Top 15 Activities and Attractions in Snowflake, Arizona

With its rich pioneer and Native American history, stunning scenery, and pleasant summer climate, the town of Snowflake attracts retirees, nature enthusiasts, and outdoor lovers from across the American Southwest.

Due to its relative isolation and often severe winter weather, the optimal times to visit are during the spring and summer. However, if one is willing to drive in snowy conditions, the winter landscape can be remarkably beautiful.

For those traveling from Phoenix, you might encounter a uniquely Arizona sight: endless vistas of snow-draped saguaros.

Below are 15 activities to experience in and around Snowflake.

1. Visit Snowflake’s Historic Homes

Snowflake’s charming and historic downtown features over 100 homes and buildings constructed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, many of which have been preserved and restored to reflect their original conditions.

Self-guided walking tours provide an excellent opportunity to explore the town’s history up close, or you can opt for guided tours that access eight homes featuring historical exhibits.

Whichever option you select, you will encounter remarkable architecture.

On the guided tour, visitors can view a blacksmith shop, a quilt-making demonstration, and many fascinating artifacts from earlier eras.

2. Snowflake Temple

Snowflake was established by Mormon pioneers in the late 19th century, named after two of the church’s most prominent members, with the last names of Snow and Flake. Many current residents are descendants of the original settlers.

Even for those not affiliated with the Mormon faith, the temple’s architecture and its contrast to the surrounding landscape is certainly worth examining.

The nearly 20,000-square-foot temple overlooks the town and contains stained glass representations of biblical scenes, original landscape artworks, and Native American artifacts.

3. Stinson Pioneer Museum

Situated just a block from Main Street, the Stinson Pioneer Museum focuses primarily on the pioneer period of the Snowflake area, along with the Native Americans who inhabited the region long before its official settlement.

The exhibits include photographs, clothing, and several restored rooms that depict the living conditions of the area’s early settlers, which were quite basic by contemporary standards.

Additionally, Native American pottery, baskets, and woven rugs are displayed.

The museum is managed by the Snowflake-Taylor Chamber of Commerce.

4. Snowflake Community Golf Course

With its elevation and picturesque pine and cottonwood-covered mountains, the scenery and summer climate in Snowflake are truly exceptional.

Featuring an 18-hole municipal golf course, Snowflake offers a delightful way to spend a morning or afternoon outdoors.

A round of golf is reasonably priced, with options for leagues, tournaments, and private lessons based on individual skill levels.

If walking the course is not preferable, golf carts are available for rent, and an on-site restaurant allows you to refuel after a day on the greens.

Operating hours are seasonal, thus it is advisable to check before visiting.

5. Willis Farm

Located in Snowflake, Willis Farm comes into full swing during the fall, attracting both locals and visitors eager to pick pumpkins and engage in various autumn activities.

The farm cultivates an array of pumpkins in diverse shapes and sizes, many characterized by unusual forms and whimsical names.

Whether in search of jack-o-lanterns, culinary pumpkins, or decorative autumn items, you are likely to discover what you seek here.

Moreover, the farm features an air-powered pumpkin launcher and a corn maze that is particularly appealing for children.

During the evening, a haunted corn maze is also available for those seeking thrills.

6. Show Low Museum

Local museums provide invaluable personal insights into the history and culture of the area you are visiting.

The Show Low Museum, located on East Deuce of Clubs in Show Low, is free to enter and dedicated to preserving the rich history of Show Low and Pinetop.

Knowledgeable and enthusiastic staff are on hand to lead tours and answer questions.

Plan to spend approximately an hour exploring the photographs, exhibits, and artifacts from the pioneer period.

It’s remarkable to see how much has changed and how remote the area was not so long ago.

7. Pioneer Park

While Snowflake is rich in history and culture, many visitors come to appreciate the fresh air, mountain vistas, and numerous outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, camping, and hiking.

To enjoy these attributes without leaving the town, visit Pioneer Park located on Main Street in Snowflake.

The park features an expansive playground for energetic children, along with ample open spaces for running and recreation.

Facilities include well-maintained restrooms and water fountains, as well as covered areas for dining, relaxing, or enjoying a good book.

Pioneer Park serves as a peaceful retreat after a day of exploration, and offers fantastic views of sunsets.

8. Etac Airsoft Supply & Battlefield

Located on North Main Street in nearby Taylor, Etac Airsoft offers a family-friendly paintball experience.

The venue features ample open spaces with props, obstacles, and structures that serve as excellent ambush points, giving participants a feeling of being in a battlefield.

No matter your experience level or physical ability, a suitable package is available, and the helpful staff can assist you in making a selection.

They provide rentals for guns, gear, and ammunition, and are an authorized dealer for several popular brands.

Saturdays tend to be busy, so early arrival is recommended.

9. Fool Hollow State Park

Located approximately 30 minutes south of Snowflake within the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, Fool Hollow State Park encompasses more than 800,000 acres across three Arizona counties.

The park has facilities to accommodate RVs and campers, well-maintained for accessibility.

A modest admission fee grants access to the park, with additional charges for camping and RV sites.

The area features an extensive network of trails ranging from family-friendly to challenging, suitable for walking, biking, and horseback riding.

Fool Hollow Lake is also a favored fishing destination, especially for those seeking trout and smallmouth bass.

10. Black Horse Brewery

Located on Burton Road in Show Low, Black Horse Brewery is an excellent place to enjoy a refreshing microbrew after a fulfilling day in the invigorating high desert air of the Mogollon Rim.

Though they have officially opened only since 2015, the family’s extensive brewing history is evident in every glass served.

The brewery frequently updates its offerings as they explore new concepts and recipes, ensuring a diverse selection.

Note that they maintain limited hours, but often open for special events like significant football games, so it is advisable to check their website before visiting.

11. Show Low Bluff Trail

With numerous trails within Snowflake and the expansive Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest nearby, finding suitable hiking paths during your visit should prove effortless.

Located on South White Mountain Road in Show Low, Show Low Bluff Trail is easily accessible and suitable for children, especially along the paved portion leading to the first bridge.

The creek beneath the bridge is a good location for fishing, with banks teeming with wildlife such as frogs, snakes, and egrets.

During spring and summer, expect to see an abundance of wildflowers as well.

12. Silver Creek Fish Hatchery

Covering over 800 acres along Silver Creek near White Mountain Reservoir, Silver Creek Fish Hatchery is operated by the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s Hatchery Program.

The high altitude and seclusion of the hatchery grounds support various wildlife, including elk, mule deer, coyotes, and birds such as ducks, hawks, and eagles.

The hatchery aims to supply the region’s creeks, streams, lakes, and reservoirs with both native and non-native fish species, enhancing their populations for recreational fishing.

The hatchery is open daily except on Christmas and Thanksgiving, with limited hours.

13. See the Sights on Two Wheels

Bicycling is an excellent method for covering vast areas rapidly, while simultaneously burning off extra calories accumulated during your trip.

The Los Burros Trail, situated in the White Mountains near Pinetop, winds through pristine old-growth forests.

While the high country weather can be unpredictable, spring and summer will likely yield the delightful conditions characteristic of the Mogollon Rim.

This 14-mile trail is located within the Apache Reservation and is generally of moderate difficulty, taking a few hours to complete.

14. Whitewater Rafting

Situated in the White Mountains, Salt River Rafting (SRR) has offered guided tours on Arizona’s Salt River since the 1990s.

The river’s mountain origins and significant elevation changes make it an ideal location for whitewater rafting; SRR is the exclusive provider of class III and IV rafting excursions in the area.

The Salt River’s deep gorges, along with untouched forests, geological formations, and saguaro cacti contribute to the breathtaking scenery rarely found elsewhere.

Rafting tours are seasonal, so it is wise to verify availability before planning your visit.

15. Pintail Lake

Situated just off Highway 77 in Show Low, Pintail Lake, along with its adjoining wetlands, is part of the Allen Severson Wildlife Park.

The wetlands are part of a reclamation initiative aimed at enhancing water quality and attracting wildlife.

Entry to the park and lake is complimentary, making it a favored spot for birdwatchers interested in observing a variety of bird species inhabiting the wetland area.

The park features numerous paved, wheelchair-accessible trails equipped with informative plaques and restrooms.

Additionally, a designated wildlife viewing area allows for an enjoyable experience while observing the local fauna.