About Colorado City
Colorado City is an incorporated town in Mohave County, Arizona, located in the Arizona Strip, a remote region north of the Grand Canyon. With a population of 4,832 as of the 2020 census, up from 4,821 in 2010, Colorado City is the largest community in the Short Creek valley, closely linked to Hildale, Utah, just across the state line. Known for its unique history and evolving community, it serves as a hub for the region.
History and Origins
Founded in 1913 as Short Creek by Mormon pioneers, Colorado City was initially a farming and ranching settlement. The community grew in the 1930s under the leadership of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS), establishing it as a center for polygamist families. Named for the Colorado River, the town incorporated in 1985. Recent decades have seen significant changes, with declining FLDS influence leading to a more diverse population and revitalization efforts, including new businesses and community programs. The Short Creek Dream Center, established in 2016, supports residents transitioning from FLDS life, marking a new chapter for the town.
Geography and Environment
Located at 36°59′25″N 112°58′34″W, Colorado City covers 10.3 square miles at an elevation of 4,970 feet. Situated in the Short Creek valley, it is framed by the Vermilion Cliffs to the north and the Kaibab Plateau to the south, offering dramatic desert vistas. The semi-arid climate features hot summers, cold winters, and occasional monsoon rains that support limited agriculture along Short Creek. The Arizona Strip’s isolation fosters a peaceful setting, with moderate risks of flash flooding and high UV exposure typical of the desert.
Demographics and Economy
Colorado City has a median household income of $45,000 and a median real estate price of $220,000, more affordable than 76.8% of Arizona neighborhoods. Housing includes large single-family homes and some mobile homes, with 70% of residents owning their properties. The economy is driven by agriculture (alfalfa, orchards), small businesses (grocery stores, cafes), and construction, with many residents commuting to St. George, Utah (37 miles northeast). The median age is 29.8, with a young population due to high birth rates. Ancestry is predominantly English (48.2%) and German (14.3%), with 22.6% of households below the poverty line.
Did You Know? Colorado City and Hildale host the annual Short Creek Freedom Festival, celebrating community resilience with music, food, and family activities, symbolizing the area’s cultural transformation.
Education and Community Services
Colorado City is served by the Colorado City Unified School District, with El Capitan Public School (K-12) providing education for local students. Some families choose homeschooling, reflecting the community’s independent spirit. The Colorado City Fire Department and Hildale Police Department ensure safety, with the nearest hospital in St. George, Utah. The town has a library, community center, and growing amenities like the Short Creek Bakery, fostering a sense of community.
Recreation and Attractions
- Vermilion Cliffs National Monument: 25 miles east, offering hiking, photography, and access to iconic sites like The Wave (permit required) and Buckskin Gulch.
- Zion National Park: 40 miles northeast, reachable via St. George, featuring world-class hiking, rock climbing, and scenic drives.
- Short Creek Trails: Local trails around Short Creek are ideal for hiking, off-roading, and horseback riding, with views of the Vermilion Cliffs.
- Community Events: The Short Creek Freedom Festival and pioneer heritage celebrations bring residents together with parades, crafts, and local food.
Lifestyle and Appeal
Colorado City offers a rural, community-focused lifestyle with a population density of 469 people per square mile. The average commute time is 15–20 minutes, often to Hildale or St. George. The town appeals to families, newcomers, and those seeking affordable living in a scenic, isolated setting. Recent revitalization has brought new businesses and inclusivity, making it a welcoming hub. Residents manage moderate risks of flash flooding and extreme temperatures.
Plan Your Visit
Access Colorado City via Arizona State Route 389 from Fredonia (27 miles east) or Interstate 15 through St. George, Utah (37 miles northeast). Explore the Vermilion Cliffs, Zion National Park, or the Grand Canyon’s North Rim (2 hours south). Visit local cafes like the Short Creek Bakery or attend a community festival to experience the town’s evolving culture. Colorado City offers a unique blend of history, community spirit, and access to the Southwest’s stunning landscapes.