By Andreas Schmalz—
While we’ve all probably unknowingly gazed in the general direction of Crown King when looking west from Sunset Point off the I-17, fewer of us have likely ventured to this historic mining town tucked high in the Bradshaw Mountains, yet less than a two-hour drive from North Phoenix.
Aptly named after the Crowned King Mine—the largest mine in the area with its first mining claim dating back to 1875—the town sits at a much cooler elevation of 5,771 feet.
There are several ways to get there, but no paved roads lead directly to the town. The most accessible route for those without a high-clearance 4-wheel drive vehicle is the 28-mile drive along County Road 59. Though the graded road is maintained, it is a bit rough, so adequate tires and a forgiving suspension are valuable.
The pavement ends just before the town of Bumble Bee (which has a sign boasting a progressively greater number of cattle and horses than people) and the journey begins. It’s in this area that the first mining districts in the Bradshaws were established back in 1864. It’s a good thing that the speed limit is reduced while driving through the town—if you blink, you might
miss it altogether.
Cleator is the next community on the way, which began in 1902 as a railroad work camp, and is presently known for its Bar & Yacht Club.
After Cleator, the drive continues at an increasing grade the rest of the way to Crown King.
While driving the switchbacks, consider that back in 1904 the Bradshaw Mountain Railway followed this same path.
Highlights in Crown King include the Crown King Saloon, which opened in 1917 and has the distinction of being the oldest continuously operating bar in Arizona; the General Store, established in 1904; and The Mill restaurant, which features a 10-stamp mill dating back to 1893. The Mill is currently only open on weekends from 11 a.m.–4 p.m., so it is advisable to check in advance for changes to their hours at http://crownkingmill.com.
If an overnight stay is part of your adventure, lodging options in town include Bear Creek Cabins, Crown King Cabins & Suites and Cedar Roost Inn.
Off-Roading Fun
For a more challenging adventure, Crown King can also be reached from the northern borders of Lake Pleasant Regional Park, but an off-road vehicle is a must, and the trail is a popular one among off-roaders.
From Crown King, a drive to the Horsethief Basin Recreation Area is a scenic trip, but one that requires the right kind of high-clearance vehicle. It’s about a 7-mile rough off-road drive leading to a beautiful lake open to non-motorized boating and fishing. Campsites include Hazlett Hollow Campground and Turney Gulch Group, and Horsethief Cabin which offers full amenities.
Rich in history, a visit to Crown King is more about the journey itself for those with an adventuresome spirit.
Getting There
Head north on I-17 for 33 to exit #248 Bumble Bee. Turn left and follow the dirt road for approximately 28 miles to Crown King.
Tip: While at the General Store, the book “Crown King and the SouthernBradshaws: A Complete History,” by Bruce M. Wilson can be purchased for more details about the town and the surrounding area.
Andreas Schmalz is a local Realtor and an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys trail hiking, nature photography, and scenic drives throughout Arizona.