Key Destinations in the Tri-State Region

  • Needles, California: As one of the oldest towns on the Colorado River, Needles offers historic sites and serves as a gateway for river-based recreation as it’s nestled along the western banks of the Colorado River near the borders of Arizona and Nevada. Established in 1883 as a pivotal stop for the Atlantic and Pacific Railroad, the city was named after the distinctive needle-like peaks found just across the border in Arizona
  • Amboy, California: Once a bustling stop along Route 66, Amboy has been revitalized into a classic desert destination, attracting travelers seeking a glimpse into the past. Established in 1883 as a mining town, Amboy later became a bustling stop for travelers on Route 66, especially with the opening of Roy’s Motel and Café in 1938 that remains today.
  • Kelso, California: Located within the Mojave National Preserve, Kelso is home to the historic Kelso Depot, a restored train station that now serves as a visitor center, offering insights into the area’s railroad and mining history.
  • Goffs, California: a small community with a rich history. Here, the Goffs Schoolhouse, built in 1914, has been restored and now serves as a museum showcasing the area’s mining and railroad heritage.
  • Kingman, Arizona: Known as the “Heart of Historic Route 66,” Kingman boasts a charming downtown area with museums, vintage shops, and eateries that celebrate its rich history.
  • Lake Havasu City, Arizona: Famous for the relocated London Bridge, Lake Havasu City offers a blend of water-based recreation and vibrant nightlife, making it a popular destination for tourists.
  • Lake Mohave Arizona: Home base for Tri-State and Arizona Podcasts; Fort Mohave stretches along the Arizona-Nevada border, Lake Mohave to the north is a reservoir on the Colorado River, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and camping amidst stunning desert landscapes.
  • Golden Valley, Arizona: Nestled between Kingman and Bullhead City on Highway 68, this area maintains a vibrant community spirit, with residents actively participating in local events and activities.
  • Bullhead City, Arizona: Situated directly across the river from Laughlin, Nevada, Bullhead City provides access to water sports on the Colorado River and serves as a gateway to nearby attractions.
  • Oatman, Arizona: A former mining town that has transformed into a vibrant tourist destination, preserving the spirit of the Old West. Its population of wild burros, descendants of the pack animals used by prospectors roam the streets freely interacting with visitors.
  • Chloride, Arizona: Known as the oldest continuously inhabited mining town in Arizona, Chloride features historic buildings, murals, and the annual “Old Miner’s Day” celebration.
  • Fort Mohave, Arizona: Located south of Bullhead City, Fort Mohave is a growing community that blends residential areas with historical significance, including the nearby Fort Mohave, a military outpost established in the 19th century.
  • Laughlin, Nevada: Nestled along the Colorado River south of Davis Dam and Katherine Landing , Laughlin is renowned for its vibrant casino scene, offering a variety of gaming and entertainment options; gaming, live entertainment and dining experiences.
  • Cal-Nev-Ari, Nevada: Cal-Nev-Ari is a unique unincorporated aviation-centered living small-town charm community in Clark County, Nevada, located near the state’s southern tip. The town’s name is a combination of the abbreviations for California, Nevada and Arizona, reflecting its proximity to these states.

Route 66 (Amboy, CA to Kingman, AZ) Destinations:

Destinations along historic Route 66 traverses this region, offering travelers a nostalgic journey through classic Americana. Towns like Kingman, Topock, Golden Shores and Oatman in Arizona, as well as Needles, Goffs, Essex, and Amboy in California, provide unique glimpses into the past, with restored landmarks, museums, and annual events celebrating the legacy of this iconic highway. Traveling the historic Route 66 offers a captivating journey through the heart of the American Southwest. The stretch from Amboy to Kingman (140 miles) is rich with iconic landmarks, scenic vistas, and a palpable sense of Americana.

  • Desert Landscapes:
    • This stretch of Route 66 traverses the Mojave Desert offering stark and beautiful scenery.
    • Tri State Podcast covers the drive from Amboy, CA home of Roy’s Motel and Cafe (One of the most photographed landmarks on the Mother Road) to Kingman, AZ (“The Heart of Historic Route 66). Most of this part of the Mother Road is best described as “barren,” showcasing the vastness of the southwest desert (with a few detours to be navigated).
  • Historical Landmarks:
    • Route 66 is dotted with remnants of the Mother Road’s past, including iconic motels cafes, and ghost towns.
    • Tri State Podcast covers the history of Route 66 in our region. Topics include the people and landmarks and the vital economic impact from tourism it provides to each community the Mother Road shares.
  • Small Town Charm:
    • Several unique towns offer a glimpse into the history and culture of the region.
    • Tri State Podcast shares plenty of small town stories i.e. Oatman, AZ; a mining town with an awesome “western feel” with wild donkeys roaming the streets and gunfights in the streets daily!
  • Mountainous Terrain:
    • Black Mountains, Bristol Mountains, Granite Mountains, Hualapai Mountains and yes, even a cinder cone volcano!
    • Tr-State Podcast shares must see’s in the local mountains like “Sidewinder Pass” From Oatman, AZ to Cool Springs, AZ. This road winds through the Black Mountains offering 8 miles of stunning views AND 191 white-knuckle curves.
  • Route 66 History:
    • Each camp, town and City on Route 66 in our region has deep Route 66 history. Want to learn more? Simply stop and ask.
    • Tr-State Podcast will spotlight examples like the Needles, CA Museum, home of Snoopy’s Big Brother “Spike” and Kingman, AZ – home to the Arizona Route 66 Museum and the Powerhouse Visitor Center which houses Route 66 exhibits.

The Colorado River – Natural Landmarks and Recreation Destinations

The Colorado River destinations and its associated lakes offer abundant recreational opportunities, including boating, fishing, and hiking. The surrounding desert landscapes and preserves, like the Mojave National Preserve near Kelso, provide scenic beauty and outdoor adventures for nature enthusiasts.

  • Water-Based Recreation:
    • The Colorado River is the lifeblood of this region, offering abundant opportunities for boating, fishing, kayaking, jet-skiing, and other water sports.
    • Tri State Podcast will share episodes that detail the experience of renting equipment on Lake Mohave, or fishing for striped bass near Laughlin, Nevada.
  • Diverse Landscapes:
    • The region boasts a striking contrast of desert landscapes, rugged mountains, and the lush river corridor.
    • Tri State Podcast will share segments that feature hiking trails in the Black Mountains or exploring the unique geological formations that gave the name Needles.
  • Historical Significance:
    • The area is rich in history, including Native American heritage, mining boomtowns, and the iconic Route 66.
    • Tri State Podcast will include episodes that delve into the history of our region and explore the preserved ghost towns along Route 66.
  • Regional Communities:
    • The unique character of the communities that line the Colorado River such as Laughlin, Bullhead City, Fort Mohave, Lake Havasu, Topock, Golden Shores and Needles.
    • Tri State Podcast will talk with local business owners and share local festivals and events.
  • Outdoor Adventure:
    • This region is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for off-roading, camping, and exploring vast desert areas.
    • Tri State Podcast will showcase popular off-roading trails and introduce experts sharing the best camping spots along the river.

Links to Destinations