West Wellton: History, Golf and Recreation

West Wellton combines local history with recreational activities and recurring community events. For planning your trip, you can distinguish between the themes: railroad and Western history, golf and park visits, and events with fixed annual dates. For trips along El Camino del Diablo, there are also specific permit and vehicle requirements to keep in mind.

Local History Between the Railroad and Well Town

The Gila Mountains surround Wellton. The original railroad route ran through the Gila River valley from the former mining settlement of Dome at the northern end of the Gila Mountains to the present-day site of Wellton. Wellton’s Western history includes its former role as a water station for the railroad and the Butterfield Stage Coach. The Pioneer Museum offers another way to explore the area’s history. If you are planning a visit, check current visiting information in advance.

The name Wellton also reflects the area’s history: it comes from a place called “Well Town.” The name arose after several deep wells were drilled at a particular location. The story behind the name and the railroad route offer different points of reference when exploring the area’s development.

Golf, Park and Swimming Pool

Butterfield Golf Course is an 18-hole par-3 course. The facility includes a driving range and a putting green; pull carts, golf bags, clubs and golf carts are available to rent. In addition to the course layout, the offerings include practice facilities and specific rental items. If you need equipment for your golf visit, you can take these options into account when planning.

Butterfield Park has picnic areas, playgrounds, sports fields, barbecue facilities and a walking path. Wellton’s community swimming pool has a large slide. The park brings together a range of activities in one place, while the swimming pool offers a separate destination for a visit. Check current operating information before planning a visit to the pool.

Annual Events

The annual Tractor Rodeo features an antique tractor display, food and demonstration booths, and entertainment. It is a community event that supports the city’s park and recreation facilities. At the annual Pioneer Day, the parade runs from Westside Park to Dome Street, followed by a fiesta at Butterfield Park. Both events combine public activities with specific locations in Wellton.

The Kiwanis Fishing Derby takes place annually on the first Saturday in October at the Butterfield Golf Course pro shop pond. If you want to plan your trip around one of these dates, check current event dates and details in advance, as they may change. This helps distinguish the fixed locations and program details from the event information that applies at the time.

Drive to Barry M. Goldwater Range and El Camino del Diablo

From I-8 near Wellton, an access route to the Barry M. Goldwater Range entrance runs via Exit 30, William Street, Los Angeles Avenue and Avenue 25E. This access route and El Camino del Diablo pass through the Barry M. Goldwater Range. The information describes two route connections to the range; it does not equate El Camino del Diablo with the access route to the entrance mentioned above.

A free permit, available online, is required for El Camino del Diablo. You also need a four-wheel-drive vehicle with high ground clearance. Since access requirements and route conditions may change, check the requirements before setting out. This preparation is especially important if you are planning the drive as a separate part of your stay.

For the broader travel overview: Wellton.