Snowflake, Arizona
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Snowflake, Arizona, is a small town located in Navajo County in the northeastern part of the state. Established in 1878 by Mormon pioneers, the town was named after its founders, Erastus Snow and William Jordan Flake. Snowflake has a population of around 5,600 residents and is situated at an elevation of 5,623 feet. The town is known for its historic charm, friendly community, and outdoor recreational opportunities.
The history of Snowflake dates back to the late 19th century when Mormon pioneers Erastus Snow and William Jordan Flake founded the town. Snowflake was initially established as a farming and ranching community, and it has since grown and diversified. Many of the town’s original buildings are still standing today, giving Snowflake a unique historic charm.
In 1973, Snowflake was officially incorporated, and it has continued to grow and develop ever since. The town’s heritage is celebrated through various community events and activities, as well as through the preservation of numerous historic buildings.
Apache Junction was officially incorporated as a city in 1978. Over the years, the city has grown and developed, with new businesses and residential communities springing up. Today, Apache Junction is a thriving city that offers a high quality of life for its residents while preserving its rich history and natural beauty.
Snowflake is approximately 177 miles northeast of Phoenix, Arizona. The drive takes about 3 hours via AZ-87 N and AZ-260 E, passing through the scenic high desert landscape and the Mogollon Rim.
The economy of Snowflake is primarily based on agriculture, ranching, and local businesses. The town also benefits from tourism, as visitors come to explore its historic buildings and enjoy the outdoor recreational opportunities available in the surrounding area.
Snowflake is served by the Snowflake Unified School District, which operates three elementary schools, one junior high school, and one high school. The district is known for its strong academic programs and extracurricular activities. Additionally, Northland Pioneer College, a community college, has a campus in Snowflake, offering a range of academic programs, vocational training, and continuing education courses.
– Snowflake Unified School District:
– Northland Pioneer College
Snowflake is served by Summit Healthcare Regional Medical Center, a full-service hospital located in nearby Show Low. The medical center offers a wide range of services, including emergency care, general surgery, orthopedics, and outpatient services. Additionally, several medical clinics and private practices are available to provide healthcare services to Snowflake residents.
The real estate market in Snowflake offers a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and land for sale. The town’s relatively affordable housing and peaceful, rural atmosphere make it an attractive option for families and retirees. The median home value in Snowflake is approximately $175,000, with a variety of options to suit different budgets and preferences.
Things to Do
Snowflake offers a range of outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and golfing. The nearby Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests provide ample opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. The Snowflake Municipal Golf Course is a popular local destination for golf enthusiasts.
– Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests
– Snowflake Municipal Golf Course
Attractions and Points of Interest
Snowflake is home to several attractions and points of interest that showcase the town’s history and natural beauty:
– Stinson Pioneer Museum: This museum, operated by the Snowflake Historical Society, features exhibits and artifacts related to the town’s history and the pioneers who settled the area.
– Snowflake Historic Homes: A self-guided walking tour of Snowflake’s historic homes provides visitors with a glimpse into the town’s past. Many of these homes have been meticulously restored and preserved, showcasing Victorian, Gothic, and Western architectural styles.
– Snowflake Temple: The Snowflake Arizona Temple, operated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, is a beautiful landmark that serves as a place of worshipand reflection for the local community.
Places to Stay
Accommodations in Snowflake include a mix of hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals. Some popular options include the Heritage Inn Bed & Breakfast, Snowflake Inn, and Rodeway Inn Silver Creek Inn.
Government Structure
Snowflake operates under a council-manager form of government. The town council consists of six council members and a mayor, who are elected at large by the citizens of Snowflake. The council appoints a town manager who oversees the day-to-day operations of the town and implements policies set by the council.
Clubs and Organizations
Numerous clubs and organizations are available for Snowflake residents to join, including service clubs, hobby groups, and sports leagues. Some examples are:
– Snowflake-Taylor Chamber of Commerce: [https://www.snowflaketaylorchamber.org ↗](https://www.snowflaketaylorchamber.org)
– Snowflake Senior Citizens Center: [https://www.snowflaketaylorchamber.org/snowflake-senior-citizens-center ↗](https://www.snowflaketaylorchamber.org/snowflake-senior-citizens-center)
Climate
Snowflake experiences a semi-arid climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with average high temperatures in the mid-80s, while winters are cold with average low temperatures in the 20s. The town receives approximately 12 inches of precipitation annually, with most of it falling as snow during the winter months.
Community Involvement
Snowflake residents take pride in their community and actively participate in various events, volunteer opportunities, and local initiatives. The town hosts several annual events, such as the Snowflake Pioneer Days, Snowflake Harvest Festival, and the Snowflake Christmas Light Parade, which bring the community together to celebrate their history and culture.
– Snowflake Pioneer Days
– Snowflake Harvest Festival
Dining and Nightlife
Snowflake offers a variety of dining options, including local restaurants, cafes, and fast-food chains. Local restaurants serve a range of cuisine, from traditional American fare to Mexican and Chinese dishes. Nightlife in Snowflake is relatively low-key, with most entertainment options centered around family-friendly activities and community events.
Local Festivals and Events
Snowflake hosts several annual festivals and events that showcase the town’s unique history, culture, and community spirit. Some popular events include:
– Snowflake Pioneer Days: A multi-day event held every July to celebrate the town’s founding and pioneer heritage. Activities include a parade, rodeo, arts and crafts fair, live entertainment, and fireworks.
– Snowflake Harvest Festival: An annual event held every October that features a pumpkin patch, hayrides, games, food vendors, and live entertainment. The festival provides family-friendly fun while supporting local businesses and community organizations.
Notable Residents
Some notable residents of Snowflake include:
– William J. Flake: One of the town’s founders and a prominent early Mormon settler.
– Jake Flake: A former Arizona state legislator and great-grandson of William J. Flake.
Public Art and Cultural Attractions
Snowflake is home to several public art installations and cultural attractions that celebrate the town’s history and natural beauty. Some examples include:
– Snowflake Town Hall Mural: A large mural located on the exterior of the Snowflake Town Hall, which depicts the town’s history and founding.
– Snowflake Historic Homes: A collection of beautifully restored historic homes that showcase Victorian, Gothic, and Western architectural styles.
Transportation and Accessibility
Although Snowflake is a small town, it is relatively accessible by car, with major highways connecting it to nearby towns and cities. The town is also served by the White Mountain Connection, a public transit service that provides transportation between Snowflake, Taylor, and Show Low.
Sustainability and Environmental Initiatives
Snowflake is committed to protecting its natural resources and promoting sustainable practices. The town has implemented several initiatives aimed at reducing its environmental impact and promoting sustainable living, such as recycling
programs, water conservation efforts, and community clean-up events.
– Snowflake Recycling Program: The town offers recycling services for residents to properly dispose of recyclable materials, including paper, cardboard, plastic, and aluminum.
– Water Conservation: Snowflake encourages water conservation through public education campaigns and by providing resources and tips for residents to save water in their homes and gardens.
– Community Clean-Up Events: Snowflake frequently organizes community clean-up events where residents come together to clean up public spaces, parks, and neighborhoods.
Sports and Recreation
Snowflake offers a variety of sports and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors of all ages. The town has several parks and recreational facilities, including:
– Pioneer Park: A large community park that features a playground, picnic areas, sports fields, and walking trails.
– Snowflake Recreation Center: A multi-use facility that offers a variety of sports and recreational programs for children and adults, including basketball, volleyball, and fitness classes.
In addition to local parks and recreational facilities, Snowflake residents have access to the nearby Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests, where they can enjoy hiking, camping, fishing, and other outdoor activities.
Shopping and Retail
Snowflake offers a variety of shopping options for residents and visitors, including local boutiques, antique shops, and grocery stores. The town’s historic downtown area is home to several unique shops and businesses, providing a charming shopping experience. Additionally, larger retail stores and shopping centers are located in nearby cities such as Show Low and Holbrook.
Government Services
The town of Snowflake provides a variety of services to its residents, including public safety, public works, parks and recreation, and planning and zoning. The town’s government departments work together to ensure the safety, well-being, and quality of life for all Snowflake residents.
– Snowflake Police Department
– Snowflake Fire Department
– Snowflake Public Works Department
– Snowflake Parks and Recreation Department
– Snowflake Planning and Zoning Department
Clubs and Organizations
Snowflake is home to a variety of clubs and organizations that cater to different interests, hobbies, and causes. Some examples include:
– Snowflake Rotary Club: A local chapter of Rotary International that is dedicated to community service and improving the lives of Snowflake residents.
– Snowflake Community Garden: A community-run garden that provides a space for residents to grow their own fruits, vegetables, and flowers.
Accessibility
Snowflake strives to provide an inclusive and accessible environment for all residents and visitors. The town’s government buildings, parks, and public spaces are designed with accessibility in mind, and efforts are made to ensure that public services and programs are available to individuals with disabilities.
