Arizona is celebrated for its breathtaking deserts, rugged peaks, and expansive open areas. Beyond the well-worn trails of cities such as Phoenix and Tucson are undiscovered treasures—small communities that provide serenity, calmness, and a hint of adventure. If you’re aiming to flee the chaos and noise, these ten remote towns deliver an excellent getaway. From mountainous getaways to ancient mining towns, each one presents a distinct piece of Arizona’s abundant landscape and heritage.
10. Concho: A Serene Haven on the Colorado Plateau
Situated within the expansive vistas of the Colorado Plateau, Concho is a tiny community with a population of just over 200 inhabitants. This tranquil area has a rich past, with origins stemming from Hispanic settlers in the late 1800s. Guests can savor the serenity of Concho Lake, a secluded gem perfect for fishing and picnicking, or discover local petroglyphs that echo stories of ancient civilizations. The local economy is modest, relying on ranching and small-scale agriculture to sustain the community. What keeps Concho truly isolated is its remote location among vast plains and its distance from busy urban areas. With minimal light interference, it serves as an ideal location for stargazing, providing unobstructed vistas of Arizona’s clear night skies.
Where is Concho?
Concho can be found in northeastern Arizona, situated in Apache County, approximately 30 miles east of Show Low. Its remoteness results from its position away from major highways, enveloped by the serene charm of the high desert and vast open lands. The town is reached through State Route 61, providing a tranquil escape from bustling traffic and city sounds. Travelers in search of a quiet sanctuary will discover Concho to be a delightful getaway, accessible via a scenic drive through Arizona’s remarkable landscapes.
9. Oatman: Where Wild Burros Wander Historic Streets
Nestled against the rugged scenery of the Black Mountains, Oatman is an eccentric ghost town home to roughly 100 inhabitants. Once a thriving gold mining district in the early 1900s, it now enchants visitors with its preserved Wild West atmosphere. The streets of Oatman are famously traversed by friendly wild burros, offspring of the pack animals once utilized by prospectors, adding a unique and endearing allure. Tourists can discover the historic Oatman Hotel, explore artisanal boutiques, and observe staged gunfights that bring the town’s rich heritage to life. While tourism remains essential, Oatman’s remoteness arises from its position along a secluded stretch of the historic Route 66, frequently bypassed by casual travelers. The town’s rustic structures and narrow, twisting roads enhance its off-the-beaten-path charm, transforming it into a hidden gem in Arizona’s expansive desert.
Where is Oatman?
Oatman is positioned in northwestern Arizona, in Mohave County, located within the Black Mountains. Its remoteness is a result of its distance from the primary interstates, accessible via the historic and scenic Route 66, which meanders through stunning desert environments. The town sits approximately 28 miles southwest of Kingman and 20 miles east of the Colorado River and Bullhead City. To reach Oatman, visitors embark on a picturesque drive along Route 66, navigating sharp bends and steep inclines that unveil breathtaking views, further enhancing the sensation of traveling to a past era.
8. Young: The Veiled Valley of the Sierra Ancha
Hidden in the heart of the Sierra Ancha Mountains, Young is a small community comprising around 600 inhabitants. Steeped in history, it was the focal point of the notorious Pleasant Valley War, a range dispute between cattlemen and sheep herders in the late 19th century. Today, Young maintains its ranching legacy, with extensive ranches still scattered throughout the valley and cattle roaming in open fields. Outdoor lovers can partake in hiking, horseback riding, and exploring the surrounding Tonto National Forest. Young’s isolation is emphasized by its distant mountainous location, limited cell reception, and absence of urbanization, offering a true escape into nature. It’s a realm where time slows down, and the rustic essence of frontier life remains tangible.
Where is Young?
Young is situated in central Arizona, within Gila County, hidden in the secluded Pleasant Valley of the Sierra Ancha mountain range. Its isolation arises from being surrounded by the vast stretches of the Tonto National Forest and a series of unpaved roads. The town is accessible via Arizona State Route 288, a scenic pathway that snakes through dense forests and rugged terrain. Visitors should prepare for a rural adventure, as the drive to Young offers stunning views but limited services, reinforcing the town’s tucked-away charm.
7. Alpine: Retreat to Arizona’s Mountain Paradise
At an altitude exceeding 8,000 feet in the White Mountains, Alpine is a mountainous paradise home to about 150 residents. Renowned for its cool climate and lush meadows, it serves as a sanctuary for those longing for relief from Arizona’s desert heat. The town offers an array of outdoor pursuits, such as fishing in nearby lakes and streams, hiking through the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, and camping under a canopy of stars. With quaint local businesses and cozy lodges, tourism and recreation form the backbone of the community’s economy. Alpine’s seclusion is defined by its distant placement amidst expansive forests and its limited connectivity, creating an idyllic escape for nature aficionados and seekers of tranquillity alike.
Where is Alpine?
Alpine is found in eastern Arizona, near the New Mexico boundary, within Apache County. Its seclusion is attributed to its high-altitude location in the White Mountains, well away from major thoroughfares and urban locales. The town is reached via U.S. Route 191, also known as the Coronado Trail Scenic Byway, which showcases breathtaking mountain landscapes but demands careful navigation through twisting roads. This remote journey adds to Alpine’s allure, providing guests with a feeling of truly escaping into the pristine mountain environments of Arizona.
6. Arivaca: Tranquility Amidst Desert Vistas
Lying within the rolling hills of southern Arizona, Arivaca is a peaceful ranching community with approximately 700 residents. The town boasts a rich history, with ties back to Native American groups and Spanish explorers. Nature enthusiasts can visit the nearby Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge, a sanctuary for birdwatching and wildlife observation. The tranquil desert landscapes are ideal for hiking and engrossing oneself in the serene beauty of the Sonoran Desert. Arivaca’s solitude arises from its remote proximity to the U.S.-Mexico border, presenting a peaceful escape from contemporary life. Its small local enterprises and cohesive community signify a lifestyle that cherishes simplicity and a deep connection to the land.
Where is Arivaca?
Arivaca is situated in Pima County, approximately 60 miles southwest of Tucson, Arizona. The town’s remoteness is partly due to its distance from major highways and its location amid vast desert vistas. Accessible via Arivaca Road off Interstate 19, the journey to the town takes travelers through scenic desert landscapes and rolling pastures. This off-the-beaten-path destination ensures that Arivaca remains a tranquil sanctuary, providing seclusion and a profound connection to the natural environment.
5. Chloride: Step Back in Time in Arizona’s Oldest Mining Settlement
Located at the foothills of the Cerbat Mountains, Chloride is Arizona’s oldest continuously inhabited mining settlement, currently home to around 350 residents. Established in the 1860s during the silver mining rush, the town acts as a living museum of the Old West. Visitors can wander historic paths, admire vibrant murals painted on adjacent canyon walls, and investigate the remains of old mines. The town’s mining legacy is evident, with artifacts and stories from its lively past at every turn. Chloride’s remoteness arises from its position off the main tourist routes, ensconced within rugged landscapes that offer a peaceful refuge. Its mix of history, art, and rustic appeal creates a singular destination that evokes a sense of stepping back in time.
Where is Chloride?
Chloride is positioned in northwestern Arizona, in Mohave County, approximately 23 miles northwest of Kingman. Its secluded environment is due to its location away from major thoroughfares, accessible via a minor detour from U.S. Route 93. The town is surrounded by desert landscapes and the Cerbat Mountains, providing a scenic and secluded backdrop. To arrive at Chloride, visitors traverse open desert terrains, enhancing the sense of remoteness and allowing them to fully appreciate the town’s historical and serene atmosphere.
4. Supai: The Secluded Settlement in the Grand Canyon
Deep within the Grand Canyon, Supai is a secluded village with around 200 residents, inhabited by the Havasupai Tribe. Famous for its stunning Havasu Falls, where turquoise waters cascade over red rock cliffs, it’s a wonderland for nature lovers and thrill-seekers. Supai represents one of the most isolated communities in the contiguous United States, where mail is still transported by mule. The tribe upholds traditional lifestyles, allowing visitors to experience their rich culture and the area’s breathtaking natural beauty. The seclusion of Supai is unmatched; it is the only place in the U.S. where mail is delivered by pack animal, and modern amenities are scarce. The village provides a rare chance to completely disconnect, immersing oneself in awe-inspiring surroundings.
Where is Supai?
Supai is positioned at the base of the Grand Canyon in northwestern Arizona, within Coconino County. Its inaccessibility marks its isolation; the village can only be reached by a challenging eight-mile hike, horseback ride, or helicopter flight departing from Hualapai Hilltop. No roads directly lead to Supai, and it maintains a disconnect from the outside world by vehicle, intensifying its remote nature. Reaching Supai requires planning and effort, but those who undertake the journey are rewarded with one of Arizona’s most unique and untouched destinations.
3. Portal: Entryway to the Treasures of Chiricahua
Located at the entrance of Cave Creek Canyon, Portal is a small community with an estimated residence of about 100. Renowned for its rich biodiversity, the area is a sanctuary for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts, showcasing rare species in their natural habitats. The breathtaking landscapes of the Chiricahua Mountains supply a stunning backdrop for hiking, photography, and exploration of unique rock formations and ecosystems. Portal’s economy centers around tourism linked to its natural attractions, alongside a close-knit community of scientists and artists attracted by its tranquility. The town’s seclusion is amplified by its remote placement and limited commercial development, establishing it as a peaceful gateway to the wonders of the Chiricahua wilderness.
Where is Portal?
Portal is found in southeastern Arizona, in Cochise County, close to the New Mexico border. It resides at the eastern base of the Chiricahua Mountains, far from urban centers and main highways. Accessible via Portal Road off State Route 80, the journey to Portal presents a route through expansive desert plains and into mountainous terrains. The town’s isolated environment and the encompassing preserved lands contribute to its secluded atmosphere, making it a perfect location for those seeking tranquility and a profound bond with nature.
2. Greer: A Peaceful Getaway in the White Mountains
Elevated at around 8,300 feet in the White Mountains, Greer is a peaceful alpine village home to about 50 permanent inhabitants. Recognized for its lush forests, winding streams, and refreshing temperatures, it’s a favored spot for those seeking refuge from Arizona’s desert heat. Guests can partake in year-long activities like fishing in the Little Colorado River, hiking pristine trails, and during winter, skiing at the nearby Sunrise Park Resort. The village’s economy focuses on tourism, with cozy cabins and lodges providing idyllic stays amidst nature. Greer’s isolation results from its remote mountain setting, limited commercial activity, and the peaceful atmosphere that envelops the community. It’s a locale where the most prominent sounds are the rustling of leaves and the gentle babbling of water.
Where is Greer?
Greer is nestled within eastern Arizona’s Apache County, situated in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests. Its remote location is underscored by its distance from major roads, accessible via State Route 373 off U.S. Route 260. The village is roughly 20 miles south of Springerville and Eagar, the closest towns with noteworthy conveniences. This tucked-away placement amid dense forests and towering mountain summits renders Greer a concealed retreat, delivering solitude and natural allure far from the clamor of urban life.
1. Crown King: Arizona’s Concealed Mountain Treasure
Concealed deep within the Bradshaw Mountains, Crown King is a historic mining settlement home to a small population of around 100 residents. Once a thriving gold mining center in the late 1800s, today it presents a mix of rustic elegance and adventurous spirit. Guests can wander through the remnants of its mining heritage, including the original Crown King Saloon, or embark on hiking and off-roading trails that trace through the neighboring pine forests. The economy is centered around tourism, with local businesses servicing those in search of a mountainous getaway. Crown King’s isolation is a defining feature of its charm; reachable only via a lengthy dirt road that meanders through rugged landscape, it remains unspoiled by modern developments. This remoteness grants visitors the chance to step back in time and relish the serene beauty of Arizona’s highlands.
Where is Crown King?
Crown King is positioned in central Arizona’s Yavapai County, to the northwest of Phoenix. The town’s secluded character is attributed to its elevation high in the Bradshaw Mountains, away from major thoroughfares and urban settings. Access is chiefly through Crown King Road (County Road 59), a 27-mile unpaved path that necessitates a robust vehicle and a sense of adventure. This expedition through thick forests and mountainous landscapes elevates the feeling of seclusion, culminating in the discovery of this concealed mountain jewel that feels worlds apart from the desert below.
