Bellemont, Arizona – A Biker Friendly Ghost Town
Nestled in the high country of northern Arizona, just west of Flagstaff, lies Bellemont, Arizona, a place where the echoes of the past mingle with the rumble of modern-day motorcycles. Once a bustling railroad stop and lumber town, Bellemont, Arizona, has weathered the storms of economic change, evolving from a near-ghost town into a haven for motorcycle enthusiasts. While its population remains small, Bellemont, Arizona exudes a unique character, blending historical remnants with a contemporary biker culture. Its strategic location along the historic Route 66 and its proximity to the Grand Canyon make it a compelling destination for travelers seeking a glimpse into Arizona’s past and a taste of its vibrant present.
The transformation of Bellemont, Arizona, from a near-forgotten settlement to a "Biker Friendly Town" is an intriguing one. Ironically, the town holds a cinematic connection to the counter-culture biker image. A scene from the iconic film "Easy Rider," starring Peter Fonda and Dennis Hopper, was filmed here. The scene depicts the characters being turned away from the Pine Breeze Motel, their long hair and motorcycles deemed undesirable. The "NO VACANCY" sign flashed a silent judgment, forcing them to seek shelter elsewhere along Route 66.
Today, the narrative has shifted dramatically. Bellemont, Arizona, embraces the biker community. The Grand Canyon Harley-Davidson dealership stands as a testament to this change, a modern hub catering to the needs of riders from across the country. The Route 66 Roadhouse Bar & Grill provides a welcoming atmosphere for bikers and other travelers alike, offering food, drinks, and camaraderie. Even a Camping World dealership has found a home in Bellemont, catering to those who prefer to explore the surrounding landscapes on two wheels or four. The spirit of the open road and the freedom associated with motorcycle travel have found a receptive audience in this resilient Arizona town.
The Pine Breeze Motel, a silent witness to Bellemont, Arizona’s, past, still stands along the old alignment of Route 66, south of the main part of town. Its peeling white paint and overgrown surroundings speak of a bygone era. The motel now stands idle, a relic of the Mother Road’s heyday. However, the original "NO VACANCY" sign from the Pine Breeze Motel hasn’t been lost to time. It now hangs proudly above the pool tables at the Route 66 Roadhouse Bar & Grill, a symbolic reminder of the town’s evolution and its embrace of a culture it once shunned.
The history of Bellemont, Arizona, stretches back to 1882, when it emerged as a vital stop along the Atlantic & Pacific Railroad. Natural springs in the area provided a crucial resource: water for the thirsty steam engines that traversed the vast landscape. The town was named in honor of Belle Smith, the daughter of the railroad superintendent, forever linking her name to this corner of the Arizona Territory.
The arrival of the railroad spurred further development. Bellemont quickly transformed into a lumbering center, capitalizing on the abundant forests that surrounded the town. A sawmill was established, providing jobs and contributing to the local economy. In 1887, a post office was established, solidifying Bellemont’s place as a recognized community within the growing state of Arizona.
As automobiles gained popularity, Route 66 became a vital artery connecting the eastern and western United States. The original alignment of Route 66 passed north of the present-day Interstate 40. Later, in 1931, the route was realigned to a more southerly course, bringing increased traffic and commerce to Bellemont, Arizona.
The outbreak of World War II brought significant changes to Bellemont, Arizona. Shortly after the attack on Pearl Harbor, the U.S. government constructed the Navajo Army Depot in Bellemont. This sprawling facility served as a storage and distribution center for ammunition and explosives, playing a crucial role in the war effort. While the town itself remained small, consisting of little more than a general store and a couple of gas stations, the presence of the depot brought an influx of personnel and activity to the area.
The Whiting Brothers, known for their chain of gas stations and motels along Route 66, also established a presence in east Bellemont. Their establishment provided essential services to travelers making their way across the country. Today, little remains of the Whiting Brothers station and motel, a testament to the ephemeral nature of roadside businesses along the ever-changing Mother Road. Only a pile of rubble marks the spot where they once stood.
In 1982, the Arizona National Guard took over Camp Navajo, the former Navajo Army Depot. The facility continues to serve as a training ground for the National Guard, maintaining a military presence in Bellemont, Arizona.
For those interested in exploring the remnants of old Route 66, two alignments exist beyond Bellemont, Arizona. One of these alignments has largely disappeared, reclaimed by the desert landscape. However, the other alignment remains accessible, though caution is advised. The road is narrow, winding, and unpaved in many sections, making it suitable only for vehicles with adequate clearance and drivers comfortable with navigating challenging terrain.
To access this historic stretch of Route 66, travelers can enter the north frontage road of Interstate 40. This road winds its way through Brannigan Park, a scenic area that marks the highest point on Route 66, reaching an elevation of nearly 7,500 feet above sea level. In the early days of automobile travel, this pass presented significant challenges to motorists, particularly those driving underpowered vehicles.
When Route 66 was moved south in 1941, the businesses along this higher elevation route closed, leaving behind a collection of abandoned buildings and forgotten settlements. Today, however, the area offers a beautiful drive, with grassy meadows, historic homes, and towering stands of pine and aspen trees. It’s a chance to experience the solitude and natural beauty that once characterized travel along Route 66.
For those seeking a convenient route to the nearby town of Parks, Interstate 40 West provides the most direct option. Traveling west for 6.6 miles, take Exit #178 to Spring Valley Road, and then turn west for approximately one mile.
Bellemont, Arizona, stands as a reminder of the constant flux of history and the enduring spirit of communities that adapt and reinvent themselves. From its origins as a railroad stop to its current status as a biker-friendly town, Bellemont has navigated numerous transformations. Whether you’re a motorcycle enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a traveler seeking a unique experience, Bellemont, Arizona, offers a compelling glimpse into the heart of the American West. Its blend of historical remnants, natural beauty, and contemporary culture makes it a destination worth exploring.