Crown King

**hardins1** · Posted: Sat Aug 04, 2007 2:10 pm Post subject: Crown King

Crown King is located in the pine-laden forest of the Bradshaw Mountains, in the Prescott National Forest approximately one hour from Phoenix. With four gentle seasons you can experience an awesome snow-covered winter wonderland, the colorful falling leaves of autumn, spring flowers aplenty, refreshing monsoons and warm sultry afternoons with the birds and butterflies of summer. There are miles and miles of trails for hiking, biking, and off-roading, or just communing with nature, with something for everyone, from easy to challenging. Take I-17 North to exit 248 (Bumble Bee exit) and follow the payment until it ends there are staging areas along the dirt road. From their the ride is approximately 28 miles into Crown King

For another option, you can reach Crown King by driving north up U. S. Forest Service roads from Lake Pleasant, located off State Highway 74, about 35 miles north northwest of downtown Phoenix. Going North on I-17 (from Phoenix), take Exit 233, which is the Carefree Highway, and go West. Proceed approximately 5.6 miles to the Stop sign, which is at the intersection of SR74. Turn right onto SR74 and proceed another 5.5 miles to the intersection of SR74 and Castle Hot Springs Road. Turn right onto Castle Hot Springs Road.

You can drive another scenic route to Crown King by traveling south on Senator "Highway," which is, in fact, another rough dirt road, nearly 40 miles in length.

Whichever route you choose, you will be rewarded in Crown King with a look back into the world of a late 19th and early 20th century mining town, clear, fresh mountain air, endless blue skies by day with countless stars in the evening, breathtaking mountain views with true peace and tranquility await you. Crown King offers you the opportunity to experience the sights, sounds and history of this secluded ghost town, 6000 feet above the desert floor.