Overview
Big Lake sits at 9,000 feet in the heart of the White Mountains section of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, surrounded by spruce-fir forest and bordered by meadows that attract elk and shorebirds alike. The 4-mile loop around the lake's perimeter is the most accessible hike in the White Mountains high country, gaining only 200 feet over the full circuit and rewarding walkers with continuous lakeside and meadow views.
This is the trail that introduces families and first-time visitors to the White Mountains. It doesn't demand the commitment of the Mount Baldy Trail or the Escudilla Mountain Trail, but the setting at 9,000 feet under a canopy of Engelmann spruce still delivers the high-country atmosphere that makes the White Mountains worth visiting.
Arizona summer heat is not a concern at Big Lake's elevation, but afternoon monsoon thunderstorms from July through September arrive with regularity. Many hikers carry 1-2 liters of water even on this short loop, though individual needs vary. The lakeside location with flush restrooms and water available at the trailhead makes this one of the most logistically easy hikes in the forest.
The Route
Miles 0 to 1.5: From the main trailhead near the boat launch, the loop follows the northeastern lakeshore through a mix of open meadow and spruce-fir forest edge. This section provides the most open water views and is the best stretch for watching osprey and, seasonally, bald eagles fishing the lake. The footing is flat and the path wide.
Miles 1.5 to 2.5: The trail rounds the southern end of the lake, transitioning more fully into forest cover. Elk frequently use this area in morning and evening hours. The forest floor in this section displays the wildflower diversity that characterizes the White Mountains in summer: columbine, paintbrush, and gentian are common through July and August.
Miles 2.5 to 4.0: The trail returns along the western shore, passing closer to the campground areas and boat launch facilities before completing the circuit at the starting trailhead. The final stretch offers views back across the full lake with the spruce-forested ridges as backdrop.
When to Visit
May through October, with the caveat that the recreation area facilities (campground, boat launch) may not open until late May. The trail itself is accessible whenever the road is open and snow-free.
Peak visitation is July and August, when Arizona residents travel to Big Lake for relief from valley heat. Weekends in summer see full campgrounds and busy trailheads. Arrive early on summer weekends for parking.
September and October offer a significant step down in crowds while conditions remain excellent. The high point of this shoulder season is the possibility of catching aspen color on the ridge slopes surrounding the lake.
What to Bring
- Water: many hikers carry 1-2 liters even on this easy loop; water is available at the trailhead facilities; individual needs vary
- Sun protection: UV intensity at 9,000 feet is higher than at lower elevations
- Rain layer: quick afternoon storms are common July through September
- Fishing gear if combining with time at the lake (fishing license required)
- Binoculars for wildlife and bird watching
This is an ideal trail to introduce younger hikers to basic Leave No Trace 7 principles. The popular setting makes proper waste disposal and staying on trail especially important.
Practical Details
The Big Lake Recreation Area charges a day-use fee during operating season as of 2026. The America the Beautiful Pass covers the fee. Veterans may be eligible for a free Access Pass; see veteran benefits in national forests for details.
Campground reservations for Big Lake fill weeks in advance during summer. Book through Recreation.gov; review the national forest camping permit guide for tips.
Dogs must be leashed in the developed recreation area. Wildlife, including black bears, frequents the lake edges. Store food and scented items in your vehicle or a bear-resistant container when camping.
Getting There
From Pinetop-Lakeside: Take AZ-260 east approximately 22 miles to AZ-273 south (Sunrise Park Road). Continue south on AZ-273 approximately 8 miles to the Big Lake Recreation Area turnoff on the right. The lake and recreation area are well-signed.
From Springerville/Eager: Take AZ-260 west to AZ-273 south, then follow signs to Big Lake. Total distance from Springerville is approximately 30 miles.