Fairbank Loop

The Fairbank Loop trail is an easy 4 mile hike with very little elevation gain. This trail is a moderately trafficked loop is located in the San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area and features a ghost town, cemetery, and an abandoned mill.

This trail begins at the parking area for the Fairbank Historic Townsite. From here, you will begin hiking North on the wide and well-marked San Pedro Trail. After hiking for a short distance, you will reach a gate and continue on the trail. 

Slightly less than a half mile down the San Pedro Trail, you will see a sign for Fairbank Cemetery. This 0.1 mile spur trail will pass by multiple graves of former residents of the Fairbank ghost town. You will also be treated to great views of the Sonoran Desert. 

Continuing on the San Pedro trail for another 0.9 miles, you will reach Grand Central Mill. Grand Central Mill was used to process ore from Grand Central Mine in Tombstone, AZ. The mill was in operation until 1889. 

0.5 miles past Grand Central Mill there will be a junction with the River Loop Trail. You will take this trail back towards the trailhead. This trail parallels the beautiful San Pedro River. Hiking on the River Loop Trail for about 2 miles will lead you back to the parking area and the ghost town of Fairbank.

In Fairbank, you will see the remnants of an old town. Multiple buildings, including the Post Office and Schoolhouse are still standing today.

The Fairbank Loop trail is open year-round and there are no associated fees to enter the San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area.This trail allows dogs, but they must be on a leash. There are not any reliable water sources on this hike, so be sure to bring plenty of water. This loop is great due to its relative ease and the historical significance of the area.