Williams, Arizona – Gateway to the Grand Canyon
Nestled in Coconino County, Arizona, west of Flagstaff, lies the charming town of Williams, Arizona – Gateway to the Grand Canyon. This historic locale, a vital stop along the legendary Route 66, boasts a rich tapestry of history, natural beauty, and Wild West lore. For generations, it has served as a crucial jumping-off point for adventurers eager to witness the awe-inspiring grandeur of the Grand Canyon.
Before the arrival of European settlers, the land surrounding present-day Williams was home to various Native American tribes for countless generations. Their deep connection to the land is evident in the numerous archaeological sites and cultural landmarks scattered throughout the region. In the mid-16th century, Spanish explorers, driven by the mythical allure of the Seven Cities of Cibola, became the first Europeans to lay eyes on the Grand Canyon. The sheer magnitude of this geological wonder must have been a truly staggering sight for those early travelers traversing the arid landscapes.
The early 19th century witnessed the westward expansion of mountain men, driven by the lucrative fur trade. Among these intrepid figures was William Sherley Williams, a trapper and scout affectionately known as "Old Bill." He roamed extensively throughout the western territories, including the area that would later bear his name. Following in the footsteps of the fur trappers came prospectors, lured by the promise of gold and other valuable minerals. The area’s population grew significantly after the Civil War, fueled by land speculators anticipating the construction of the transcontinental railroad. These speculators staked claims to vast tracts of land in northern Arizona, including the area that would become Williams, Arizona – Gateway to the Grand Canyon.
The settlement of Williams was officially founded in 1876, named in honor of the famed mountain man Bill Williams. The burgeoning community quickly attracted sheep and cattle ranchers, drawn by the promise of fertile grazing lands. In 1881, a post office was established, marking a significant step in the town’s development. The arrival of the railroad on September 1, 1882, proved to be a pivotal moment, transforming Williams into a bustling shipping center for the burgeoning ranching and lumber industries.
Like many towns of the Old West, Williams initially earned a reputation as a rough-and-tumble settlement, characterized by its proliferation of saloons, brothels, gambling houses, and opium dens. These establishments, largely confined to "Saloon Row" on Railroad Avenue by town ordinance, were frequented by cowboys, railroad workers, and lumberjacks seeking entertainment and respite. This vibrant, if somewhat chaotic, atmosphere contributed to the town’s unique character and appeal.
Even in those early days, the seeds of tourism were being sown as adventurous travelers made their way to the Grand Canyon via buckboards and stagecoaches. The journey was arduous, but the reward – a glimpse of one of the world’s most magnificent natural wonders – made it all worthwhile.
The year 1901 marked a turning point for Williams, Arizona – Gateway to the Grand Canyon, with the Santa Fe Railroad extending its line from the town to the Grand Canyon’s South Rim. This development solidified Williams’ role as the primary access point to the canyon, giving it the moniker it still holds today. That same year, a devastating fire swept through the town, consuming 36 businesses, including two hotels and ten homes, in a mere hour. However, the resilient residents of Williams quickly rallied, rebuilding their community and establishing a new fire district to prevent future catastrophes.
The early 20th century also saw the establishment of a Harvey House hotel in Williams. Named the Fray Marcos Hotel, this architectural landmark still stands as a depot, serving the countless passengers en route to the Grand Canyon. These hotels were known for their high standards of service and played a significant role in promoting tourism in the region.
In 1926, Route 66, the "Mother Road," was completed through Williams, ushering in a new era of prosperity. The increased automobile traffic spurred the growth of businesses catering to travelers, including motels, diners, and gas stations. Ironically, this reliance on automobile travel would eventually lead to the decline of rail service in Williams, which ceased operations in 1968.
The town experienced another significant shift on October 13, 1984, when Interstate 40 bypassed Williams, making it the last Route 66 town to be bypassed by the interstate system. While this development initially posed a challenge, the town’s proximity to the Grand Canyon helped it weather the storm better than many other Route 66 communities. Recognizing the town’s historical significance, Williams’ entire downtown business district was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in the same year.
A few years later, on September 17, 1989, the Grand Canyon Railway was revived, once again transporting travelers from Williams to the Grand Canyon’s South Rim. Departing from the historic Fray Marcos Harvey House and Depot, the train now carries nearly 200,000 visitors annually on vintage steam and diesel-powered locomotives. The Grand Canyon Railway offers a nostalgic and entertaining journey to the canyon, complete with authentic Western characters who bring the Old West to life. A popular attraction is the morning shootout at the depot, featuring Marshal Goodmore and the Cataract Creek Gang.
Today, Route 66 is divided into east and westbound sections, so visitors should make sure to explore both sides to fully appreciate what Williams has to offer. Notable attractions along the route include Cruiser’s Cafe, housed in the former C. Bene Gas Station, the Turquoise Teepee, and Rod’s Steak House, a Route 66 icon since 1945.
Williams, Arizona – Gateway to the Grand Canyon boasts a vibrant downtown area listed on the National Register of Historic Places, with several buildings worth exploring. One particularly intriguing establishment is the Red Garter Bed & Bakery, located at 137 Railroad Avenue. This century-old inn, once a popular saloon and bordello, is rumored to be haunted.
Beyond the town limits, a wealth of outdoor activities awaits. Four picturesque lakes – Cataract, Kaibab, Dogtown, and White Horse Lakes – offer excellent fishing and camping opportunities.
Within an hour’s drive of Williams, Arizona – Gateway to the Grand Canyon are Walnut Canyon and Wupatki National Monuments, showcasing well-preserved 12th-century Indian ruins. Nearby, visitors can explore Sunset Crater, the remnants of a once-active volcano, and the San Francisco Peaks, the highest point in Arizona.
The surrounding Kaibab National Forest provides seasonal hunting opportunities for various game animals, including deer, turkey, antelope, elk, lion, and bear. During the winter months, the Williams Ski Area offers downhill skiing and sledding, with cross-country ski trails located nearby.
For a whimsical detour, consider visiting Flintstones Bedrock City, located approximately 30 miles north of Williams en route to the Grand Canyon. This quirky amusement park allows visitors to step back in time and interact with Fred, Wilma, Bam-Bam, and the rest of the beloved Flintstones characters.
To continue your journey along Route 66, rejoin I-40 just west of Williams at exit 161. The southern frontage road follows the original Route 66 alignment but soon comes to a dead end.
Further west, two old alignments diverge as the road descends from the mountain country to the plains below. Both alignments can be accessed at exit 157 and run south of I-40. The more southerly pre-1932 alignment quickly enters private property. The post-1932 alignment, while drivable, consists primarily of dirt or rough pavement. This route passes by two long-closed cafes, the Monte Carlo and the County Line, located about a mile down the road.
Additional early alignments can be found a few miles further down the road, accessible at exits 151 and 149. Some of these alignments are drivable, while others have been converted into bike trails.
To further explore the Mother Road, consider visiting the nearby towns of Ashfork and Seligman, both located a short distance down the stretch.
In conclusion, Williams, Arizona – Gateway to the Grand Canyon offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and small-town charm. Whether you’re embarking on a Grand Canyon adventure, exploring the wonders of Route 66, or simply seeking a relaxing getaway, Williams provides an unforgettable experience. Its rich history, stunning surroundings, and welcoming atmosphere make it a destination that truly captures the spirit of the American West.