otoole01

Comments please regarding the scenic circle tour from Show Low - Pinetop - Hondah and beyond via 260 E. Then taking 273 S (right turn) to go to Crescent Lake. Back track on 261 to go north toward Eager. Pick up 260 W outside Eager and taking it to the Greer exit (Hwy 373). After a visit to Greer, return to Show Low via 260W. My question is this--is this route scenic? Are there other stops you would recommend in addition to Greer? Are there other less traveled but roads that would offer more spectacular scenery? We have a Jeep but we understand this area has received a lot of rain lately and we would not want to risk getting stuck. Could you also suggest 1 or 2 short, easy hiking trails along the way (3 miles or less). Likewise, a nice area for a picnic or restaurant along the way. We plan on taking this drive within the next 7 to 10 days and expect to devote the greater part of a day to this road trip. Our party consists of 4 "seniors". Thanks in advance for all of your suggestions.

happytrailstoyou

I tried to respond but I found it difficult to understand the exact route you intend. Perhaps others are having the same problem.

I know that Highway 87 between Payson and Mesa and Route 60 between Globe and Superior are scenic. Highway 60 between Globe and Show Low isn't very scenic except for the few miles through spectacular Salt River Canyon.

HTtY

suewoo

I agree. That Salt River Canyon is majestic.

When I lived in Pinetop, I enjoyed traveling to Phoenix that way. The Desert Arboretum in Superior is interesting if you like plants.

odie1

otoole-We have a cabin in Greer and are actually headed up there in about ten days, so I know the area well. First off, not too sure where you are coming from so I will preface with this: You will be at serious elevation on this drive, close to 10,000 feet. Please make sure to hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Also, as you mentioned there has been a lot of rain, it is monsoon season. These storms can come together QUICKLY and can produce unbelievable lightning. If you hear thunder, you can get hit so get to your car immediately.

"My question is this--is this route scenic?"
The drive you are talking about taking is extremely beautiful but do know parts of it were severely burned during the Wallow Fire. The route you are talking about taking is paved the entire way now, so no need to worry about road conditions.

"Are there other stops you would recommend in addition to Greer?"
Along your route, I would stop and get out at Sheep's Crossing, Lee Valley Lake and if interested the nature center at Big Lake.

"Are there other less traveled but roads that would offer more spectacular scenery?"
There are thousands of miles of dirt roads in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, so yes, there are many. You could continue on 273, it turns into a well maintained dirt road (though they ware working on it to eventually pave it) all the way to Alpine. This is a beautiful drive as well, and since you have a jeep you could easily manage this road. If you do this, you could take the turn off to the Big Lake Fire Tower (the tower is closed from damage from the fire but you can still walk up to it and that has a magnificent view-just don't do it if there are monsoons happening)

"Could you also suggest 1 or 2 short, easy hiking trails along the way (3 miles or less)."
There is a hiking trail out of Sheep's Crossing and you will pass the Baldy Trails as you go. There are a few nice hikes in Greer, including the Butler Canyon Nature Trail.

"Likewise, a nice area for a picnic or restaurant along the way"
On your planned route, you will pass NO restaurants and NO services once you you leave Hon Dah until you enter Greer, except for the convenience store at Sunrise Lake but that's only good for snacks. Picnics, which we always do are easily had at under shelters at Cresent Lake, Big Lake and in Greer at the Greer Lakes or there are open picnic tables along the Little Colorado River at Sheep's Crossing. There are bathrooms at all three, including bathrooms at Lee Valley. There is no trash services so you must take all of your garbage with you. If you continue on 273 to Alpine, there is a great little restaurant there, the Bear Wallow Cafe. If you wait to eat in Greer, there is the Rendezvous (closed Tues) and the Greer Cafe-both delicious.

Happy to answer any more questions you may have. This is God's country and truly one of the most beautiful places I have ever been!