Along the Mogollon Rim in Central Arizona, visitors find surprising outdoor recreation options in the cool pines. The rugged mountains here mark the transition zone from arid high deserts to the south to the vast Colorado Plateau to the north. Over such a huge expanse, this area of pristine backcountry features dramatic elevation differences that make the area popular in all seasons — attracting leaf-peepers in autumn and winter sport enthusiasts in the cold-weather months. Year-round, welcoming small towns make Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest a favorite place to drop off the grid.
Hit the Trails
From day hikes and fat-tire rides to multi-day backpacking adventures, hundreds of miles of trails in the forest are shared by hikers, trail runners, mountain bikers and horseback riders. Many forest trails are part of the White Mountain Trail System, which has options ranging from easy walks through the woods to tough summit climbs. Reach nearly 12,000 feet on trails that climb Mount Baldy or nearly 11,000 feet on remote hikes in the Escudilla Mountains. Find campgrounds throughout the forest, strategically positioned to access trailheads with ease.
Enjoy the Lake Life
Eight major lakes along the rim offer camping and outdoor recreation year-round. Small, motorized watercrafts are allowed on many area lakes, but most visitors bring in canoes, kayaks and fishing gear to maintain the peace and quiet of the forest. Fool Hollow Lake has campsites with lake views shaded by Ponderosa pine trees. Other lakes along the rim such as Woods Canyon Lake and Bear Canyon Lake set the stage for epic fishing trips and camping vacations. Trout are the big prize in these cool mountain lakes, with rainbow, brown and brook trout stocked year-round.
Find Adventure Around Every Turn
Winter visitors head to Sunrise Park Resort, Arizona’s largest ski resort located near the town of Greer. The foothills of Mount Baldy provide the backdrop for thrilling downhill and cross-country skiing. In the warmer months, Sunrise Park converts its steep slopes into mountain bike trails and welcomes visitors to ride the thrilling Alpine Coaster. Much of Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest wraps around the White Mountain Apache tribal community, which invites visitors to tour its impressive Fort Apache Historic Park. After touring some 30 structures at the Apache Wars-era military fort, visitors can turn to gaming at Hon-Dah Resort Casino. The woodsy lodging options at this tribal enterprise in Pinetop-Lakeside tempt day trippers to extend their stays in the forest.
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