If you’re looking for the ultimate guide to relaxing and spending time in nature, come along with me as I share our recent trip to Payson and the Mogollon Rim in Arizona.
Our dear friends Shira & Gordon (our Route 66 co-conspirators) came up with a last-minute trip to beat the heat in Phoenix and enjoy one of our favorite spots outside Payson and to the Mogollon Rim.
Many, many years ago (how did it go by so quickly?) I shared a couple posts on visiting these spots, but this post I’m concentrating on spending time outdoors in a relaxing manner.
As in no crazy hikes.
But to be honest, if you’re going to Payson, you’d better like the outdoors.
Because as an Arizona town, there isn’t much to do or see otherwise.
Sorry, Payson, but it’s true.
So. Let’s concentrate on the positive and how much I enjoyed not only our recent trip, but every single trip I take to the area.
It’s such a wonderful little day trip to beat a bit of the heat.
But, this time we stayed for more than a day and were treated to two thunderstorms while we were there. Heaven!
Woods Canyon Lake
The first area as you approach Apache-Sitgreaves recreation areas from Payson is the Woods Canyon Lake district.
From the main highway (260) there are paved roads for a few miles to the Woods Canyon Lake and the marina area.
There are several campgrounds and great places for easy hikes.
Any of the first parking areas are great places to begin a flat(ish) hike on a paved trail. I used my poles so if the group decided to go off the pavement and venture into any rockier areas, I was ready.
Shira is such a good photographer and most of the pictures are from her phone. She is the only person who can take a picture of a thistle weed and make it beautiful.
I just love all the delicate but hardy plants that grow in mountain areas.
Willow Springs Lake
A mile or two up Highway 260 is the turnoff for Willow Springs Lake. This lake is a favorite for fishing boats, kayaks and hiking.
There are not any paved hiking areas and the trails around the lake are a bit hard to follow, so while this is still a flat and easy hike, there is still navigation around rocks.
Green Valley Park
A city park off Main Street in Payson, Green Valley Park boasts a gorgeous fishing lake, walking paths and a county historical museum.
The bathrooms are clean and very nice. This really isn’t a bathroom post, but since you asked, I will say those mountain hiking areas only have outhouses. So using a running water, flushing bathroom is a huge plus.
We spent about an hour just enjoying the perfect morning taking in the beautiful trees, cattails, fluffy clouds and great friends. You know, all the things that make being outside the best!
Little Libraries
Even in pretty remote areas, I found many cabins and vacation homes boast little libraries. I am so charmed by them. I guess that’s the reader in me.
This one was on the block behind our resort.
Wrap Up
Nature is where I always find God the easiest. I pray that if your soul is looking for rest or for invigoration, you might be able to find your happy place outdoors.
If you’re a local or visiting Arizona, try checking out these areas and I hope you love them as much as I do.
Where did you stay while there? Inquiring minds want to know. We desperately need to get away.