Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest

If you and Fido find yourselves in east-central Arizona, don't miss the chance to visit the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests! Whether you have an hour or a weekend, this 2 million-acre site along the Mogollon Rim and the White Mountains will definitely not disappoint! With more than 30 lakes and reservoirs, over 1,000 miles of rivers and streams, and nearly 1,000 miles of trails, this national forest is a dream destination for human and canine outdoor enthusiasts alike!

The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests feature several recreation and wilderness areas where you and your pooch can connect with nature and get away from it all. Big Lake, one of the better-known areas in the forest, draws visitors with its hiking, canoeing, birdwatching, and fishing opportunities. You will also find five campgrounds that you and Fido can call home for a few days; these range from RV parks with full hookups to tent-only campsites.

The forest contains four National Recreation Trails for adventurous doggos to explore, including the Escudilla Trail in Escudilla Wilderness. Spanning 3 miles, this path approaches the summit of Escudilla Mountain from Terry Flat Loop Road before leading you and your furry buddy to a fire lookout tower. Escudilla Wilderness also houses the Government Trail, which meanders up Profanity Ridge and offers puptacular views that extend all the way to Flagstaff!

Other notable areas in the forest are Bear Wallow Wilderness and Aker Lake. Bear Wallow Wilderness, which is home to some of the largest expanses of virgin ponderosa pine in the region, has five pawsome trails for you and Fido to tackle. The pristine Aker Lake, which is located at a higher elevation, provides a secluded spot to escape the heat of the arid Southwest. Wherever you and your pooch go in the Apache-Sitgreaves, always keep them on a leash and clean up after them. Be sure to bring lots of clean-up bags and water!

Experience east-central Arizona's woofderful mountain country with your pup at the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests!