About Cane Beds
Cane Beds is a small, unincorporated census-designated place (CDP) in Mohave County, Arizona, located in the Arizona Strip, a remote region north of the Grand Canyon. With a population of 448 as of the 2020 census, down from 498 in 2010, Cane Beds is a tight-knit community known for its agricultural heritage and serene desert surroundings, just 4 miles southwest of Colorado City.
History and Origins
Cane Beds was settled in the late 19th century by pioneers, primarily Mormon families, who were drawn to the fertile Short Creek valley for farming and ranching. The community’s name likely derives from the cane-like reeds growing along Short Creek, a seasonal waterway that supported early agriculture. Cane Beds developed alongside nearby Colorado City and Centennial Park, sharing a history tied to the region’s polygamist communities, though it remains a distinct, quiet enclave focused on rural living.
Geography and Environment
Located at 36°55′36″N 112°55′45″W, Cane Beds covers 8.3 square miles at an elevation of 5,000 feet. The community sits in the Short Creek valley, surrounded by the Vermilion Cliffs to the north and the Kaibab Plateau to the south. The Arizona Strip’s isolation, separated from the rest of Arizona by the Grand Canyon, fosters a sense of seclusion, with expansive desert vistas and occasional monsoon-driven streams. The climate is semi-arid, with hot summers and cold winters, suitable for agriculture and outdoor activities.
Demographics and Economy
Cane Beds is a low-income community with a median household income of approximately $35,000 and a median real estate price of $180,000, more affordable than 85.6% of Arizona neighborhoods. Housing consists mainly of single-family homes and mobile homes, with 78% of residents owning their properties. The economy is driven by small-scale agriculture (alfalfa, fruit orchards), ranching, and some residents commuting to Colorado City or St. George, Utah (40 miles northeast) for work.
The population is predominantly of English (40.2%) and German (15.7%) ancestry, with a median age of 32.4, reflecting a mix of young families and older residents. The community has a high birth rate and a focus on family-oriented living, with 28.3% of households living below the poverty line, indicating economic challenges.
Did You Know? Cane Beds’ proximity to the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument makes it a lesser-known gateway for hikers and photographers seeking the stunning red rock formations and slot canyons of the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness.
Education and Community Services
Cane Beds is served by the Colorado City Unified School District, with students attending El Capitan Public School (K-12) in nearby Colorado City. Some families opt for homeschooling, common in the region. Emergency services are provided by the Colorado City Fire Department and Hildale Police Department, with the nearest medical facilities in St. George, Utah. The community relies on shared resources with Colorado City, including a small library and local markets.
Recreation and Attractions
- Vermilion Cliffs National Monument: 20 miles east, this monument offers hiking, photography, and access to famous sites like The Wave (permit required) and Buckskin Gulch.
- Zion National Park: 45 miles northeast, this iconic park provides world-class hiking, rock climbing, and scenic drives, reachable via a short drive through Hurricane, Utah.
- Short Creek Recreation: Seasonal streams allow for light hiking and nature exploration, while nearby desert trails are popular for off-roading and horseback riding.
- Colorado City Community Events: Cane Beds residents often participate in local festivals, such as pioneer heritage celebrations, featuring music, food, and crafts.
Lifestyle and Appeal
Cane Beds offers a rural, community-focused lifestyle with a low population density of 54 people per square mile. The average commute time is 15–20 minutes, often to Colorado City or Hildale, Utah. The community appeals to those seeking solitude, affordable living, and a connection to nature, with a strong emphasis on family and self-sufficiency. Residents are accustomed to the region’s isolation, with moderate risks of flash flooding and high UV exposure typical of the desert climate.
Plan Your Visit
Access Cane Beds via Arizona State Route 389 from Fredonia (30 miles east) or Interstate 15 through St. George, Utah (40 miles northeast). Use Cane Beds as a base to explore the Vermilion Cliffs, Zion National Park, or the Grand Canyon’s North Rim (2 hours south). Stop by Colorado City for local dining or markets, or enjoy the quiet trails around Short Creek. Cane Beds is a hidden retreat for those seeking rural charm and proximity to some of the Southwest’s most stunning landscapes.