Description
Arizona landscape photography, while on the road above Crown King, Arizona, on the way to Horsethief Basin – high in the Bradshaw Mountains, and is only 20 miles southeast of Prescott, AZ
The community is named after the Crowned King mine, but the name was shortened to Crown King in 1888. The site of a former gold mining town, this small hamlet is 28 miles west of Interstate 17 on Senator Highway. Arizona Landscape Photos by Pono Images.
There are about 100 full time residents and 400 summer cabins mostly owned by people that live in Phoenix. When Phoenix is 110 degrees Crown King is in the 80’s because of its 6,000 foot elevation.
Finding Crown King
You can reach this area of Arizona off Interstate 17, via a good gravel road which begins at the Bumble Bee exit (about 65 miles north of downtown Phoenix). Usually open even after a snow, this route will take you through the near-ghost-town communities of Bumble Bee and Cleator to Crown Point, following an abandoned railroad bed for most of the final leg of the drive. Read more. The road follows the old railroad route to the mines and has 4 scenic 180 degree switchbacks.
While there, you might want to visit the historic Crown King Saloon & Cafe. Open for over 110 years, this establishment is the oldest continuously operated saloon in the state of Arizona. With good food and drinks, pull up a seat at the bar! Enjoy one of their many rotating craft brews on tap, a fine wine, or their special Crown King Saloon labeled whiskey. They also offer live music and events frequently throughout the year.
The Horsethief Basin Recreation Area offers a variety of recreational opportunities. These including hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, camping, fishing, and OHV riding. The Castle Creek Wilderness is located nearby.
Latest posts by Pono Images (see all)
- Maui Wildfires – Wildfire Update - August 16, 2023
- “Mala Sunset Surf” – Now Available at Pono Images - April 21, 2020
