Mogollon Rim Day Trip Arizona
The Mogollon Rim Road is less than 100 miles from Phoenix, which makes it a completely viable day trip for residents of the city. Plenty of mature pine trees and rocky landscapes offer completely different views than we’re accustomed to here in the Valley of the Sun.
Forest Road 300 is at a much higher altitude than Phoenix and the surrounding areas, so you’ll start to notice some interesting changes even on the approach. Cacti and desert succulents are gradually replaced by towering pines along the way, so the drive is pleasant and also serves to prepare you for what you’ll find when you reach the Mogollon Rim.
What Is the Mogollon Rim?
The Mogollon Rim is one of the most beautiful natural landscapes in Arizona. It came to be as long as 250 million years ago as flooding and erosion created striking cliffs in limestone and granite. Since the elevation is so much higher here than it is in Phoenix, temperatures can be as much as 30°F cooler, so dress accordingly, especially if you plan on getting out of the car to go on some long walks.
It’s primarily known for lush evergreen forests, but you can also find other trees like oaks and junipers. This variety of vegetative life makes it attractive to people who are interested in seeing colorful plants, especially in the fall. Make the day trip whenever you need a change of scenery.
Rim Road 300 AZ
Rim Road, also known as Forest Road 300, is one of the main attractions near the Mogollon Rim. The entire drive is scenic, and you’ll be treated to some spots along the way that offer especially expansive views.
Plan to take this drive slowly so you can take it all in, and there are plenty of places to stop along the way. If you have a fear of heights, we do recommend that you pick your spots carefully, because some spots along Rim Road 300 and the surrounding trails are situated near large drops along the cliff.
At its eastern extremity, Rim Road meets the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. Continue along the road, heading west, and you’ll start to pass through the Coconino National Forest. Between these two national forests, you’ll see a good deal of trees, meadows, hiking trails, and possibly even wildlife. If you take Forest Road 300 far enough west, you’ll be connected to State Route 87.
If you plan to travel the entire Rim Road, expect to spend the better part of two hours driving on gravel. It’s not an especially stressful drive compared to some roads, but it’s also far from the straight, paved highways we’re used to in other parts of Arizona. For this reason, it’s best to take this trip in a capable, dependable, comfortable vehicle.
What to Do Near Mogollon Rim
There’s so much to see in this part of the state, it’s easy to simply drive around and take it all in. If you’re interested in a more specific experience, though, we recommend grabbing a Mogollon Rim map and planning out your activities. The area offers opportunities to participate in a wide variety of different outdoor activities, so there’s something for just about everyone.
In addition to the great areas for hiking, picnicking, and observing wildlife, there are multiple lakes that allow boating and fishing. If you plan on participating in those kinds of activities on the water, just make sure you know the rules. Some of the lakes have different regulations about which types of boats are allowed, and you’ll need to have an Arizona fishing license if you plan on dropping a line or two.
Lakes Near Mogollon Rim
Here are just a few of the popular lake areas near the Mogollon Rim:
Bear Canyon Lake AZÂ
This lake is down in a canyon, and you can get to it by snowmobile in the winter if you’re interested in an especially unique experience. During the summer, you’ll need a capable vehicle because the route involves several miles of driving down a dirt road. It’s one of our favorite places to do some trout fishing.
Knoll Lake AZ
 Another great location for trout fishing, Knoll Lake is home to multiple different kinds of trout. Road access to this lake is unavailable during the winter, so plan your visit accordingly. Even if you don’t want to catch any trout, this lake offers excellent scenery thanks to the surrounding pine woods.
Willow Springs Lake AZÂ
Just a few miles from the intersection of Rim Road and Route 260, Willow Springs Lake is yet another great fishing spot in the area. You may even be able to try your hand at ice fishing during the winter. Before you go out on the ice, please make sure to check for safety updates and make sure you have all the necessary gear.
Woods Canyon Lake AZÂ
If you don’t have a lot of your own gear, Woods Canyon Lake may be a good place to start. There are rentals available for both boats and supplies, and you can even get your Arizona fishing license. Alternatively, just take in the forest and the water.
Other Activities Near Mogollon Rim Road
Even if fishing and boating aren’t necessarily up your alley, you’ll be able to find plenty to do near the Mogollon Rim. Quaint mountain villages offer places to stop for lunch, which is nice for people who work up an appetite by enjoying the hiking trails in the area. Here are three of our favorite ways to relax and recover after we hit the trails in the area’s national parks:
Drive the Christopher Creek LoopÂ
Cristopher Creek is a short road just a little bit west of Rim Road on Route 260. It gets its name because it passes through the village of Christopher Creek in the mountains. As you may guess from the name, Cristopher Creek sits on a creekbed, which offers another appealing visual aspect in addition to its views of the cliffs.
Visit Historic Main Street in Payson Â
Almost directly in the middle of Arizona, Payson is a modern town nestled amongst ancient scenery. One of the main draws here is Historic Main Street, which is lined with interesting antique shops, art galleries, and more than a few places to eat. If you’re feeling especially ravenous after a day of driving and hiking, we recommend that you catch a bite in a diner, and don’t forget to save room for pie.
Stop by the Rim Country MuseumÂ
Also in Payson, the Rim Country Museum provides an opportunity to immerse yourself more completely in the area’s history. Displays track the progression of events starting with the Apache people through the world’s oldest continually operating rodeo and up to loggers and pioneers. Visit the Zane Grey cabin replica to learn more about the life and work of legendary storyteller Zane Grey.
Planning Your Trip to the Mogollon Rim
Before you hop in your car and start driving toward Forest Road 300, it’s a good idea to do a little bit of preparation. Start by considering what you want to get out of this experience. What is it that attracts you most to the area? To refresh, your options include all of the following:
Scenery near the Mogollon Rim AZÂ
If you just want to see whatever there is to see, you won’t have to worry quite as much about getting ready for the trip. Of course, this will still be a considerable drive over a road that can be challenging at times. Choose a capable vehicle, and it might be good to bring along some food and water to make sure you and your passengers can stay comfortable for the duration of the day.
Hiking near the Mogollon Rim AZÂ
Don’t forget to account for the cooler temperatures when the elevation rises. If you’ll be spending a lot of time outside the vehicle, you may want to have a sweatshirt or rain jacket. You can also check the weather conditions before you go, especially during seasons when fires, rain, or snow are more likely. Comfortable shoes are a must-have item as well.
Boating Near the Mogollon Rim AZÂ
To state the obvious, you’ll need access to a boat if you plan on going out on the water. If you don’t have a boat, make sure you’re planning your visit around a lake where you can rent one. If you plan on bringing your own, just make sure the type of boat you have is permitted on the lake you’re visiting. Of course, you’ll also want to make sure your vehicle is capable of getting the boat down to the water, especially if driving conditions are suboptimal.
Fishing Near the Mogollon Rim AZÂ
You’ll need an Arizona fishing license in addition to whichever gear you plan on using. Some of the lakes in this area will allow you to rent everything you need for a day of fishing, so plan on visiting one of those places if you don’t have a lot of your own gear.
History of the Mogollon Rim AZÂ
There are two sides to the history in this area: the human and the natural. You can learn more about both by visiting places like the Rim Country Museum in Payson.
You can also get a great sense for the Mogollon Rim’s natural history just by visiting the right parts of the area. The entire place is the result of some interesting geographical events, and you’ll find evidence of some of the state’s largest recorded fires if you know where to look.
Best Vehicles for Mogollon Rim Arizona
One common theme you’ll keep seeing as you plan your trip to Forest Road 300 is that the right vehicle can make all the difference. We recommend something comfortable enough for a long drive and capable enough to handle the roads. Some of the best vehicles for the Rim Road include the following:
- 2020 Silverado HD – If you plan on towing a boat with you, trust the Silverado’s best-in-class capabilities to make it easier on the mountain roads.
- 2020 Suburban – Bring a group of up to nine people with comfortable seating and enough ground clearance to conquer the terrain.
- 2020 Trax – Big enough for people and some gear, but small enough to maneuver on tight roads, the Chevy Trax is a capable compact SUV.
Premier Chevy Dealerships in Arizona
You can find a Valley Chevy dealership in just about every part of the Valley of the Sun, and each of them offers the best Chevrolet vehicles at fair prices. We look forward to your visit, and our friendly staff will be able to help you find the right vehicle for all of your future road trips. Whether it’s a short day trip or a cross country adventure, a Chevy will get you where you’re going dependably. Find a location near you to learn more.
