Apache–Sitgreaves National Forests, United States

Apache–Sitgreaves National Forests Travel Guide

Trek Zone

National park

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Arizona, the Apache–Sitgreaves National Forests offer a breathtaking escape into nature's embrace. With its sprawling wilderness and diverse ecosystems, this national forest is a haven for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

Spanning over 2 million acres, Apache–Sitgreaves National Forests is a nature lover's paradise. The forest is home to towering pine trees, crystal-clear lakes, and meandering streams that create a serene atmosphere. Whether you're an avid hiker, a passionate angler, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, this national forest has something for everyone.

Hiking enthusiasts can explore the vast network of trails that wind through the forest, each offering a unique perspective of its natural wonders. From leisurely strolls to challenging treks, there are options for all skill levels. As you venture deeper into the forest, you'll be rewarded with panoramic vistas, hidden waterfalls, and an abundance of wildlife.

For those seeking tranquility, the lakes and streams within Apache–Sitgreaves National Forests provide the perfect setting for fishing or simply unwinding by the water's edge. Cast your line into the pristine waters and try your luck at catching trout, bass, or catfish. The peaceful ambiance and the gentle sounds of nature create an idyllic backdrop for relaxation and reflection.

Photographers will find endless inspiration in the diverse landscapes of the national forest. Capture the golden hues of the autumn foliage, the snow-capped peaks in winter, or the vibrant wildflower blooms in spring. The changing seasons offer a kaleidoscope of colors, ensuring that each visit to Apache–Sitgreaves National Forests is a unique experience.

Camping enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the forest's natural beauty by spending a night under the starry sky. Numerous campgrounds dot the area, providing a rustic retreat where you can roast marshmallows over a crackling fire and fall asleep to the soothing sounds of nature.

Alternative names: Elevation: 6066 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 33°38'14"N, 109°51'32"W

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ArizonaUnited States

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Apache–Sitgreaves National Forests Top Attractions

Apache–Sitgreaves National Forests Attractions - What to See and Explore

Apache–Sitgreaves National Forests offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Black Canyon Lake, Luna Lake, Bear Canyon Lake, Hulsey Lake. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Nature • Natural attraction • Lake
Black Canyon Lake
Black Canyon Lake is a lake in Navajo County, Arizona, United States.
Nature • Natural attraction • Lake
Luna Lake
Luna Lake is a natural body of water that covers approximately 75 acres of land. It is located about three miles southeast of Alpine, Arizona, at the elevation of 7,890 ft, and is the centerpiece of the Luna Lake Wildlife Area.
Nature • Natural attraction • Lake
Bear Canyon Lake
Bear Canyon Lake is a lake built by Arizona Game and Fish Department for angler recreation. The facilities are maintained by Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest division of the USDA Forest Service.

Nature • Natural attraction • Lake
Hulsey Lake
Hulsey Lake is a lake near Escudilla Peak in the Apache National Forest, Arizona. It is located at 8,620 feet on the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests. It is an impoundment of Hulsey Creek, a tributary of Nutrioso Creek. Due to snow and ice, the lake is usually inaccessible from November to mid-April.
Nature • Lake • Natural attraction
Woods Canyon Lake
Woods Canyon Lake is a small lake located in northern Arizona, United States, about 30 mi east of the city of Payson. It is one in a series of small, canyon-bound lakes located on the Mogollon Rim, collectively referred to as the Rim Lakes.
Nature • Natural attraction • Lake
Carnero Lake
Carnero Lake is a high elevation shallow lake in Apache County, Arizona. Built in 1979, the lake quickly became popular with anglers, to the dismay of downstream water users.
Nature • Natural attraction • Lake
Big Lake
Big Lake is a White Mountains' fishing lake, with attractive size, productivity and visitor amenities. As with most trout waters in Arizona, catch rates are best in spring, during late April and May after the winter ice thaws, and get better later in the summer and into fall until the lake freezes over again in late November.
Nature • Lake • Natural attraction
Willow Springs Lake
Willow Springs Lake is a cold water lake located on top of the Mogollon Rim in northern Arizona, about 23 mi east of the city of Payson in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests, immediately adjacent to SR 260.
Nature • Mountain • Natural attraction
River Reservoir
Built in 1896 on the Little Colorado River, River Reservoir is the largest and deepest of a trio of lakes collectively known as the Greer Lakes. Drained since 2004 because of safety issues, the dam at River Reservoir was repaired in 2005. Like the other two Greer Lakes, it has new amenities.
Nature • Natural attraction • Lake
Rainbow Lake
Rainbow Lake is a 116-acre manmade lake near the town of Pinetop-Lakeside in southern Navajo County, Arizona, United States. The lake was created in 1903 when Mormon settlers dammed Walnut Creek, a tributary of the Little Colorado River, to impound water for irrigation.
Nature • Natural attraction • Lake
Crescent Lake
Crescent Lake is located approximately 2 miles north of Big Lake. The lake sits at just over 9,000 feet elevation on the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests, as such the facilities located here are managed by that authority.
Nature • Natural attraction • Lake
Chevelon Canyon Lake
Chevelon Canyon Lake is a small reservoir located in northern Arizona, about 28 mi northwest of the town of Heber. It is one in a series of small, canyon-bound lakes located on the Mogollon Rim, collectively referred to as the Rim Lakes.
Nature • Natural attraction • Mountain
Escudilla Mountain
Escudilla Mountain is located in Apache County, Arizona, and is part of the White Mountains. The peak is approximately 3.5 miles from the Arizona-New Mexico border.
Lake • Dam • Natural attraction
Tunnel Reservoir
Tunnel Reservoir is an artificial lake and recreational area located in the White Mountains around the town of Greer, Arizona. This reservoir is one of three lakes known as the Greer Lakes.
Nature • Natural attraction • Valley
Butler Canyon
Butler Canyon is a valley in the U.S. state of Arizona. Butler Canyon has the name of Jacob Noah Butler, a Mormon pioneer.
Lake • Nature • Mountain
Bunch Reservoir
Bunch Reservoir is one of a trio of lakes on the Little Colorado River that provides trout fishing opportunities in and around the town of Greer.
Tower
PS Knoll Lookout Complex
The PS Knoll Lookout Complex is a fire lookout tower and accompanying cabin located in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. It was constructed in the mid-1930s. The nine-acre site consists of 3 contributing buildings and 1 contributing structure. The buildings are a house, storage shed, and outhouse; the structure is the lookout tower.
Nature • Lake • Natural attraction
Nelson Reservoir
Nelson Reservoir is a reservoir located in Apache County, Arizona between Springerville and Alpine. The Reservoir is a long and narrow lake which follows the Nutrioso Creek Valley for nearly a mile.
Nature • Natural attraction • Lake
Ackre Lake
Ackre Lake is located in the White Mountains southwest of Alpine, Arizona, off State Route 191. This lake is located in and administered by the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests. The lake is stocked with trout and grayling. Tiger salamanders are also found in Ackre Lake.

Day trips

Apache–Sitgreaves National Forests – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Apache–Sitgreaves National Forests, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Sunrise Park Resort (Greer), Butterfly Lodge (Greer), Casa Malpaís Archeological Site and Museum (Springerville).

29 milesNE
Winter sport, Park, Outdoor activities
Sunrise Park Resort, Greer
Nestled in the heart of the White Mountains in Apache County, Arizona, Sunrise Park Resort is a premier destination for winter sports enthusiasts. This ski resort, owned and operated by the White Mountain Apache Tribe, offers a diverse range of activities, making it an...
35 milesNE
Museum
Butterfly Lodge, Greer
Butterfly Lodge is a five and half room log cabin, originally constructed as a hunting lodge in 1913 for the author, James Willard Schultz.
48 milesNE
34°7'58"N • 109°16'52"W
Casa Malpaís Archeological Site and Museum, Springerville
Museum
44 milesN
34°15'9"N • 110°2'10"W
Show Low Museum, Show Low
Specialty museum, Museum
48 milesNE
34°7'57"N • 109°16'55"W
Springerville Heritage Center, Springerville
Specialty museum, History museum, Art gallery

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Best Time To Visit Apache–Sitgreaves National Forests

Learn when is the best time to travel to Apache–Sitgreaves National Forests weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Popularity among visitors

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May, June and July are the busiest months in this location. Slightly fewer tourists decide to visit in August and September.

Average temperatures in °F

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The highest air temperature is in June, July and August. While the coldest is in January and February.

Monthly rainfall in inches

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The lowest rainfall is recorded in May. Most of it rains in July and August.

Length of day in hours

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We can expect the longest days in June, while the shortest in December.

Sunrise

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in Apache–Sitgreaves National Forests?

The top attractions to visit in Apache–Sitgreaves National Forests are:

What is the best time to visit Apache–Sitgreaves National Forests?

May, June and July are the busiest months in this location. Slightly fewer tourists decide to visit in August and September. The highest air temperature is in June, July and August. While the coldest is in January and February.