Granite Wash Pass facts for kids
Granite Wash Pass is a natural opening, like a low spot, between two mountain ranges in La Paz County, Arizona. It sits right between the Granite Wash Mountains and the Little Harquahala Mountains. This pass is a bit like a natural doorway. It reaches its highest point at 1,834 feet (559 meters) above sea level.
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History of Granite Wash Pass
An Important Early Route
Granite Wash Pass has been a key travel path for a long time. Starting in November 1863, it became an important route. Two teamsters, Gird and Sage, found this way through the pass. Their discovery helped create what was known as the La Paz - Wikenburg Road. This road connected the Colorado River to the inner parts of Arizona.
Water Along the Way
In the early days, travelers needed water. There was a waterhole called Granite Water right inside the pass. However, on later maps of the route, Granite Water isn't shown anymore. It might have dried up or not had enough water for everyone.
Perhaps it was a temporary spring. It could have formed after the very heavy rains of the Great Flood of 1862. Over time, other places developed better water sources. For example, stagecoach stops like Desert Station and Flint's dug wells. These wells provided more reliable water for travelers.
Granite Wash Pass Today
Today, Granite Wash Pass is still a busy corridor. It is home to the Arizona and California Railroad line. This railroad helps move goods and people across the region. The pass also carries U.S. Route 60 in Arizona. This highway connects Hope on the west side of the pass to Harcuvar, Arizona, on the east.
