About Pine Lake
Pine Lake is an unincorporated community in Mohave County, Arizona, with an estimated population of under 150 residents. Located in the Hualapai Mountains along Hualapai Mountain Road, it is 15 miles southeast of Kingman and within the Hualapai Mountain Park area. Known for its forested surroundings and small lake, Pine Lake is a residential and recreational enclave, attracting retirees, seasonal residents, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a peaceful escape from the desert heat of nearby Kingman.
History and Origins
Pine Lake’s history is tied to the Hualapai people, who have lived in the region for centuries, using the mountains for hunting and gathering. The community developed in the 20th century as a retreat area, with cabins and homes built around the small Pine Lake, likely named for its surrounding ponderosa pines. The establishment of Hualapai Mountain Park in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps boosted the area’s recreational appeal, making Pine Lake a hub for seasonal residents and visitors. It remains a quiet, unincorporated area under Mohave County governance.
Geography and Environment
Located at approximately 35°05′30″N 113°52′30″W, Pine Lake spans an estimated 1 square mile, all land, at an elevation of 6,800 feet. Nestled in the Hualapai Mountains, it is surrounded by pine forests and rugged peaks, offering cooler temperatures than the surrounding desert. The semi-arid climate features warm summers, cold winters with occasional snow, and minimal precipitation, with excellent air quality. The area has a moderate earthquake risk, moderate UV exposure, and low flash flood risk due to its elevation, making it ideal for stargazing and outdoor activities.
Demographics and Economy
Pine Lake has a median household income estimated at $45,000 and a median home value of $200,000, more affordable than 70% of Arizona neighborhoods. Housing consists primarily of cabins, mobile homes, and small single-family homes, with most residents owning their properties. The median age is estimated at 65, reflecting a retiree-heavy population, predominantly White (Non-Hispanic) with small percentages of Hispanic and Native American residents. The economy is minimal, with residents commuting to Kingman (15 miles northwest) for jobs in retail, healthcare, or services, or living off retirement income.
Did You Know? Pine Lake’s high elevation of 6,800 feet makes it one of the coolest communities in Mohave County, offering a forested escape from the desert heat, with winter snow attracting seasonal visitors.
Education and Community Services
Pine Lake has no schools, with students attending Kingman Unified School District facilities, such as Black Mountain Elementary or Kingman High School, 15–20 miles away. Emergency services are provided by the Pine Lake Fire Department and Mohave County Sheriff’s Office, with medical facilities in Kingman (Kingman Regional Medical Center). Residents rely on Kingman for shopping, dining, and libraries, with minimal local amenities beyond a small community center and park facilities at Hualapai Mountain Park.
Recreation and Attractions
- Hualapai Mountain Park: Adjacent to Pine Lake, offering 10 miles of hiking trails, camping, cabins, and scenic views from peaks like Hayden Peak.
- Pine Lake: A small, scenic lake ideal for fishing (stocked with trout), picnicking, and quiet reflection, surrounded by pine forests.
- Historic Route 66: 15 miles northwest in Kingman, featuring the Route 66 Museum and vintage diners for nostalgic road trip experiences.
- Grand Canyon Skywalk: 80 miles northeast, a Hualapai Tribe-operated glass bridge with stunning Grand Canyon views, accessible via U.S. Route 93.
Lifestyle and Appeal
Pine Lake offers a rural, mountain lifestyle with a population density of under 150 people per square mile, ideal for retirees, seasonal residents, and outdoor enthusiasts. The community is small and quiet, with a low crime rate and a focus on nature-based living. Its high elevation, forested surroundings, and proximity to Hualapai Mountain Park are key draws, though winter snow and limited services require self-sufficiency. Residents enjoy a tight-knit community with occasional park-hosted events like stargazing nights.
Plan Your Visit
Reach Pine Lake via Hualapai Mountain Road from Kingman (15 miles northwest) or Interstate 40. Explore Hualapai Mountain Park’s trails and cabins, fish at Pine Lake, or visit Kingman’s Route 66 Museum. Kingman offers dining, shopping, and lodging for nearby conveniences. For extended trips, the Grand Canyon Skywalk is 80 miles northeast, and Lake Havasu City is 75 miles south. Pine Lake is a tranquil retreat for mountain lovers and nature enthusiasts.