About Antares
Antares is a small, unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) in Mohave County, Arizona, with a population of 132 as of the 2020 census. Nestled in the Hualapai Valley, 21 miles northeast of Kingman, Antares is a hidden gem along historic U.S. Route 66, known for its unique history, quirky attractions, and serene desert landscapes.
History and Origins
Antares began as a railroad siding in 1883 when the Atlantic and Pacific Railroad navigated around the Peacock Mountains. The tracks curved through the Hualapai Valley, creating what is now called Antares Point, the longest continuous curve on any U.S. highway, stretching about 2 miles. The community was named after the red supergiant star Antares in the Scorpio constellation, meaning "rival of Mars" due to its vivid red hue.
The siding became a recognized community after the National Old Trails Highway was built in 1910, followed by Route 66 in 1926, both paralleling the railroad. Antares was officially recorded as a town and railroad station in a 1923 U.S. Geological Survey.
Attractions and Landmarks
- Giganticus Headicus: A 14-foot-tall tiki-style Moai head at the former Rancheros Motel, created by artist Gregg Arnold in 2004. This kitschy Route 66 landmark, reminiscent of Easter Island statues, draws visitors for its quirky Americana charm.
- Antares Point: The iconic 2-mile curve along Route 66, offering scenic views and a nod to the road’s historic significance as the longest remaining segment of Route 66 in the U.S.
- Antares Road: A county-maintained, mostly unpaved road (County Highway 149) stretching 32 miles north to Pierce Ferry Road, providing access to Meadview and Lake Mead. It’s suitable for all vehicles and offers a rugged desert adventure.
Did You Know? An unconfirmed urban legend suggests that Gene Roddenberry, creator of Star Trek, stayed at the Rancheros Motel in Antares and named a starship after the community. Whether true or not, it adds a fun layer to Antares’ lore!
Geography and Environment
Antares spans just 0.65 square miles at an elevation of 3,556 feet. It sits near the northern edge of the Peacock Mountains, with the dramatic Grand Wash Cliffs visible to the north. The area is surrounded by desert landscapes, with over 6,000 mining claims (mostly closed) for copper, gold, lead, and silver, reflecting its rich mining history.
The community enjoys a low risk of natural disasters like tornadoes and hurricanes, though it has a moderate earthquake risk and high UV exposure typical of Arizona’s desert climate.
Community and Lifestyle
With a median age of 65.3 and a population of just 94 in 2022, Antares offers a quiet, suburban-rural lifestyle. Most residents own their homes, often mobile homes or RVs, and the cost of living is below the national average (83.8 vs. 100). The community is tight-knit, with mailboxes centralized at the Route 66–Antares Road intersection for convenience.
Antares is close to Valle Vista, a planned community 4 miles west, and Hackberry, 6 miles southeast, offering additional amenities. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Hualapai Valley and Grand Canyon–Parashant National Monument provide hiking, off-roading, and stunning vistas.
Plan Your Visit
Antares is accessible via Route 66 from Kingman (west) or Seligman (east), or via I-40 and U.S. 93 from Las Vegas. Stop by to snap a photo with the Giganticus Headicus, explore the historic Route 66 curve, or venture north on Antares Road for a desert drive to Lake Mead. This small community packs a big punch for history buffs, road trippers, and those seeking Arizona’s offbeat charm.