Why This One Little Town Is Arizona’s Best Kept Secret
By Monica Spencer|Published February 04, 2017
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Monica Spencer
Author
Monica is a Diné (Navajo) freelance writer and photographer based in the Southwest. Born in Gallup and raised in Phoenix, she is Tódich'ii'nii (Bitter Water People) and Tsi'naajinii (Black Streak Wood People). Monica is a staff writer for Only In Your State, photo editor for The Mesa Legend, and previously a staff writer for The Navajo Post. You can reach her at monica.d.spencer@gmail.com.
It’s a shame that most people visiting Arizona tend to only frequent the touristy spots: Sedona, the Grand Canyon, Phoenix and its suburbs. There are so many hidden gems scattered around the state that are just off the radar for even long-time residents. It’s these little places that really showcase our state, whether it’s our impressive food or diverse cultures or the oddities you can find here. One place we’re going to look at today is an old silver mining town found along a lonely stretch of highway in the western part of Arizona.It makes for an entertaining stop during a weekend trip!
Welcome to Chloride. Population, 400, give or take.
Today, it’s just a shell of its former self, which is probably why most people consider this place a living ghost town and drive right on by. But there’s still some pretty cool things you can find around here!
First, there's the town itself. Due to its history, you'll find quite a few old false front buildings and other hints of the quaint atmosphere of small town Arizona.
It sits at 4940 Elkhart Avenue, right next to the community park.
In this same area, you'll also find Cyanide Springs, a little row of wooden buildings that represents the town's past. You'll find historic buildings, shops, and gunfight re-enactments on Saturdays at high noon.
