A White Mountains getaway: cabins and lakes

A White Mountains getaway is mostly about slowing down: rent a cabin in Pinetop-Lakeside, spend a day at a lake or in the pines, and take your time. The area is high and cool, which is why Valley families head there when summer gets hot. The directory lists cabins, motels, tours and attractions in the White Mountains and eastern Arizona, each with a phone number.

A simple plan for the weekend

Friday. Drive up and check in. Pinetop-Lakeside is roughly a three-and-a-half-hour drive from Phoenix, so leave in the afternoon and plan a simple dinner.

Saturday morning. Go outside early. A short hike, a walk at a lake or a coffee on the porch all work. If you plan to fish, check the current rules with the Arizona Game and Fish Department first.

Saturday afternoon. Rest, read or play board games. Summer storms often come in the afternoon, so keep the afternoon flexible.

Saturday evening. Cook out or eat in town. Cabins with kitchens and grills make this easy. For example, Pinetop Vista Cabins lists five furnished cabins with full kitchens, large decks and gas grills, and Northwoods Resort lists cabins in several sizes and is open year-round.

Sunday. Head home after a slow breakfast. If you want a longer loop on another trip, Meteor Crater is off Interstate 40 to the north and lists guided rim tours and a space museum, and the Route 66 towns of Winslow and Holbrook have historic hotels and motels.

Cabins, lodging and things to do

Here are the lodging, tours and attractions you can browse in eastern Arizona:

Tips for the White Mountains

• Bring layers. Mornings and evenings are cool, even in summer, and winter brings snow.
• Drink water. The elevation can make you tired or give you a headache on the first day.
• Check fire restrictions. In dry months, rules on campfires and grills can change. Ask your cabin host or the Forest Service.
• Watch for storms. Monsoon thunderstorms can bring lightning. Stay off open ground and out of the water if you hear thunder.
• Ask about pets. Several places on the list say they welcome pets. Confirm any fees or limits before booking.
• Book early. Summer weekends and holidays fill up.

What is there to do in Pinetop-Lakeside?

Most visitors come for the cabins, the lakes, the trails and the cooler air. Fishing, hiking, a short drive to a lake and an evening on the porch are the usual plan. Call a tour company or ask your cabin host about options.

Questions people ask

How far is Pinetop from Phoenix?

It is roughly a three-and-a-half-hour drive, depending on traffic and the route. Plan for a mid-afternoon arrival if you leave after lunch.

Is the White Mountains cooler than Phoenix?

Yes, by a lot in summer. Check the forecast, because mountain weather can change quickly.

Can I bring my dog to a White Mountains cabin?

Some cabins and lodges welcome pets, and the listings say so. Always call to confirm pet rules and any fees before you book.

Plan your trip with the trip planner, see the weekend trips guide, or browse lodging in Pinetop-Lakeside.