Mayhew Lodge

by Bonny Puckett

Title

Mayhew Lodge

Artist

Bonny Puckett

Medium

Photograph - Photography

Description

The Mayhew Lodge was a historic hotel located in Oak Creek Canyon, a scenic gorge in northern Arizona, between Sedona and Flagstaff. The first building on the site was built in the 1870's by James "Bear" Howard, a legendary hunter and trapper who supposedly only traveled into town occasionally to sell bear meat and furs. The property was then expanded upon by the Thomas Family, who added some structures to the property and planted an apple orchard. In the early 1920's the property was purchased by the Mayhew Family, who were so captivated by the surrpundings that they decided toconvert the property into a lodge. They operated the lodge until 1968 entertaining high profile visitors such as Herbert Hoover, Walt Disney, Clark Gable and Jimmy Stewart. The lodge also served as inspiration for Zane Grey's novel Call of the Canyon.

After its closing the property was returned to the Coconino National Forest. Unfortunately, the Mayhew Lodge was destroyed in a forest fire in 1980, and all that remains today are the ruins of the buildings.

Despite their state of disrepair, the ruins of the Mayhew Lodge continue to attract visitors due to their picturesque setting and historical significance. They are situated near the trailhead for the West Fork (or Call of the Canyon) Trail on a beautiful piece of land overlooking Oak Creek. The surrounding landscape is characterized by towering red rock formations, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls. It is also one of the most popular trails in the state for viewing fall color.

Visitors to the ruins can explore the remnants of the lodge's main building, which includes the foundation, a few walls, and the fireplace of the original structure. Interpretive signage at the site provides information about the history and architecture of the lodge.

Overall, the ruins of the Mayhew Lodge serve as a tangible reminder of the early days of tourism in Oak Creek Canyon, and as a testament to the enduring appeal of the natural beauty of the area.

Uploaded

February 22nd, 2023

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