Regional Attractions

Attractions

Greer and Alpine

A short drive to the south, you'll find the mountainside communities of Greer and Alpine. At elevations in excess of 8,000 feet, many residents of the urban communities of Phoenix and Tucson find the destination of the White Mountains as an escape from the summer heat, to marvel in the explosion of colors each fall, or to enjoy the winter recreational opportunities of skiing and snowmobiling in the winter. Primarily tourist destinations, these two community's popularity as a corporate retreat is growing, and with the shopping, dining, and siteseeing opportunities, you're sure to find activities for the entire family.

Petrified Forest National Park and the Painted Desert

Less than an hours' drive north of St. Johns is the internationally famous Petrified Forest National Park, the largest park where visitors can walk among giant fallen petrified wood. The Painted Desert, adjacent to the Petrified Forest, comes alive with a brilliant palette of desert colors for a sunrise or sunset that you won't want to miss!

Meteor Crater

50,000 years ago, with an explosive force greater than 20 million tons of TNT, a meteorite estimated to be about 150 feet across, slammed into the earth just a half-day's drive from Southern Apache County. Accessible via Interstate 40, the crater is 550 feet deep, 2.4 miles in circumference, and is open to the public. The Museum of Astrogeology, interpretive displays, guided rim trail hike, gift shop, and snack bar are found in the Visitor's Center.

Navajo Nation and Hopi Villages

Within a half-day's drive from St. Johns, visitors can tour the scenery of the Navajo Nation, famous for the "signature" southwestern scenery of Canyon de Chelle and Monument Valley. Monument Valley was a favorite location for western movie producers such as John Ford, who filmed many of his classics against the breathtaking backdrop of Monument Valley. Because of it's unique formations, Monument Valley is still used today in both film and television commercials, and is a favorite stopping point for European visitors wishing to experience the native southwest.

In this region, you'll also find the Hopi Villages, where artisans and craftsman display jewelry and the world famous Kachina dolls. On occasion, visitors may be allowed as spectators to certain religious dance ceremonies.

Lyman Lake State Park

Located just minutes from out of town, between St. Johns and Springerville, this 1,180-acre park encompasses the shoreline of the man-made reservoir. As one of the largest lakes in northeastern Arizona, there are no size restrictions on boats, thus allowing for speed boats and water skiing. The park features improved campgrounds and hookups, and its group ramadas are popular locations for local residents. Paved boat ramps, restrooms, showers, and a small herd of buffalo that reside in the park make the park a unique destination for residents and visitors. Special interpretive programs, tournaments, and fireworks are available throughout the summer months.

Sunrise Ski Resort

65 runs over three mountains, separate snowboarding area, cross country ski trails, and a special children's area make this resort one of the most popular in the southwest. Owned and operated by the White Mountain Apache Tribe, the high speed quad chairlifts, with a capacity in excess of 16,000 skiers per hour, are also open during the spring months for scenic viewing.

Big Lake Recreation Area/Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests

An integral part of the communities is the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests, home to one of the largest stands of Ponderosa Pine in the world. The 2-million acre forest is home to more than 410 species of wildlife. Each year, the 35 lakes, 680 miles of streams, 36 campgrounds, and over 950 miles of trails are visited over 5 million times. The Big Lake Recreation Area is home to one of the largest newly developed recreation facilities, featuring improved campgrounds, hookups, and shower facilities. During the winter months, the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest is also home to one of the largest winter recreation areas in the southwest, where cross-country skiing trails, snowmobile rentals, and sledding areas are open to the public.

Casa Malpais Ruins

Overlooking the Town of Springerville, the 17-acre ruins were occupied in the 13th century, and have been carefully preserved. Unusual features such as the Great Kiva, a catacomb burial area, stairways, astronomically aligned shrines, and petroglyphs provide visitors with a distinct view into the regions ancient past. Considered as one of the finest archeological parks in the southwest, a museum and gift shop displaying artifacts from the time period welcomes visitors in Springerville. Guided tours are also available.

Raven Site Ruins and Petroglyphs

Home to the Anasazi and Mogollon people, the prehistoric pueblo lies between the communities of St. Johns and Springerville, less than a half hour's drive from either community. Guided tours of the ruins are available, and hiking paths include both petroglyph and ethnobotany trails. Open from May through September, Raven Site also includes "hand-on" excavation, and day programs for adults and children.

Snowflake Historic Home tours

During the summer months, newly restored Pioneer homes in nearby Snowflake, a half-hours' drive from St. Johns, are open for public tours. Many of the homes have been restored to their original condition, and are complete with artifacts and period furniture depicting the lifestyle of the original Mormon settlers.