TranslateOverview
Chloride, Arizona sits in Mohave County roughly 20 miles north of Kingman, tucked into the foothills of the Cactus Plain near the southern tip of the Hualapai Mountains. It is widely regarded as Arizona's oldest continuously inhabited mining town, with roots going back to silver strikes in the 1860s. At its peak, Chloride supported thousands of residents, numerous saloons, and active mines producing silver, gold, lead, and zinc.
Today the population is a few hundred people, and the town wears its age proudly. Many original or restored buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries line the short main street. The pace is deliberate and quiet, making Chloride a genuine contrast to the developed tourism corridors of the Southwest.
Visitors come primarily to walk the streets, browse the small collection of antique and art shops, view the famous outdoor rock murals painted by artist Roy Purcell in the 1970s, and absorb the layered history of a place that never quite became a ghost town — and never quite became a tourist trap either.
Before You Go
Chloride is a domestic US destination, so no visa or passport considerations apply for US citizens. International visitors should check TravelerPulse's Visas section and consult the official US immigration authority (USCIS / travel.state.gov) for current entry requirements.
Weather
Summers in Chloride are hot, with daytime temperatures that can exceed 100°F (38°C) in July and August. The elevation (roughly 5,280 ft / 1,609 m) provides some relief compared to lower-desert towns, but heat is still a serious consideration. Spring and autumn are pleasant. Winters are mild by day but can drop near or below freezing overnight.
What to Bring
- Sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and ample water — even in cooler months
- Sturdy walking shoes if you plan to hike toward the Purcell murals, as the terrain is rocky
- Cash; many small vendors and shops may not accept cards — verify locally
- A full tank of gas before arriving; fuel options in town are extremely limited
Services in Chloride are minimal. Stock up on supplies in Kingman before making the drive north.
Getting There
By Car
Chloride is most easily reached by personal vehicle. From Kingman, take US-93 north approximately 14 miles, then turn east on Chloride Road for about 4 miles into town. The roads are paved and suitable for standard passenger vehicles. The drive takes under 25 minutes from Kingman.
From Las Vegas, the town is roughly 90 miles southeast via US-93. From Phoenix, expect approximately a 3-hour drive northwest via I-40 and US-93.
Nearest Airports
The closest commercial airports are Laughlin/Bullhead International Airport (IFP) in Bullhead City, AZ, and McCarran International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas, NV. Las Vegas is the more practical hub for most travelers given its greater number of connections. Verify current flight options and schedules on airline or aggregator sites.
Public Transportation
There is no scheduled public transit service to Chloride. A rental car from Kingman, Laughlin, or Las Vegas is the practical choice for most visitors.
Getting Around
Chloride's town center is small enough to walk end-to-end in well under 30 minutes. The main commercial area, post office, and historic buildings are concentrated along Second Street and Tennessee Avenue. No local bus or taxi service operates in town.
The Roy Purcell murals are located about a mile outside the town center on a dirt road. The walk is manageable but exposed; driving a standard vehicle to the trailhead area is more practical in summer. Confirm road conditions locally, particularly after monsoon rains (typically July–September) which can leave dirt roads rutted or muddy.
Things to See & Do
Roy Purcell Murals
The most distinctive attraction in the area is the series of large psychedelic murals painted directly onto rock outcroppings by Roy Purcell in 1975. The murals blend spiritual and natural imagery and have been restored over the years. They are located on a rocky hillside outside town; access involves a short walk on uneven ground. There is no admission charge, but verify current access conditions locally.
Historic District Walking
The downtown block contains original and restored buildings including an old jail, the post office (reportedly one of the oldest continuously operating post offices in Arizona), and various false-front storefronts. Several antique and curiosity shops occupy these spaces, with stock ranging from mining-era relics to handmade crafts.
Shootout Reenactments
Chloride has historically hosted periodic old-west-style gunfight reenactments, typically on weekend mornings during warmer months. Schedules and frequency vary by season and volunteer availability — verify with the Chloride Chamber of Commerce or local postings before planning around this.
Day-Hiking and Desert Scenery
The surrounding Cactus Plain and access roads toward the Hualapai Mountains offer informal opportunities to observe Mojave Desert flora (Joshua trees, creosote, cholla cactus) and birdlife. There are no developed trailheads immediately adjacent to town; hikers should carry adequate water and tell someone their plans.
Food & Drink
Dining options in Chloride are extremely limited. The town has historically supported one or two small restaurants or diners, but these can change ownership or operating hours without notice. Verify what is currently open before arriving hungry.
Visitors are strongly advised to bring snacks and water from Kingman or another larger town. If you do find a local spot open, expect straightforward American diner-style food rather than a broad menu. Alcohol availability is similarly limited — verify locally.
The nearest reliable range of restaurants and grocery stores is in Kingman, approximately 20 miles south.
Shopping
Chloride's few shops are its main commercial draw. Antique dealers, vintage collectible stores, and small galleries selling locally made art and jewelry occupy several of the historic storefronts. Stock varies widely and inventory turns over slowly, so the selection is genuinely eclectic.
Shop hours in small Arizona towns like this are often informal and subject to change. Some proprietors post their own hours; others open when they feel like it, particularly on weekdays. Weekend visits tend to find more businesses open. Carry cash as a precaution, and don't rely on finding a particular item in stock.
Practical Information
Connectivity
Cell coverage in Chloride can be spotty depending on your carrier. Download offline maps before leaving Kingman. There is no guarantee of reliable Wi-Fi access in town.
Medical
There are no medical facilities in Chloride. The nearest hospital services are in Kingman. For emergencies, dial 911. The Mohave County Sheriff's Office covers this area; verify non-emergency contact numbers locally.
Restrooms
Public restroom availability is not guaranteed outside of open businesses. Plan accordingly.
Pet Policy
Chloride is generally dog-friendly in outdoor areas. Keep pets leashed, especially near desert terrain where rattlesnakes and extreme heat are real hazards in warmer months.
Safety
Chloride is a quiet, low-crime town. The main safety considerations are environmental rather than social.
Heat: Summer temperatures can be dangerous. If visiting between May and September, stay hydrated, limit outdoor exposure during midday, and never leave children or pets in a parked car.
Wildlife: The surrounding desert is home to rattlesnakes, scorpions, and Gila monsters. Watch where you step and place your hands, especially around rocks and in areas with low vegetation. None of these animals is aggressive without provocation.
Road conditions: Dirt roads leading to the murals or into surrounding terrain can become impassable after heavy rains. Check conditions locally before venturing off paved roads.
Limited services: Because emergency services and medical care require travel to Kingman, self-reliance is important. Carry a charged phone, extra water, and a basic first-aid kit.
