Yarnell is a quiet little town that’s an adventure just to get to, if you like twisty, steep mountain roads. To get there you take highway 89 between Prescott and Congress. It is a very popular road for motorcycles and sports cars. If you want to mosey along be aware that it may be polite to pull over and get out of the way.
It was pretty much unknown until tragedy struck in 2013 when 19 of the Granite Mountain Hotshots lost their lives battling a massive wildfire.
The Granite Mountain Hotshots Memorial
Granite Mountain Hotshots Memorial State Park was created to memorialize the nineteen members of the Granite Mountain Hotshots who died there on June 30, 2013, while fighting the Yarnell Hill Fire. It’s a rugged hike so be prepared with good shoes and plenty of water, but is worth a visit. The hike is approximately 3.5 miles long from the trailhead to the Fatality Site, for a full length of about 7 miles. It is a somewhat difficult hike, with several up and down grades.
The Cornerstone Bakery 22773 State Route 89
This is the place to go for delicious homemade baked treats and good ol fashion food! If you’re in the mood for donuts or plate sized cinnamon rolls be sure to get there early!
Peeples Valley
Peeples valley includes the towns of Kirkland and Wilhoit. It is lush and green in the spring and early summer and is home to many horse and cattle ranches.
Peeples Valley is named for prospector A. H. Peeples, who was the leader of the group that discovered Rich Hill, a gold deposit at Weaver, Arizona, in 1863.
Kirkland, Arizona
Kirkland is an unincorporated community in central Yavapai County, Arizona, United States, near the Weaver Mountains. It is southwest of the city of Prescott, the county seat of Yavapai County. Its elevation is 3,930 feet. Although Kirkland is unincorporated, it has a post office, with the ZIP code of 86332.
Wilhoit, Arizona
Wilhoit offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and desert landscape. Residents can enjoy a wide variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing in nearby lakes and rivers. The small town atmosphere gives residents a sense of community.
All told there are less than 3000 people living in the entire area and their economy derives from ranching, farming and tourist. If you take the road less traveled to visit be sure to stop and enjoy the views and the friendly local people! If you’re ready to retire to the quiet life be sure you look into living here.
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