There’s A Little Town Hidden In The Arizona Mountains And It’s The Perfect Place To Relax
By Monica Spencer|Published December 01, 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.
This time of year can feel awfully hectic with final exams, traveling, shopping, planning get-togethers and getting ready for a brand new year. If you’re feeling an urge to take a quick break from your everyday life, why not head out to the mountains? Arizona is chock full of them and we even know of one town that would be the perfect location for a short winter vacation.
Crown King is a tiny town located deep in the Bradshaw Mountains, at least an hour’s drive from any other community of considerable size. The town’s roots date back to 1875 with gold mining and it has managed to survive through the decades as mining declined.
These days, the town is small and still difficult to reach. The area has a population of about 133 people, give or take, and accessing town requires a long, bumpy drive on Forest Road 59 for 30 miles, which can take as little as an hour to drive or as long as five!
Once there, you’ll find a quaint mountain town with towering trees that provide ample shade, dirt roads criss crossing town, and historic buildings that harken back to another time. For example, you’ll find the Crown King General Store that dates back to 1904.
There are also a couple of restaurants here where you can grab a meal or a cold drink while enjoying the chilly mountain air. If you’re lucky, you might even arrive on a day when live bands are playing on a stage.
Above, you'll find the popular Crown King Saloon, a saloon and brothel that is now a restaurant and inn. Other dining options include The Mill and the general store.
If you prefer your accommodations to be a just a wee bit quieter, try spending the night in one of the picturesque cabins. The Bradshaw Mountain Guest Ranch is one option where you can enjoy a peaceful getaway.
Have you visited Crown King before? What was your experience like? Also, be sure to let us know of other favorite mountain towns perfect for a quick retreat!
