Route 66, once known as the Main Street of America, is a legendary highway that stretches from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California. Along this iconic road, there are several ghost towns that serve as reminders of the past and offer a glimpse into the history of the area. One such ghost town is located in Arizona, and it is a must-visit for any enthusiast of Route 66.
Bellemont Ghost Town
The Bellemont Ghost Town, located in Arizona, is nestled at an altitude of 2,200 meters. As the highest city on Route 66, Bellemont provides a picturesque setting, surrounded by a nature reserve. Although it is now considered a ghost town, Bellemont was once a vibrant community, serving as a popular stop for travelers along the famous highway.
Bellemont’s history dates back to the early 20th century when it became an important railroad junction. The town flourished with the arrival of the railroad and the subsequent growth of tourism along Route 66. However, with the decline of Route 66 as a major transportation route, Bellemont slowly faded into obscurity.
Today, the remnants of this once-thriving community can still be seen, with abandoned buildings, old gas stations, and remnants of its former glory. Exploring Bellemont gives visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and imagine what life was like during the heyday of Route 66.
Oatman Ghost Town
Another notable ghost town along Route 66 in Arizona is Oatman. Situated in the Black Mountains, Oatman was once a bustling gold mining town. Today, it is famous for its wild burros that roam the streets, remnants of the town’s mining past. Visitors can witness the daily ″burro show″ where these gentle creatures are fed by locals and tourists.
Walking through the streets of Oatman feels like stepping into the past. Many of the buildings have been lovingly preserved, and the town has maintained its old-west charm. Visitors can explore the shops, enjoy homemade fudge, and even watch reenactments of the wild west gunfights that were once common in this mining town. Oatman offers a unique and memorable experience for visitors traveling along Route 66.
Exploring Ghost Towns on Route 66
Arizona is not the only state along Route 66 with fascinating ghost towns. California, New Mexico, and other states also boast their fair share of abandoned communities that were once vibrant stops along the historic highway. Some notable ghost towns on Route 66 include Calico and Amboy in California, and Glenrio and Montoya in New Mexico.
Exploring these ghost towns is like stepping into the past. Visitors can soak in the rich history, marvel at the preserved architecture, and imagine what life was like during the heyday of Route 66. These ghost towns serve as reminders of a bygone era and offer a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience for travelers along the historic highway.
Conclusion
Ghost towns along Route 66 in Arizona, such as Bellemont and Oatman, provide a fascinating glimpse into the past. These towns were once bustling communities, serving as important stops along the legendary highway. Today, they offer visitors the chance to step back in time and experience the history and charm of Route 66. Whether you’re a history buff, a road trip enthusiast, or simply curious about the past, exploring these ghost towns is a must-see experience along the iconic Route 66.
