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Your Complete White Mountains Guide

Everything you need to plan the perfect Arizona mountain getaway

Events & Festivals Activities Seasonal Guide Dining Insider Tips Practical Info

From Phoenix

189 miles / 3.5 hours

Elevation

7,000 ft - 25-30°F cooler

Hiking Trails

200+ miles of trails

Lakes & Streams

60+ fishing locations

Annual Events & Festivals

Plan your visit around these popular White Mountains celebrations

Easter Weekend
Family

Easter Celebrations

Various community Easter egg hunts and celebrations throughout Pinetop-Lakeside and Show Low. Spring wildflower hikes begin as meadows come to life.

Various Locations
Early June
Free

Show Low Days

Derby Down the Deuce, huge arts & crafts festival, wiener dog races, Itty Bitty Olympics, live entertainment, and carnival rides for all ages.

Downtown Show Low, AZ
Event Details
June-Aug
Free

Pinetop-Lakeside Summer Nights

FREE outdoor concert series with live music, hot air balloon glows, and local vendors under the stars. Free shuttle service available.

1101 S. Woodland Rd, Lakeside
Concert Schedule
July 4th
Free

Show Low FreedomFest

One of Arizona's biggest July 4th celebrations! Massive parade, art show, farmers market, and spectacular evening fireworks display.

Frontier Park, Show Low
June-Aug
Cultural

White Mountain Apache Tribal Fair & Rodeo

Experience authentic Apache culture with traditional dances, crafts, food, and exciting rodeo competitions.

Whiteriver, AZ (30 min from Pinetop)
Tribal Website
Sept 26-28 2025
Free Entry

41st Annual Run to the Pines Car Show

575+ classic cars! Friday: Cavalcade of Cars parade through Show Low & Pinetop. Sat-Sun: Main show at Pinetop Lakes Golf Club. FREE admission with food donation.

Pinetop Lakes Golf & Country Club
Full Details
September
Family

Pinetop-Lakeside Fall Festival

Celebrate autumn with local crafts, seasonal treats, family activities, and stunning fall foliage.

Pinetop-Lakeside
Labor Day
Food

Taylor Sweet Corn Festival

Parade, arts & crafts, food vendors, entertainment, and plenty of fresh local sweet corn. Fun run, cornhole tournament, hay rides.

Taylor, AZ (45 min drive)
Late Nov
Free

Holiday Town Lighting Ceremonies

Multiple communities host tree lighting ceremonies with Santa's arrival, entertainment, and free cocoa. Snowflake Main Street Lighting is especially popular.

Various Towns
Dec 31
Free

Drop of the Deuce - New Year's Eve

Show Low's unique New Year celebration with firepits, hot cocoa, and fireworks. Family-friendly countdown celebration.

Show Low Downtown
Nov-Mar
Recreation

Sunrise Park Resort Ski Season

Arizona's largest ski resort opens Thanksgiving weekend. Special events include MLK Weekend night skiing and Presidents Day celebrations. Kids 12 & under ski FREE!

45 minutes from Pinetop
Ski Resort Info

Year-Round Activities & Attractions

Discover endless outdoor adventures in the White Mountains

White Mountains Trail System

  • Total Miles: 200+ miles of interconnected trails
  • Elevation: Average 7,000 feet
  • Trail Marking: Reflective markers every quarter mile with GPS coordinates
  • Uses: Hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, cross-country skiing (winter)
  • Website: trackswhitemountains.org

Family-Friendly Trails

Woodland Lake Park Trail

Distance: 1.5-mile paved loop
Difficulty: Easy, stroller-friendly
Scenic lake with playgrounds, picnic areas, disc golf, and fishing spots.

Show Low Bluff Trail

Distance: 1-mile loop
Difficulty: Easy
Meadow and creek views with stone footbridge crossing.

Springs Trail

Distance: 3.4-mile loop
Difficulty: Moderate
Beautiful ponderosa pine forest with some elevation gain.

Advanced Hiking

Mount Baldy Trail

Elevation: 11,400 feet - Arizona's 2nd highest peak
Difficulty: Challenging
Bucket-list summit hike with incredible views.

Thompson Trail

Distance: 5-mile round trip (near Greer)
Features: Alpine meadows, lakes, rivers, aspen groves
Vibrant spring wildflowers.

License Required: Arizona fishing license required (ages 10+). Purchase at azgfd.com. Additional permit needed for White Mountain Apache Reservation waters.

Top Fishing Lakes

Show Low Lake

Best For: Walleye (State Record: 16 lbs 2 oz!)
Also: Trout, bass, catfish
Year-round access, boat ramp available.

Rainbow Lake

Species: Trout, bass, catfish, northern pike
Boat rentals at Rainbow's End Resort. 10 HP limit.

Fool Hollow Lake

Size: 150 acres
Species: Bass, walleye, pike, trout
State park with camping and facilities.

Big Lake

Elevation: 9,000 feet
Size: 532 acres
Abundant trout, boat rentals, four campgrounds.

Woodland Lake

Size: 18 acres in town
Perfect for families, floating fishing dock
Park facilities and playground.

Pro Tip: Over 630 miles of trout streams within 30 miles of Greer, including the Little Colorado River and Black River. Spring stocking schedules available at azgfd.com.

Sunrise Park Resort - Arizona's Largest Ski Resort

  • Location: 16 miles south of Pinetop (45-minute drive)
  • Skiable Acres: 1,200 acres across three mountains
  • Runs: 65+ trails (45% beginner, 30% intermediate, 22% advanced)
  • Lifts: 10 chair lifts
  • Season: Thanksgiving through Easter (weather dependent)
  • Phone: (928) 735-7669
  • Website: sunrise.ski

2025-26 Special Deals

Kids Ski FREE!

Children 12 & under ski and ride for FREE all season. Seniors 75+ also receive free lift tickets.

Carload Mondays

$129 for entire carload (up to 8 people). Huge savings for groups!

Donation Tuesdays

Bring canned goods for discounted lift tickets. Support the community while skiing!

Three-fer Thursdays

Buy 2 lift tickets, get the 3rd FREE. Perfect for group outings.

Additional Winter Activities

  • Snowboarding & Ski Bikes: Full terrain available
  • Snow Tubing Hill: Family-friendly fun
  • Alpine Coaster: Year-round attraction
  • Night Skiing: MLK & Presidents Day weekends only
  • Cross-Country Skiing: Check Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest for trails

Play championship golf surrounded by towering ponderosa pines and stunning mountain views. The cool climate makes summer golf extremely pleasant!

Public/Semi-Private Courses

Birdie Ranch at Silver Creek

Type: Semi-Private
Holes: 18-hole championship course
Challenging layout, on-site restaurant
birdieranch.com

Bison Golf Club

Type: Semi-Private
Holes: 18 holes through tall pines
Beautiful mountain setting
bisongolf.net

Private Courses

Note: Private courses require membership or guest invitation. Contact clubs directly for information.
  • Pinetop Country Club: Championship 18-hole Gary Panks design - pinetopcc.com
  • White Mountain Country Club: 18-hole private course
  • Torreon Golf Club: Two championship courses (Tower & Cabin)

White Mountain Nature Center

Educational programs, easy trails, wildlife exhibits
Location: 425 S Woodland Rd, Pinetop-Lakeside
Open: Wednesday-Saturday
wmnature.org

White Mountain Family Fun Park

Go-karts, mini golf, laser maze, arcade
Location: Pinetop-Lakeside
Great for rainy days or evening entertainment

Hon-Dah Resort Casino

Gaming, live entertainment, dining, RV park
Location: Hwy 260 between Pinetop & Greer
Regular concerts and special events

Show Low Historical Museum

FREE admission! Miniature train room, local history
Highlight: Detailed replica of early Show Low
Perfect for families and history buffs

Seasonal Visitor Guide

Plan your perfect visit based on the season

Why Visit in Winter

Ski Season: Thanksgiving - Easter (weather dependent)

Winter Wonderland! Experience snow sports at Arizona's largest ski resort. Cozy cabin atmosphere with snowy mountain views.

Best Activities:

  • Skiing/snowboarding at Sunrise
  • Snow tubing
  • Snowshoeing & cross-country skiing
  • Ice fishing
  • Cozy cabin time by fireplace
  • Holiday light displays
  • Wildlife viewing in snow

Snow Conditions

Snow is common December-February. Always check road conditions at az511.gov before traveling. Chains may be required.

What to Pack

  • Warm winter coat, gloves, hat
  • Snow boots and waterproof gear
  • Tire chains (may be required)
  • Sunscreen (sun reflects off snow)
  • Sunglasses
  • Multiple layers of clothing

Important: Always check road conditions before winter travel. Drive slowly and allow extra time. Have emergency supplies in your vehicle.

Save Money

  • • Kids 12 & under ski FREE at Sunrise
  • • Carload Mondays: $129 per car
  • • Book weekday stays for best rates

Where to Eat

From cozy breakfast spots to upscale dining - discover the best restaurants in the White Mountains

Best Breakfast Spots

Darbi's Cafe
American Breakfast
LOCAL FAVORITE

The Legend! Often mentioned as the best breakfast in the White Mountains. Famous for huge portions, friendly service, and that perfect mountain diner atmosphere. Get there early on weekends - the locals know!

Pinetop
Get Directions
The Bistro at Annie's
Brunch & Coffee

Charming fairy garden atmosphere with excellent outdoor seating. Perfect spot for a leisurely morning brunch with great coffee. The vibe is relaxed and the food is fresh and delicious.

Pinetop
Get Directions

Lunch & Dinner

Munich Haus Grill-N-Beergarden
German
MUST TRY

Authentic German food with a great beer selection! The outdoor deck is perfect for sunny afternoons. Don't miss the famous Kraut Cauldron and their unique mustard station.

Pinetop
Get Directions
Mr. Zeke's Restaurant
Upscale American
FINE DINING

Top-rated fine dining with excellent service and upscale mountain ambiance. Perfect for special occasions, date nights, or when you want to treat yourself.

Pinetop
Get Directions
The House - Show Low
American Casual

Popular local spot known for great burgers and casual dining. Lively atmosphere with live music on weekends. The perfect place to unwind after a day on the trails.

Show Low
Get Directions
The Orchard
Fresh American

Highly rated for fresh, quality ingredients and creative menu options. The food is consistently excellent and the atmosphere is pleasant and inviting.

Pinetop
Get Directions
Charlie Clark's Steakhouse
Steakhouse

Classic mountain steakhouse featuring prime rib and quality cuts in a cozy lodge atmosphere. Perfect for hearty dinners after outdoor adventures.

Pinetop
Get Directions
Moose Henri's
Sports Bar

Casual sports bar atmosphere with some of the best wings in town. Great place to catch the game, enjoy pub food, and hang with locals and visitors.

Pinetop
Get Directions

Mexican & Italian

Los Corrales
Mexican
FAMOUS

Authentic Mexican cuisine that locals rave about. Their green chili sauce is legendary - many consider it the best in Arizona!

Show Low
Get Directions
The Crunchy Frog Pizza
Pizza

Creative pizza options with unique combinations in a fun, casual atmosphere. Great for families and groups. Quality ingredients.

Pinetop
Get Directions
Pitalian
Italian

Solid Italian fare in a comfortable casual setting. Good pastas, pizzas, and classic Italian-American dishes. Consistent quality and reasonable prices.

Pinetop
Get Directions

Greer Dining (40-minute scenic drive)

Molly Butler Lodge & Restaurant
Historic Lodge
EST. 1910

Arizona's oldest guest lodge! Established in 1910, this historic log cabin offers home-style cuisine in an authentic mountain atmosphere. Experience a piece of Arizona history.

Greer (40 min from Pinetop)
Get Directions
Rendezvous Cafe
Casual Dining

Scenic views of the Greer Lakes make this a wonderful spot for lunch or dinner. Casual mountain atmosphere with good food and beautiful surroundings. Great patio seating in summer.

Greer (40 min from Pinetop)
Get Directions

Insider Tips & Hidden Gems

Local secrets to enhance your White Mountains experience

Best Times to Visit

Peak Seasons:

  • Summer (June-Aug): Busiest - book early
  • Fall Foliage (late Sept-mid Oct): Very popular
  • Winter Holidays: Book ski weekends in advance

Best Value (Shoulder Seasons):

  • Late Spring (May): Wildflowers, fewer crowds
  • Early Fall (Sept before foliage): Great weather

Best Scenic Drives

  1. Hwy 260 to Greer: 45 min, stop at Pole Knoll for aspens
  2. Hwy 273 to Big Lake: 1 hour with multiple lake views
  3. Hwy 261 to Point of Mountain: Panoramic views, wildlife sightings

Best for Wildlife: Drive early morning or dusk on Highway 261 - frequent elk, wild horses, and deer!

Wildlife Viewing Tips

  • Best Times: Early morning or dusk
  • Top Locations: Greer meadows (elk & deer daily), Highway 261 area
  • Elk Rutting Season: September - October
  • Safety: Keep 75+ yards from elk, 100+ from bears

Hidden Local Favorites

  • Show Low Lake Rope Swing: Locals' swimming spot (south side near boat ramp) - only when water is high
  • Los Burros Campground: Remote, beautiful primitive camping
  • Woodland Lake Park: Perfect for easy family walks, playgrounds, disc golf

Nearby Towns Worth Visiting

Greer, AZ (40 min): Highest town in Arizona at 8,500 ft. Premium fishing, Butterfly Lodge Museum, stunning meadows. Must-see for aspen viewing!

Alpine, AZ (1 hour): Swiss-like setting, remote wilderness access.

Snowflake/Taylor (45 min): Historic Mormon towns, Sweet Corn Festival, less touristy.

Important Reminders

  • Elevation: 7,000+ feet - stay hydrated, take it easy first day
  • Monsoons (July-Aug): Afternoon thunderstorms common - plan morning activities
  • Winter Driving: Always check az511.gov before traveling
  • Cell Service: Generally good on main roads, spotty in remote areas

Practical Information

Everything you need to know for your trip

Drive Times to Major Cities

From Phoenix

  • Distance: 189 miles
  • Drive Time: 3.5 hours
  • Route 1: Hwy 87 to Payson, then Hwy 260 (scenic Mogollon Rim)
  • Route 2: Hwy 60 through Globe & Salt River Canyon (more dramatic)

From Tucson

  • Drive Time: 4 hours
  • Route: Hwy 77 north to Globe, then Hwy 60

From Albuquerque

  • Drive Time: 4 hours

From Las Vegas

  • Drive Time: 6 hours

Distances from Show Low

  • Pinetop-Lakeside: 15 minutes
  • Greer: 40 minutes
  • Sunrise Park Resort: 45 minutes
  • Big Lake: 1 hour
  • Fool Hollow Lake: 10 minutes

Nearest Airports

  • Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX): 3.5 hours - Major international airport
  • Albuquerque Sunport (ABQ): 4 hours - Major airport
  • Show Low Regional (SOW): Limited commercial service via Southern Airways Express

Emergency

Call 911

Law Enforcement

Medical Services

  • Summit Healthcare Regional Medical Center
  • Address: 2200 E. Show Low Lake Rd
  • Phone: (928) 537-4375
  • 24/7 Emergency Room
  • Website: summithealthcare.net

Road Conditions

  • ADOT 511: Call 511 or visit az511.gov
  • Always check before winter travel
  • Chains may be required in winter

Pinetop-Lakeside Chamber

Show Low Chamber

  • Address: 81 E Deuce of Clubs, Show Low
  • Phone: (928) 537-2326
  • Email: information@showlowchamber.com
  • Website: showlowchamber.com

White Mountain Nature Center

  • Address: 425 S Woodland Rd, Pinetop-Lakeside
  • Phone: (928) 368-6700
  • Open: Wednesday-Saturday
  • Website: wmnature.org

Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest

  • Phone: (928) 333-4301
  • Website: fs.usda.gov/asnf
  • Trail maps, camping info, permits

Fishing & Hunting Licenses

Arizona Game & Fish

  • Website: azgfd.com
  • Purchase licenses online
  • Stocking schedules
  • Regulations

White Mountain Apache Tribe

  • Website: wmatoutdoor.org
  • Permits for tribal lands
  • Purchase online or at merchants

Year-Round Essentials

  • Sunscreen (SPF 30+) - high elevation sun is STRONG
  • Sunglasses and wide-brimmed hat
  • Reusable water bottle (stay hydrated at elevation)
  • Layers of clothing (temperature swings)
  • Comfortable walking/hiking shoes
  • Camera and binoculars
  • Basic first aid kit

Summer Additions

  • Light jacket for cool evenings
  • Rain jacket (monsoon season)
  • Insect repellent
  • Swimming gear

Winter Additions

  • Warm winter coat
  • Gloves, hat, scarf
  • Snow boots
  • Tire chains
  • Ice scraper

Traveling with Pets

Many vacation rentals allow pets! Remember to bring:

  • Leash (required on trails and in town)
  • Current vaccination records
  • Pet-friendly accommodation confirmation
  • Food, water bowls, waste bags
  • Pet first aid supplies

Ready to Plan Your White Mountains Getaway?

Browse our luxury cabin rentals in Pinetop, Show Low, and Overgaard. Book your perfect mountain escape today!

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Questions about the area or need help choosing the perfect property?
Call us at (928) 438-2929