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Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area: A Gateway to the Southwest

Explore Yuma's pivotal role in Southwestern history at the Colorado River crossing, with historic parks and riverfront trails.

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The Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area in Yuma, Arizona, marks a historically significant point on the Colorado River, once the only crossing for non-Native American travelers for hundreds of miles. Today, it encompasses historic parks, riverfront trails, and restored wetlands, offering a glimpse into the region's diverse past and natural beauty.

A brief summary to Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area Business Office

  • Monday 8 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-5 pm
  • Friday 8 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the cooler months (October-April) to comfortably enjoy the outdoor activities and avoid the intense summer heat.
  • Check the Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area's event calendar for festivals, living history demonstrations, and educational programs.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking the trails and exploring the historic sites.
  • Bring water and sunscreen, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors.
  • Consider purchasing an annual pass for multiple visits to the Yuma Territorial Prison and Colorado River State Historic Parks.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Yuma Art Center in downtown Yuma, walk west on W 1st Street for approximately 0.4 miles. The Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area Business Office is located at 180 W 1st St Ste E, on your right. This is a straightforward and pleasant walk through the heart of downtown.

  • Public Transport

    Take a Yuma County Area Transit (YCAT) bus to a stop near downtown Yuma. The closest bus stop is at 4th Avenue and 1st Street. From there, walk one block east on W 1st Street to 180 W 1st St Ste E. Check the YCAT schedule for routes and fare information. A single ride fare is typically around $1.25.

  • Car

    From the center of Yuma, head north on S 4th Avenue for about 0.5 miles. Turn right onto W 1st Street and continue for approximately 0.3 miles. The Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area Business Office is located at 180 W 1st St Ste E, on your left. Street parking is available nearby. Metered parking costs approximately $0.25 per hour, with time limits varying by location.

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Discover more about Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area Business Office

The Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area, nestled along the lower Colorado River in Yuma, Arizona, is a testament to the region's rich history and ecological transformation. Known as the "Gateway to the Great Southwest," Yuma owes its development to its strategic location at the narrowest point of the Colorado River, a natural crossing point for centuries. This heritage area tells the stories of the many who traversed this crossing: the Quechan people, Spanish explorers like Hernando de Alarcón, Mexican settlers, and American pioneers during the California Gold Rush. The Yuma Crossing and Associated Sites connected New Spain and Las Californias and facilitated westward expansion in the United States. The Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area includes several significant sites : * **Colorado River State Historic Park (formerly Yuma Quartermaster Depot):** This park showcases the history of the Colorado River and its impact on the Southwest. The Yuma Quartermaster Depot was a vital U.S. Army supply depot from 1865 to 1883, storing and distributing essential goods to military posts across the region. * **Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park:** This infamous prison operated from 1876 to 1909 and offers visitors a glimpse into the lives of convicts in the Arizona Territory. * **Yuma East and West Wetlands:** These restored wetlands offer a natural habitat for diverse plant and animal life, providing recreational opportunities and highlighting the importance of ecological restoration. * **Pivot Point:** Here, visitors can see a preserved 1907 locomotive, marking the location of the first railroad crossing of the Colorado River. The Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area is more than just a collection of historical sites; it's a place where visitors can connect with the past, appreciate the beauty of the Colorado River, and learn about the ongoing efforts to preserve this unique landscape.

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