Ash Fork, Arizona invites visitors and locals alike to celebrate history, community, and the Mother Road during Ash Fork Heritage on Route 66 Days, taking place Saturday, May 16, 2026. This full-day event honors the town’s pioneer roots while celebrating the 100th anniversary of Route 66 with an old-fashioned parade, classic car show, food, games, and hands-on demonstrations that capture the spirit of small-town America.

A young man’s first car represents freedom, possibility, and the open road. In this installment of Stories From the Past with Marshall Trimble, Arizona historian and Ash Fork native Marshall Trimble shares a firsthand memory of his 1946 Ford Convertible — a story that captures the spirit of Route 66, small-town life, and growing up in Ash Fork. Through personal reflection and vivid detail, this piece preserves a moment in Arizona’s past that many remember, and none forget.

We’re excited to welcome a remarkable new addition to the Ash Fork Route 66 Museum’s railroad collection — an authentic A.T.S.F. speeder with deep roots in the Southwest. Generously donated by Joe and originally from Raton, New Mexico, this historic piece offers a fascinating glimpse into the everyday tools that kept the rails running and communities like Ash Fork connected. From its role in track inspection to its place in Santa Fe Railway history, this speeder helps tell the story of the people, innovation, and railroad legacy that shaped our town.

We’re proud to see Ash Fork, Arizona recognized as a must-see stop on the Grand Canyon National Park Trips website. Known as the Flagstone Capital of the World, Ash Fork offers travelers a unique blend of railroad heritage, Route 66 history, and small-town charm. From exploring exhibits at the Ash Fork Route 66 Museum to discovering the stories that shaped this Northern Arizona community, this feature highlights why Ash Fork deserves a place on every Arizona road trip itinerary.

The Ash Fork Route 66 Museum is proud to display an original ROK railroad siding sign, a rare artifact that brings to life a nearly forgotten stop along the Santa Fe main line. Donated by George Garcia Jr., this piece connects visitors directly to Rock Butte, an official railroad siding listed in the 1897 Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe timetable. Once an operational waypoint west of Ash Fork, Rock Butte played a quiet but important role in Arizona’s railroad story. Today, the preserved ROK sign helps tell the story of how geography, railroads, and small communities shaped northern Arizona’s history.

Built in 1893 from striking red Coconino sandstone, Ash Fork’s original Santa Fe Railway depot stood as a powerful symbol of progress and connection in northern Arizona. More than just a stop along the rail line, the depot became the heart of a growing community — welcoming travelers, moving freight, and helping shape the town’s future. Though a fire in 1905 destroyed the original structure, its sandstone lived on, reused to build what is now the Ash Fork Route 66 Museum. Today, visitors quite literally walk through history, surrounded by the same stone that once greeted steam engines and pioneers arriving in Ash Fork.

Discover cozy motels, unique campgrounds, and boondocking spots in Ash Fork, Arizona. Plan your perfect Route 66 stay with our local lodging guide.

Tour museums, murals, historic plaques, and railroad landmarks in Ash Fork, Arizona. A must-stop destination for history lovers and Route 66 travelers alike.

Looking for fun and adventure? Discover hikes, historic trails, off-roading, and outdoor attractions around Ash Fork, Arizona. Start your Route 66 journey here!

From hometown diners to authentic Indian cuisine, explore the top places to eat in Ash Fork, AZ. Fuel your Route 66 adventure with our local restaurant guide.