Colorado City, AZ

Colorado City, Arizona, is a small town located in Mohave County in the northeastern part of the state. Its history is closely tied to the development of the polygamous religious sect known as the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS).

Colorado City was originally settled in 1913 by members of the FLDS sect, who established the town with the intent to create a self-sufficient community that adhered strictly to their religious beliefs. The FLDS is an offshoot of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS), which had abandoned the practice of polygamy in the late 19th century.

The town was initially called Short Creek, named after a nearby creek, but in 1935, the name was changed to Colorado City to avoid confusion with another town in Arizona called Short Creek. Over the years, the community grew, and its population was primarily composed of FLDS members.

The FLDS believers who settled in Colorado City sought isolation from the outside world and established a theocracy governed by their religious leaders. The FLDS leader, Prophet Rulon Jeffs, exerted significant control over the town and its inhabitants, governing all aspects of their lives, including education, work, and family life.

Colorado City faced years of controversy and legal battles due to allegations of child abuse, forced marriages, and other illegal activities within the FLDS community. In 2002, Warren Jeffs, the son of Rulon Jeffs and the leader of the FLDS at the time, was included on the FBI's Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list for his involvement in arranging illegal marriages of underage girls. In 2006, Warren Jeffs was captured and subsequently sentenced to life in prison.

Following the arrest of Warren Jeffs, the state of Arizona took over the control of the town and its operations to ensure the protection of its residents. Various efforts have been made to integrate Colorado City into mainstream society and eliminate the control of the FLDS sect.

Today, Colorado City has a more diverse population, with both FLDS members and non-FLDS residents. The town still bears some marks of its religious roots, with the presence of FLDS-owned businesses and properties. However, efforts are ongoing to foster a sense of inclusivity and provide support to those transitioning out of the FLDS community.

Colorado City's history is a complex one, with a unique religious and cultural background that has shaped the town's development and perceptions. The journey from its initial settlement by FLDS members, through the controversies and legal battles, to the present challenges and efforts towards community integration, is an ongoing story that continues to unfold in this small Arizona town.

Colorado City, AZ is a small town located on the border of Arizona and Utah. Although it may not have as many tourist attractions as larger cities, there are a few noteworthy places to visit in and around the area:

Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park

Located about 35 miles away from Colorado City, this park is famous for its unique pink sand dunes. Visitors can enjoy activities like sandboarding, hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.

Pipe Spring National Monument

Situated around 15 miles from Colorado City, this historic site showcases a fascinating glimpse into the pioneer history of the region. Visitors can explore a 19th-century Mormon fort, enjoy nature trails, and learn about the cultural heritage of the area.

The Pointe

This newly developed community center in Colorado City offers a variety of recreational facilities, including a swimming pool, tennis courts, fitness center, and a picnic area. It's a great spot for locals and visitors to relax and enjoy outdoor activities.

Snow Canyon State Park

Located just across the state line in Utah, this stunning desert park offers beautiful red rock formations, lava flows, and sandstone cliffs. Activities include hiking, biking, rock climbing, and photography.

Zion National Park

While technically not in Colorado City, Zion National Park is only a short drive away. This breathtaking national park offers awe-inspiring views, iconic hikes such as Angel's Landing and The Narrows, scenic drives, and camping.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Another nearby national park well worth visiting, Bryce Canyon is known for its distinctive hoodoos (tall, thin spires of rock). Visitors can explore the park's trails, enjoy scenic drives, stargaze, and attend ranger-led programs.

These are just a few attractions in and around Colorado City. It's a region with stunning natural beauty, rich history, and opportunities for outdoor adventure.

Colorado City, Arizona experiences a semi-arid climate with hot summers and mild winters. The town is located in the Mohave County, in the northwest corner of the state, near the border with Utah.

Summers in Colorado City are characterized by hot and dry weather. Average high temperatures range from the mid-90s to low 100s Fahrenheit (35 to 40 degrees Celsius) during June, July, and August. Heatwaves are not uncommon during this time, with temperatures reaching well above 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius). The arid conditions result in low humidity levels, creating a dry heat.

Winter in Colorado City is relatively mild, with average high temperatures during December, January, and February ranging from the 40s to the mid-50s Fahrenheit (5 to 12 degrees Celsius). Freezing temperatures can occur during the coldest months, but snowfall is typically limited with an average of less than 1 inch per month. However, nearby mountains can receive more significant snowfall.

Spring and fall seasons in Colorado City are generally pleasant, with comfortable temperatures ranging from the 50s to the 80s Fahrenheit (10 to 27 degrees Celsius). These transitional seasons provide relief from the extreme heat of summer, and the temperatures are considered ideal for outdoor activities.

Overall, Colorado City experiences a desert-like climate, with hot and dry summers and mild winters. The town receives lower levels of precipitation throughout the year, with most rainfall occurring during the summer monsoon season.

Colorado City, AZ is a small town located on the Arizona-Utah border. Originally established by early Mormon settlers, the town's population is primarily made up of members of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS), a breakaway group from the mainstream Mormon Church. The town is known for its unique social structure and religious practices.

Central Colorado City

This is the main neighborhood in Colorado City, consisting of the town's business district, public facilities, and most of the FLDS community. The neighborhood features various churches, schools, and community centers that cater to the FLDS population. Central Colorado City is characterized by religious symbolism, including distinctive architecture and gardens.

Hildale, Utah

Although not part of Colorado City, Hildale is a neighboring town and closely related to Colorado City. Both towns are often referred to collectively as "Short Creek." Hildale also has a predominantly FLDS population and shares many similarities with Central Colorado City, including religious institutions and community facilities.

The Creek

As a more generic term encompassing both Colorado City and Hildale, "The Creek" refers to the shared community and lifestyle of both towns. The Creek is known for its insular nature, with relatively limited interaction with the outside world. The community practices patriarchal polygamy, and its members emphasize traditional gender roles and strict adherence to religious principles.

East Colorado City

Located on the eastern side of the town, this neighborhood is home to some non-FLDS residents who do not subscribe to the FLDS faith. Unlike Central Colorado City, East Colorado City features a mix of religious and non-religious inhabitants, comprising various Christian denominations and individuals who have chosen not to adhere to any organized religion.

Centennial Park

Though a separate town, Centennial Park is in close proximity to Colorado City and Hildale. It houses a community that has also branched off from the mainstream Mormon Church but is not affiliated with the FLDS. Centennial Park is known for its less rigid religious practices and a greater emphasis on individual choice and personal freedoms.

It is important to note that Colorado City and its neighborhoods are subject to ongoing controversies and legal issues, primarily related to allegations of child abuse, forced marriages, and other illegal activities. These matters have attracted significant media attention and scrutiny in recent years.