What's Happening in Apache County, Arizona?

Arizona is the second fastest growing state in the US. According to the 2000 census, Arizona's population increased by 40% in just 10 years! More and more people are moving to northern Arizona to escape the valley heat, own a retirement home, and enjoy the natural beauty. Here is an excerpt from a recent article in the Arizona Republic.
“Down in the Valley, the Valley so low; hang your head over and hear people go - to Pinal County, or up to more-temperate areas of the state. More Valley residents than ever are waltzing off to that tune to live in Arizona counties with amenities ranging from affordable housing to peaceful retirement, and cooler climes to wide-open spaces.

County Profile!

Ranging from high desert to mountainous terrain, Apache County boasts a diverse geography with some of the most spectacular views in the state.
Low cost of living, low crime rates, and communities where residents care about each other are the defining aspects of each of the local communities.
From the southwestern ranch style of St. Johns, to the forested mountain communities of Eagar and Springerville, you'll find an exceptional quality of life.
Activities include: Horseback riding, snow skiing/snowboarding, museums, cultural events, fishing, hunting, golfing, and boating.

Local Hot Spots

Monument Valley

Each year, millions of visitors, flock to this internationally famous destination. Here, visitors can drive into the park in private vehicles and camp in the park.
A Visitor's Center provides food and areas for demonstration of native arts and crafts, many of which are for sale.

Big Lake Recreation Area/Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests

An integral part of Apache County is the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests,
Home to one of the largest Ponderosa Pine stands in the world. The 2-million acre forest is home to more than 410 species of wildlife.
Each year, the 35 lakes, 680 miles of streams, 36 campgrounds, and over 950 miles of trails are visited over 5 million times.
The Big Lake Recreation Area is home to one of the largest newly developed recreation facilities, featuring improved campgrounds, hookups, and shower facilities.
During the winter months, the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest is also home to one of the largest winter recreation areas in the southwest, where cross-country skiing trails, snowmobile rentals, and sledding areas are open to the public.

 

Sunrise Ski Resort

65 runs over three mountains, separate snowboarding area, cross country ski trails, and a special children's area make this resort one of the most popular in the southwest.
Owned and operated by the White Mountain Apache Tribe, the high speed quad chairlifts, with a capacity in excess of 16,000 skiers per hour, are also open during the spring months for scenic viewing.

Petrified Forest National Park

Less than an hours' drive north of St. Johns is the internationally famous Petrified Forest National Park.
The largest park where visitors can walk among giant fallen petrified wood.