Arizonas High Country doesnt broadcast itself.
It doesnt flash neon or frame itself in hashtags.
You dont stumble into places like Greer or Forest Lakes Estates.
By Alan Levine from Strawberry, United States – Sleepy Town of Strawberry AZUploaded by PDTillman, CC BY 2.0,
This isnt Arizona the postcardits Arizona the margin.
In towns like Strawberry, the afternoon light slants hard across rusted metal roofs and sandstone porches.
You learn quickly: nobodys in a hurry.
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The silence has texture.
The wind has memory.
Pinedale and Young arent outfitted for tourismtheyre outfitted for living.
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Theres no curated charm, just long gravel drives and unspoken agreements with the land.
When the snow falls, it doesnt just cover roads; it seals you in with your thoughts.
And thats the draw: real seclusion.
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Not the kind advertised, the kind inhabited.
Arizonas High Country isnt retreatits recalibration.
The air is colder, the dark is darker, the quiet is thicker.
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And for those who seek it, these 10 neighborhoods arent escapestheyre arrivals.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, and exploring the nearby Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests.
Where is Vernon?
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Vernon is approximately 20 miles east of Show Low in Apache County, Arizona.
Pinedales peaceful setting and small-community feel make it a hidden gem in Arizonas high country.
Where is Pinedale?
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Pinedale is located in Navajo County, approximately 15 miles west of Show Low.
Accessible via State Route 260, it lies just south of the highway amidst the towering pines.
The communitys proximity to the Mogollon Rim means its surrounded by some of the states most stunning natural landscapes.
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Outdoor activities abound, including hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.
Happy Jacks seclusion and natural beauty provide a peaceful escape from the demands of modern life.
Where is Happy Jack?
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At an elevation of about 7,600 feet, it enjoys cooler temperatures and a refreshing mountain climate.
Its remote location within the national forest ensures that Happy Jack remains a quiet and undisturbed retreat.
Where is Parks?
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Parks is located in Coconino County, between Flagstaff and Williams along Interstate 40.
Situated at around 7,000 feet, it offers cool summers and snowy winters.
Home to around 600 residents, it boasts vast open spaces and low population density, offering unparalleled privacy.
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Where is Young?
Young is situated in Gila County, approximately 60 miles northeast of Globe.
Access to the community is via unpaved mountain roads, adding to its secluded nature.
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Travelers can take State Route 288 north from Roosevelt Lake, winding through the scenic mountains to reach Young.
The journey offers breathtaking views of the Sierra Ancha wilderness, making the trip as rewarding as the destination.
With about 1,000 residents, it offers expansive properties and a peaceful atmosphere.
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The limited commercial activity enhances its seclusion, allowing residents to enjoy the tranquility of mountain living.
Nearby attractions include Fossil Creek and the Strawberry Schoolhousethe oldest standing schoolhouse in Arizona.
Strawberrys natural beauty and historic charm make it a delightful retreat.
By Jedijoe82 – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0
Where is Strawberry?
Strawberry is located in Gila County, along State Route 87, just north of Payson.
Sitting at approximately 6,000 feet, it enjoys cooler temperatures and lush vegetation.
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The communitys proximity to the Mogollon Rim offers stunning vistas and easy access to outdoor recreation.
Home to around 2,800 residents combined, they offer large acreages and a peaceful environment far from major cities.
The communities forested prefs and tranquil ambiance make them ideal for those seeking a serene mountain lifestyle.
By Scotwriter21 – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0
Where is Heber-Overgaard?
Heber and Overgaard are located in Navajo County along State Route 260, approximately 55 miles east of Payson.
Nestled at elevations around 6,500 feet, they enjoy a moderate climate year-round.
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The communities accessible yet secluded location makes them a popular choice for full-time and vacation homeowners.
The area is known for its idyllic setting, surrounded by meadows, forests, and abundant wildlife.
Outdoor activities include fishing, hiking, and birdwatching, making it a perfect escape for nature lovers.
By Phillip Capper from Wellington, New Zealand – Alpine, Arizona, November 1990, CC BY 2.0
Greers tranquil ambiance and scenic beauty provide an ideal retreat from the demands of daily life.
Where is Greer?
Greer is located in Apache County, high in the White Mountains at approximately 8,500 feet.
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It lies south of State Route 260 and is accessible via State Route 373.
Travelers can reach Greer by taking State Route 260 east from Pinetop-Lakeside and turning south onto State Route 373.
The villages high elevation and remote location contribute to its cool climate and secluded charm.
Google Street View
With around 150 residents, it offers sparse population density and breathtaking natural beauty.
Alpines high-altitude setting and pristine environment make it a perfect destination for those seeking seclusion amid stunning landscapes.
Where is Alpine?
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Alpine is located in Apache County near the eastern border of Arizona.
Its accessible via U.S. Highway 180 and U.S. Highway 191, intersecting in the town.
To reach Alpine, travelers can take U.S. Highway 191 south from Springerville, enjoying scenic mountain views.
The communitys remote location within the White Mountains ensures it remains a tranquil and undisturbed haven.
With approximately 300 full-time residents, it offers large wooded lots and a peaceful environment away from urban centers.
Forest Lakes Estates hidden gem status lies in its seclusion, natural beauty, and outdoor adventure blend.
Where is Forest Lakes Estates?
Forest Lakes Estates is located in Coconino County, along State Route 260 atop the Mogollon Rim.
It lies approximately 35 miles east of Payson.
