Arizona is a desert state. Arizona is a mountain state.
Both statements are true, and that incredible range of diversity is what makes Arizona so remarkable. Low and high elevation in such close proximity, warm desert and cool mountains stacked together create endless opportunities for adventure. In Arizona, we can change scenery and seasons with just a short drive.
Using Scottsdale as your base camp, plan a journey to the towering White Mountains of eastern Arizona. It is a land of deep pine forests, lush meadows, clear-running rivers and shimmering lakes—a terrain so relentlessly green it could have been plucked from the Pacific Northwest.
Rim Country
This is a chance to discover some of that rich diversity. It all starts with a spectacular scenic drive. From Scottsdale, head northeast on State Route 87 as it climbs through desert and grasslands to Payson. Then turn east on State Route 260, traversing the heart of Rim Country and gaining elevation all the way to the mountain towns of Pinetop and Lakeside, nestled amid the world’s largest contiguous ponderosa pine forest. Keep an eye peeled for mule deer and elk.
Pinetop & Lakeside
It may feel like a completely different world, yet you’ll arrive by lunchtime. Unless of course you stopped to fish or hike along the way. Speaking of lunch, that mountain air can whet an appetite. Treat yourself to a fresh and juicy burger at Lion’s Den Bar & Grill in Pinetop. The half-pound patties are cooked on a flattop and sloshed with a big gulp of red wine that explodes in a cloud of flavored steam, searing in a sweet smoky taste.
Woodland Lake Park
You can walk off a few calories at Woodland Lake Park. The 583-acre park features a 1.25-mile paved path circling the small lake, as well as picnic tables, playgrounds, and ball fields. The non-profit White Mountain Nature Center is on the grounds and includes exhibits, maps and information. They also host a raptor show every day except Monday. It’s truly breathtaking seeing these magnificent birds swoop right past you. The show is free but make a reservation to ensure your spot.
Horseshoe Cienega
Continue east on 260 where meadows sweep back the forest, and lakes appear around every curve. You can’t throw a rock in the White Mountains without hearing a splash. Horseshoe Cienga is just a mile down a dirt road, a beautiful, curved lake of 121 acres. This is a great fishing spot for those with limited mobility. Some anglers back their cars up to the water’s edge and set out lawn chairs. There’s a small campground and store. Permits are required from the White Mountain Apache Tribe.
You’ll soon reach Sunrise Park Resort. This is Arizona’s largest ski resort in the winter and an adrenaline-charged playground in the summer. It’s full of high-flying, fast-moving and bouncy thrills. You can ride the scenic chair lift to the 10,700-foot summit of Sunrise Mountain, with forest views rolling off in all directions. Or if that’s too slow-paced, take Arizona’s longest zip line tour soaring high above the pine trees for over a mile. There’s also the 300-foot tubing slide, airbag jumps, and downhill mountain biking.
Round Valley
Further east, 260 drops into the Round Valley where John Wayne once had a ranch. Here you’ll find the historic towns of Springerville and Eagar. Grab a bite at Booga Reds Restaurant, a longtime Springerville favorite, dishing up flavorful Mexican fare.
While you’re there, plan a visit to Casa Malpais Archeological Park. An ancient pueblo from the Mogollon Culture, Casa Malpais perches on a high terrace amid a field of volcanic boulders near Springerville. The site was occupied between 1250 and 1340, and contains an astronomical observatory, great kiva, and a natural stone stairway leading to breathtaking views. Both the Hopi and Zuni tribes consider Casa Malpais a sacred ancestral place. Tours of the site originate from the Casa Malpais Museum March through November. Admission to the museum is free but there is a fee for the tour, which involves a short hike with some steep rocky places.
