Kelly & Brett
Things To Do
Pine Trailhead
Complete the ~3 mile Pine Loop rated as easy with small uphill and downhill sections, occasionally narrow trail, and some rocky areas. You'll get beautiful views, lots of trees, and a chance to see some wildlife. There are multiple trails that intersect here so read the sign carefully at the trailhead. The loop consists of #28 Pine View, #26 Pine Canyon, and #31 Highline/Arizona Trail. https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/arizona/easy-loop-trail-az/
Bob Bear Trail *Currently Closed*
This trail provides access to the headwaters of the Fossil Creek Wild and Scenic River and the Fossil Springs Wilderness on the Tonto and Coconino National Forests. It descends 1,500 ft over 4 miles into the canyon where you come to a trail sign for the Spring or the Dam. We have done both hikes and would recommend checking out the waterfall and larger pools at the Dam, and then heading to the Springs to enjoy more solitude by the water as the Dam can get busy. Permits are not required Oct 2- March 31st of the year. Park at the trailhead, bring lots of water, and snacks and enjoy. Drive to the end of Fossil Creek Rd from Strawberry and park at the Bob Bear Trailhead.
Pine Creek Lavender Farm Store and Cooking School
Stop in to explore the lavender fields and pick up lavender products.
East Verde Estates Road
This small parking area offers access to the East Verde where you can relax or picnic under the trees, play in the water, and stretch your legs. We stopped here last Fall to enjoy the beautiful Fall colors provided by the numerous sycamore trees and walk around the water. Follow the water in either direction to escape the road noise. Look for the sign off the 260 just north of Payson before Pine.
THAT Brewery & Pub
Fun brewery with plenty of outdoor seating, delicious food, and good beer. The Strawberry Blonde and Arizona Trail Ale are our favorites.
Tonto Natural Bridge State Park
"The world's largest natural travertine bridge can be experienced at this gorgeous park located north of Payson in Arizona's famed Rim Country. Tonto Natural Bridge State Park is loaded with hiking trails, local wildlife, and mind blowing experiences of the bridge itself." There is an entrance fee of $7 for adults 14+, $4 for youth for 7-14, and free for children under 7.
Clear Creek Vineyard & Winery, Home of the Rio Claro Wines
Cute little winery about 36 minutes from Strawberry in Camp Verde.
Green Valley Park
"Green Valley Park is a 43-acre park, coined as the “Jewel of Payson”. Located at the end of Historic Main Street, this parks consists of 3 lakes, a playground, picnic ramadas, amphitheater, vast open space, and serves as the location of the Rim Country Historical Museum and Zane Grey Cabin. Green Valley Park offers many recreational pursuits, including: fishing, walks, beautiful sunsets, kayaking, concerts in the park."
Flagstaff
We took our first trip together to Flagstaff. This is a beautiful, small mountain town with lots of hiking, great pizza, and a ski resort. In the Fall there is some of the best foliage in Arizona. This is approximately 1.5 hours from Strawberry so a great day trip. We recommend hiking the tallest peak in Arizona, Humphrey's Peak at 12,633ft.. It's a beautiful but long 10+ mile scenic hike to the top.
Sedona
Another great destination 1.5 hours away is beautiful Sedona. It's an enchanting land full of red rocks, vortexes, and hiking. Don't miss Oak Creek Canyon, one of my favorite places in the world.