It was all about the gold, about $100 million or probably more. Mined from the Vulture Mine discovered by Henry Wickenburg.  The Vulture Mine produced more gold than any other mine in Arizona.  And, it is for sale today with a price tag of 6.5 million dollars.  Some say that the gold that remains is more than that what was already taken. It is certainly worth more today that is for sure.  Although Vulture City is no longer inhabited it did boast a population of over 5000 until it was closed in 1942.  No doubt the Vulture mine had a lot to do with the development of Wickenburg and even Phoenix itself.  Vulture Mine road is paved all the way to the mine and is a great ride to take.  Long an area inhabited by local Native Americans due to the fertile soil along the Hassayampa River with the construction of Hwy 60 from Phoenix to California and the building of the Santa Fe railroad Wickenburg became known as the Dude Ranch Capital of the World attracting tourists from both east and west.  A couple of these early guest ranches are still in operation today. The Kay El Bar is rich in the area’s early history offering a chance to experience the ‘old west’ lifestyle.  The Rancho de los Caballeros also is one of America’s top golf resorts.  Located along the Hassayampa River which in itself is another popular destination in the town of Wickenburg.  The Hassayampa River is known as the ‘river that runs upside down’ .  A lot of it’s 100 mile natural course runs through the desert  underground.  However just south of town the river flows up out of the ground providing a natural preserve habitat for desert wildlife.  The Hassayampa Preserve is a great place to stop and take a break to enjoy the many species of birds if you are lucky.  Out of town towards Aguila on Hwy 71 (about 20 miles) one can find the largest collection of antique mining equipment at Robson’s Mining World, a make-believe early mining town.  Back in town Wickenburg retains its ‘old west’ culture and tradition with community events such as the ‘Gold Rush Days’.  This event captures the early days of Wickenburg with gold panning, rodeo, parade and other events that take one back in time.  Click on the Event links below for schedules.  Downtown on Frontier street make sure to take some time to visit the Western Museum complete with exhibits featuring things to do with the era of cowboys and cowgirls. Frontier street runs along side the railroad track and nearby on Tegner and Apache behind Town Hall  you will find Santa Fe’s old #761 Steam Locomotive. Later in the year Wickenburg sponsors the Fly In and Classic Car Show.  There is no charge for this community event at the Wickenburg Airport. These classics fly and drive in from all around the Southwest. Here you can spend some time talking with the owners of these rare beauties.  Take some time to visit the shops around town. Don’t forget to stop in and say hello to Dave Waddell at Copper State Cycles.  Dave puts a lot of emphasis on the excellent service he provides and has best prices on tires for your bike. Also, you can pick up a brochure at the Chamber of Commerce that lists all the historic buildings in town. Check out the links on this page for more information.  Ride Safe!  RR