Not Quite the Divide
Mule Pass was the historic gateway into Bisbee, marking the exact point where the traveler transitioned from the vast desert plains into the high-altitude “Sky Island” charm of the Mule Mountains. For years, a prominent sign at the pass claimed you were crossing the Continental Divide, despite the actual divide being located nearly 100 miles to the east.
Historically, Mule Pass was the primary route for stagecoaches and ore wagons traveling between the booming mines of Bisbee and the railhead in Fairbanks. Before the Mule Pass Tunnel was completed in 1958, travelers had to navigate the treacherous, winding switchbacks over the top of the ridge.
As you reach the summit of the pass on Highway 80, you’ll find a prominent Historical Marker detailing the significance of this mountain notch. The marker commemorates the engineering feat that finally connected Bisbee safely to the rest of Southern Arizona. While not the “Great” Continental Divide, this local divide serves as a massive psychological and physical barrier.
Know Before You Go:
- The Tunnel Experience: Entering the Mule Pass Tunnel is a Bisbee rite of passage. Built in 1958 to bypass the treacherous “Divvy” road over the top, the tunnel provides a cinematic “reveal” of the town as you exit the south side and descend into the canyon.
- The Old “Divvy” Road: If you want to see the actual pass where the sign once stood, take the Old Divide Road that winds over the top of the tunnel. It’s a steep, curvy drive (or a strenuous hike) that offers incredible views of the Mule Mountain peaks.
- The Photo Op: There is a scenic pull-out at the top of Mule Pass. This is the spot to pull over, see the marker and photograph Historic Highway 80 as it heads to the west.
- The Cycling Challenge: Mule Pass is a major test for cyclists. The “Time Trial” up the pass is a local tradition, but be aware that there is very little shoulder inside the tunnel. Most local riders prefer the old road over the top to avoid the high-speed traffic.
Pro Tip: If you take the old road over the top at sunset, you can stand at the “fake” divide and watch the lights of the San Pedro River Valley flicker on to the west while the town of Bisbee goes into shadow to the east.