About Clacks Canyon
Clacks Canyon is a small, unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) in Mohave County, Arizona, with a population of approximately 200 as of the 2020 census. Located just 5 miles northwest of Kingman in the Cerbat Mountains foothills, Clacks Canyon is a remote desert enclave known for its rugged landscapes, historic mining roots, and appeal to those seeking solitude and off-grid lifestyles.
History and Origins
Clacks Canyon’s history is tied to the mining boom of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when the Cerbat Mountains were a hotspot for silver, gold, and lead extraction. The community likely takes its name from Clacks Canyon Mine, an early mining operation in the area. While the mines largely closed by the mid-20th century, remnants of this era, such as old shafts and tailings, dot the landscape. The community grew as a quiet retreat for those drawn to the desert’s solitude, with development spurred by Kingman’s growth and proximity to U.S. Route 93.
Geography and Environment
Located at approximately 35°14′30″N 114°7′45″W, Clacks Canyon spans about 1.2 square miles at an elevation of 3,600 feet. Nestled in a desert valley with the Cerbat Mountains to the west and the Hualapai Mountains visible to the south, the area features rocky terrain, sparse vegetation, and expansive views. The semi-arid climate brings hot summers and mild winters, with occasional monsoon rains. The region has a moderate earthquake risk and high UV exposure, typical of Arizona’s desert environment, but low risks of other natural disasters.
Demographics and Economy
Clacks Canyon is a low-income community with a median household income of around $28,000 and a median real estate price of $120,000, more affordable than 93.7% of Arizona neighborhoods. Housing consists mainly of mobile homes, RVs, and small cabins, with 80% of residents owning their properties, often on large lots for privacy. The economy is minimal, with most residents working in Kingman (a 10-minute drive) in retail, construction, or services, or living off-grid with supplemental income. The median age is 58.4, with a small, retiree-heavy population of English (20.3%), German (18.6%), and Irish (12.9%) ancestry.
Did You Know? Clacks Canyon’s remote setting makes it a stargazing haven, with minimal light pollution offering clear views of the Milky Way, attracting amateur astronomers from Kingman and beyond.
Education and Community Services
Clacks Canyon is served by the Kingman Unified School District, with students attending schools in Kingman, such as Cerbat Elementary and Kingman High School, about 5 miles away. Emergency services are provided by the Golden Valley Fire Department and Mohave County Sheriff’s Office, with medical facilities available in Kingman, including the Kingman Regional Medical Center. The community lacks local amenities like stores or libraries, relying on Kingman for shopping and services.
Recreation and Attractions
- Cerbat Mountains Trails: Nearby trails, such as those in the Cerbat Foothills Recreation Area, offer hiking, mountain biking, and off-roading with views of abandoned mine sites.
- Kingman Attractions: A short drive to Kingman provides access to the Route 66 Museum, Mohave Museum of History and Arts, and historic downtown dining.
- Hualapai Mountain Park: 20 miles south, this park offers hiking, camping, and cooler temperatures amid pine forests, ideal for day trips.
- Desert Exploration: The surrounding desert is popular for rockhounding, geocaching, and 4x4 adventures, with old mining roads to explore (caution advised near open shafts).
Lifestyle and Appeal
Clacks Canyon offers a rural, off-grid lifestyle with an extremely low population density of about 167 people per square mile. The average commute time is 10–15 minutes to Kingman for work or supplies. The community attracts retirees, survivalists, and desert enthusiasts seeking affordability and solitude, with many homes relying on solar power and well water. Community events are rare, but residents often gather informally for stargazing or trail rides. The area has moderate risks of wildfires and extreme summer heat.
Plan Your Visit
Reach Clacks Canyon via U.S. Route 93 from Kingman (5 miles south) or Interstate 40, taking the Stockton Hill Road exit. Explore the nearby Cerbat Mountains trails, visit Kingman for Route 66 nostalgia, or enjoy a quiet night of stargazing in the desert. For broader adventures, Lake Mead is 60 miles northwest, and Las Vegas is 100 miles away. Clacks Canyon is a perfect retreat for those craving a minimalist, desert lifestyle with easy access to Kingman’s amenities.