Shape of Arizona: Rectangular with a Southeast Panhandle

Arizona's shape is essentially a rectangle (~335 mi wide × 390 mi tall) with a distinctive southeastern panhandle (the "boot heel") extending south to the Mexican border. This protrusion contains Cochise County (Bisbee, Douglas, Sierra Vista) and was defined by the Gadsden Purchase (1854) — acquired for a southern transcontinental railroad route. Borders: Utah (N), Colorado (NE corner), New Mexico (E), Mexico (S), California/Nevada (W, Colorado River).