Top Apache County Outdoor Destinations, Safety Tips for Visitors

Apache County offers some of northern Arizona's most visited outdoor destinations, but local managers emphasize that good planning and respect for tribal and private lands are essential for safe visits. Canyon de Chelly National Monument, Becker Lake and the White Mountains near Sunrise attract year round recreation, yet each site carries specific access rules, weather risks and public health considerations that matter to residents and visitors alike.

Canyon de Chelly in Chinle is both a major scenic draw and a living Diné homeland. Visitors should begin at the Welcome Center in Chinle and use the North and South Rim Drives, which are paved. Most visits to the canyon floor require a Navajo guide or a permit, and there is no park entrance fee. Because GPS and cell coverage are unreliable across the Navajo Nation, travelers are advised to follow National Park Service recommended approach routes and to check operating hours and current access or alert notices before traveling. Allow a few hours for rim drives and overlooks, and note that ranger programs and guided canyon tours by registered Navajo guides are available seasonally. For planning and current conditions, the Welcome Center phone is 928 674 5500.

Near Springerville and Eagar, Becker Lake and the Becker Wildlife Area are managed as a trophy trout lake and a waterfowl destination. The lake sits at roughly 6,900 feet elevation, and offers two main hiking routes, the Lakeview Trail and the River Walk Trail, as well as a boat ramp, parking and restroom facilities. Wintering bald eagles have been reported in the area, making it a consideration for birders. Becker Lake is about two miles northwest of Springerville off US 60, and local visitor resources and trail maps are available through Springerville Eagar visitor information listings.

The Sunrise area in the White Mountains near Alpine and Springerville provides higher elevation recreation across seasons, from summer hiking and fall foliage to cross country and downhill winter activities at the ski resort. Dispersed wildlife viewing is common across the White Mountains. In winter, travelers should check resort webpages and U S Forest Service avalanche and snow bulletins, and be aware that road and trail closures are seasonal.

Public health and safety issues are central to the guidance for all these sites. Visitors should carry extra water and food, dress in layers for rapid weather changes at elevation, and keep a paper map and planned route rather than relying solely on GPS. Check for prescribed burn and smoke notices before travel, verify campground or lodging availability in advance, and respect tribal and private land access rules. Limited cell coverage and remote terrain can complicate emergency response, which raises broader questions about resource allocation for search and rescue, signage and public education in rural counties.

For Apache County residents, these destinations are important for recreation and the local economy, including tourism partnerships with Navajo guides and community businesses. Responsible planning and awareness of seasonal hazards help protect public health, support tribal sovereignty and ensure visitors can enjoy these landscapes safely. For more information contact the Canyon de Chelly Welcome Center at 928 674 5500 or consult Springerville Eagar visitor information online.