About Scenic
Scenic is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) in Mohave County, Arizona, with a population of 1,321 as of the 2020 census. Located in the Arizona Strip along Scenic Boulevard, it is 8 miles northeast of Mesquite, Nevada, and 2 miles west of Littlefield, near Interstate 15. Bordering the Virgin River, Scenic is a small residential community offering a quiet, rural lifestyle with easy access to recreational areas and urban amenities in nearby Mesquite and St. George, Utah.
History and Origins
Scenic’s history is tied to the broader Arizona Strip, a remote region settled by Mormon pioneers in the late 19th century for farming and ranching. The community emerged as a residential area in the 20th century, likely named for its picturesque desert and mountain views. Its development was influenced by the growth of nearby Littlefield and Beaver Dam, with Interstate 15’s construction in the 1970s improving access. Scenic remains a small, unincorporated community, benefiting from its proximity to the Virgin River and cross-border economic ties with Nevada.
Geography and Environment
Located at 36°47′37″N 114°00′46″W, Scenic spans 16.4 square miles, all land, at an elevation of 1,706 feet. Situated in the Virgin River Valley, it is bordered by the Virgin Mountains to the east and the Beaver Dam Mountains to the west, offering scenic desert landscapes. The semi-arid climate features hot summers, mild winters, and minimal precipitation, with excellent air quality. The area has a low earthquake risk, high UV exposure, and flash flood risks along the Virgin River, but its open terrain supports stargazing and outdoor activities.
Demographics and Economy
Scenic has a median household income of approximately $40,000 and a median home value of $160,000, more affordable than 80% of Arizona neighborhoods. Housing consists primarily of mobile homes, RVs, and single-family homes, with 80% of residents owning their properties. The median age is estimated at 55, reflecting a retiree-heavy population, with 85% White (Non-Hispanic), 10% Hispanic, and 5% Native American. The economy is small, with residents commuting to Mesquite (8 miles southwest) or St. George, Utah (35 miles northeast), for jobs in retail, hospitality, or construction. Local employment is limited to small services.
Did You Know? Scenic’s location in the Arizona Strip makes it one of the most isolated communities in Mohave County, yet its proximity to Interstate 15 offers quick access to urban amenities in Mesquite, Nevada.
Education and Community Services
Scenic has no schools, with students attending the Littlefield Unified School District’s Beaver Dam Elementary and Beaver Dam High School, 2–3 miles away in Beaver Dam. Emergency services are provided by the Beaver Dam-Littlefield Fire District and Mohave County Sheriff’s Office, with medical facilities in Mesquite (Mesquite Medical Center, 8 miles away) or St. George (Dixie Regional Medical Center, 35 miles away). Residents rely on Mesquite for shopping, dining, and libraries, with minimal local amenities like a small market.
Recreation and Attractions
- Virgin River Gorge: 5 miles south, a scenic canyon along Interstate 15 with hiking trails, rock climbing, and photography opportunities.
- Virgin River: 1 mile east, offering fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching in a serene desert setting.
- Mesquite, Nevada: 8 miles southwest, providing casinos, golf courses, and dining for day trips and entertainment.
- Zion National Park: 55 miles northeast, accessible via St. George, featuring world-class hiking and stunning red rock landscapes.
Lifestyle and Appeal
Scenic offers a rural lifestyle with a population density of 80 people per square mile, ideal for retirees and those seeking solitude. The average commute to Mesquite is 10–15 minutes, with many residents retired or working across the state line. The community is small and low-key, with a focus on outdoor living and desert tranquility. Its affordability, scenic views, and proximity to urban amenities in Mesquite make it appealing, though summer heat and flash flood risks require preparation.
Plan Your Visit
Reach Scenic via Interstate 15 or Scenic Boulevard from Mesquite, Nevada (8 miles southwest) or Littlefield (2 miles east). Explore the Virgin River Gorge, enjoy water activities along the Virgin River, or visit Mesquite for casinos and golf. St. George, Utah, 35 miles northeast, offers urban conveniences and access to Zion National Park. For extended trips, Las Vegas is 85 miles southwest, and the Grand Canyon North Rim is 130 miles southeast. Scenic is a peaceful base for exploring the Arizona Strip.