood. The Verde Valley has become a hotspot for winemaking in recent years due to our favorable climate.
Ghost Town Adventures
Jerome is perched on Mingus Mountain above Clarkdale, a five to ten minute winding drive away. Its rich history, arts community, shopping, dining and nightlife make it a great destination year round.
Scenic Drives
There are a number of beautiful drives to be taken in the Verde Valley, whether you are looking to see the Verde River or the red rocks of Sedona. As residents of the valley for over thirty years, we can recommend just the route for you.
Hiking and backpacking
Sedona and the canyons surrounding Clarkdale offer breathtaking routes for the prepared and experienced outdoor enthusiast.
Seasonal RECOMMENDATIONS
Fall in the Verde Valley is spectacular- the air is crisp, the leaves are alight with color, and there is no shortage of things to do for couples and families alike. Here is what the Blue Heron recommends for trips to our guest house between September and November:
Drive through Oak Creek Canyon
The trip north from Sedona to Flagstaff through Oak Creek Canyon is the best way to enjoy the sights of the changing fall foliage. This drive is about an hour from the front door of the Blue Heron to Flagstaff, and you'll be in awe of the colors you see the entire way. Don't forget to pull over and buy some freshly picked apples!
Rhythm & Ribs
Enjoy this outdoor country music festival and rib cookoff suitable for the whole family in neighboring Cottonwood, less than ten minutes away, the first week of October.
Verde Canyon Railroad's Ales on Rails
Oktoberfest-themed train rides every Saturday and Sunday in October, featuring local brews.
Jerome Ghost Walks
October 7th & 8th, take a walking tour of Jerome's sordid and haunted past!
Tickets from Jerome Hist. Society.
Verde Canyon Railroad's Halloween Express
A ghoulish ride on October 31st complete with candy and costumes.
Halloween Dance at Spook Hall
This annual tradition in the Verde Valley is an adults-only Halloween party staged by and benefitting the Jerome Fire Department. Less than five minutes from the Blue Heron.
Clarkdale Halloween
You've never seen trick-or-treating like this before. Upper Clarkdale is blockaded for a pedestrian-only evening of candy gathering and costume contests on our picturesque Main Street.
The Blue Heron Guest House (928) 634-3989 200 Main St. Clarkdale, AZ 86324
