Pinetop: Climate

Pinetop enjoys a varied four-season climate, with temperatures ranging from winter lows in the mid-teens to mild summer highs in the mid-eighties. Annual precipitation averages 20-30 inches, much of it in the form of winter snows — a boon to downhill and cross-country ski enthusiasts alike.

In the July-August rainy season, the area receives roughly 3 inches of rain per month from storms that drift off the Mogollon Rim to become the desert valley's monsoons. This same rainy season triggers the White Mountains’ late summer explosion of colorful wildflowers.

A smaller rainy season in February and March — averaging around 2 inches per month — combines with the spring snowmelt and summer rains to produce the myriad crystal lakes and streams found throughout the region.

Things to do in Pinetop

Things to do in Pinetop

Golfing

The White Mountains boast some of the most beautiful public and private golf courses in the state. There are eight public courses in the region, each with its own guidelines regarding reservations and dress code. Many of the courses include separate putting greens, driving ranges, pro shops, snack bars, and full service restaurants.

Biking

Exploring the White Mountains by mountain or road bike offers unique and memorable experiences. Mountain bikers heading into the National Forest can stop at the Lakeside Ranger District to pick up a copy of the White Mountain Trail System Guide, which rates trails based on length, change in elevation and type of terrain. Once the snows have gone from the slopes at Sunrise Resort, you can go downhill mountain biking. No need to ride uphill: there are bike carriers on the lifts. For more information, visit https://www.sunrise.ski/summer/downhill-mountain-biking/.

Skiing

Sunrise Park Resort is a recreational paradise offering a wide range of fun and excitement. In winter, their three mountains offer some of the finest skiing in the Western United States. 65 runs promise adventure for skiers of any level. There is also a separate snowboarding area, cross country ski trails and a special “ski-wee” area for children. For more information, visit www.sunriseskipark.com.

Fishing

There are more than 400 miles of rivers and streams along with over 50 lakes on the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest and White Mountain Apache Reservation. Some of the best fishing in Arizona can be found in the pristine waters of the Apache Indian Reservation. Located minutes from the Hon-Dah casino along State Route 260, fishermen can find native Apache Trout in such popular destinations as Hawley Lake, A-1 Lake, and Sunrise Lake.

Fishing in the mountain lakes of the Apache Indian Reservation requires special licenses, available for sale on the reservation. For more information, visit the White Mountain Apache Tribe at https://www.wmat.us.

For information on fishing within the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, contact the Forest Supervisor's office at (928) 333-6280, or visit them online at https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/asnf/recreation/fishing

Hiking

The White Mountains Trail System is comprised of 25-30 interconnecting, multi-use trail loops. Each trail takes maximum advantage of the beauty of the area while preserving the land, vegetation and wildlife. Landscaped urban trails have multiple entrance points to ease the access of residents and visitors. For more information, visit www.trackswhitemountains.org.

Camping

Well-maintained camping sites are spread over the entire White Mountain region in a variety of terrains. Higher elevations boast lush forests of pine, spruce, fir and aspen, while the lower country is covered with pinion pine, juniper, sycamore, and oak interspersed with rolling meadows and wildflowers. For National Forest campground information, call 1-877-444-6777. For Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest information, visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/asnf/recreation/camping-cabins

Antique Shopping

If antiques and collectibles are your passion, set aside plenty of time to explore!

Pinetop is home to exceptional antique & collectibles shops.