Summer trip to Arizona's cool country

HIKING

For maps and trailhead information on any of the trails listed, as well as others in the area, turn to the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests' Lakeside Ranger Station (2022 W. White Mountain Blvd.; 928/368-5111), or Pinetop-Lakeside Parks and Recreation Department (928/368-6700). The White Mountain Apache Reservation is open only for tours with Backcountry Safaris & Tours.

Here are our favorite area trails.
 
 

Ice Cave Trail 608. Moderate 3.5-mile trek (one way). The name refers to a cold lava tube ― a cavity where molten lava once flowed ― that's belowground (and inaccessible). White Mountains Trail System.

Mogollon Rim Interpretive Trail 615. Partly paved 1-mile loop with Mogollon Rim views. Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests.

Panorama Trail 635. Moderate 6-mile uphill loop with broad vistas. White Mountains Trail System.

Woodland Lake Park Loop Trail. Easy 1.1-mile lakeside walk. Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests.

ADVENTURES

Backcountry Safaris & Tours. Tours explore the remote White Mountain Apache Reservation. From $59, from $49 for ages 2-14; reservations required. 1450 E. White Mountain Blvd.; 928/521-3646.

Porter Mountain Stables. Daily rides through Sitgreaves National Forest. From $27 for 1 hour. 4048 Porter Mountain Rd.; 928/368-5306.

FESTIVALS

Contact www.pinetoplakesidechamber.com or 928/3657-4290 for more info.

16th Annual Bluegrass Music Festival. 9-5 Sat, 9-4 Sun; $10. Hon-Dah Resort Casino fairgrounds (at State 260 and State 73).

31st Annual Fall Festival Arts & Crafts Show. 9-5 Sat, 9-4 Sun; $2. Mountain Meadows Recreation Complex (off Woodland Rd.).

LODGING

Pinetop-Lakeside is filled with folksy B&Bs and moderately priced chain motels, but we love these classic cabins.

Lake of the Woods. Traditional log and chalet-style cabins ringing a private stocked lake. 34 cabins from $99. 2244 W. White Mountain Blvd.; www.lakeofthewoodsaz.com or 928/368-5353.

Northwoods Resort. Pine-shaded clapboard cottages complete with fireplaces and decks. 14 cottages from $99. 165 E. White Mountain Blvd. (State 260); www.northwoodsaz.com or 800/813-2966.

Whispering Pines Resort. Cabins with knotty-pine (or modern) interiors, some with spa tubs, all with cozy fireplaces. 38 cabins from $89. 237 E. White Mountain Blvd.; www.whisperingpinesaz.com or 800/840-3867.