City of Cottonwood, Arizona
Cottonwood is centrally located in the Verde Valley. Residents and visitors enjoy the many benefits of the scenic Verde River. Founded in 1879 and incorporated in 1960, the city was named for a circle of 16 Cottonwood trees near the river. The vibrant greens of the riparian area blend with the hues of gold, red and limestone in the mesas, canyons and buttes surrounding Cottonwood. About 80 percent of the land in the Verde Valley is National Forest. Dead Horse Ranch State Park and the Verde River Greenway are within the city limits. Active community members and visitors enjoy bicycling, hang gliding, hiking, river rafting and equestrian activities.