Crown King, Arizona

Crown King came into existence in the late 1800s as the largest mining operation in the Bradshaw Mountains. At that time, the mill was known as the Crowned King Mine, but years later it was shortened to its current name.

Today, Crown King, population roughly around 100, is a popular destination for off-roaders who like the challenge of the road that once was a railroad route for the mining town. The road traverses incredible terrain that rises from 2000 to nearly 6000 feet in elevation.

For non-off-roaders, the FS 259 can be caught off the Interstate 17, following a 24-mile hard packed dirt road with good signage to Crown King.

On the way to Crown King, one passes through the near-ghost town of Cleator. Not much is there except its whimsical nature that creates both smiles and questions.

Crown King has no paved roads, and certainly no traffic lights. But it does have a great eating place (seen above), a general store, a chapel and a few other buildings including guest lodging.

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The following photos were taken on a return trip to Crown King. Because I drove my own vehicle this time, my two travel partners and I were able to spend more time at our stops...which were much more frequent!

Cleator is another stop along the road to Crown King. It was established in 1884 as Turkey Creek. In 1905, gold prospector James Cleator bought the town and eventually changed its name to Cleator. But in 1920, the population dwindled along with the gold mining. James Cleator died in the late 1950s.

Taking the gravel-packed car to Crown King from the Bloody Basin exit on I-17, one will eventually reach the ghost town of Cordes, seen here. It was established in 1883 by German immigrant Henry Cordes. Its history is rich, and the latest descendent seems to be his granddaughter Cathy. No recent information is available on her.