Summer trip to Arizona's cool country

Perched at a cool 7,000 feet, Pinetop-Lakeside is the perfect summer playground, with its pine-scented mountain air, easy access to adventure, and instant tranquility, as well as the delightful discoveries found only in small towns like it.

Spend your days hiking, biking, or horseback riding in the surrounding wilds of the 1.6 million-acre Apache reservation and 2 million-acre Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests, and your nights dining and dancing at the local steakhouse.

Include a wildlife safari at dusk for a chance to see black bears, bald eagles, and the elusive Mexican gray wolf.

TRAVELING TO PINETOP-LAKESIDE

Pinetop-Lakeside is about 200 miles northeast of Phoenix on State 260 (also called White Mountain Blvd.). For more information, contact the Pinetop-Lakeside Chamber of Commerce (800/573-4031).

DINING

Charlie Clark's Steak House. Prime rib followed by drinks and, often, dancing in the orchard. $$$; lunch and dinner daily; Barn Bar at the Orchard Wed-Sun (call for music schedule). 1701 E. White Mountain Blvd.; www.charlieclarks.com or 928/367-4900.

Eddie's Country Café. Best BBQ in town, inside Eddie's Country Store: babyback ribs, chicken, and tri-tip, grilled to go in the parking lot. $$; lunch and dinner Fri-Sun. 1753 E. White Mountain Blvd.; 928/367-2161.

The Tuscan Glass Wine Bar & Restaurant. $$$; lunch and dinner daily. 1450 E. White Mountain Blvd.; 928/367-7400.

SHOPPING

The Burly Bear. Cabin-style furnishings, plus owner Trent Penrod's chainsaw-cut creations. Closed Sun. 1665 E. White Mountain Blvd.; 928/367-2327.

Harvest Moon Antiques. Navajo jewelry and tribal masks. 392 W. White Mountain Blvd.; 928/367-6973.

Honey Bear Antiques and Collectibles. Two-story log cabin with vintage tableware and other furnishings. 2251 W. White Mountain Blvd.; 928/368-4414.