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Discover Gila County Explore the Wild - Discover Gila County. Your next adventure is waiting in the largest ponderosa pin
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Join 'Miami Music in the Park' this Saturday afternoon!The event will be held June 29 from 6:00 to 9:00PM.G-City DJs kic...
25/06/2024

Join 'Miami Music in the Park' this Saturday afternoon!

The event will be held June 29 from 6:00 to 9:00PM.

G-City DJs kicks off the town of Miami’s summertime music in the park series this Saturday, June 29, from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. Sponsored by Miami Genesis - thanks to a generous grant from the United Fund of Globe-Miami!

Outdoor summer concerts are free – but make sure you bring cash for snack bar options which usually include delicious red or Chile Burros (a smokin’ deal at $4); tasty bean burros, nachos, cheese crisps, soda, candy and popcorn were available, too.

Beautiful shot of the Mogollon Rim in the background as the clouds hang low in the valley.  We have been getting a littl...
25/06/2024

Beautiful shot of the Mogollon Rim in the background as the clouds hang low in the valley. We have been getting a little rain, you can almost feel the forest coming alive, just in time for the 4th of July. If you are coming up to go camping or play in the forest, be aware there are fire restrictions in place for the entire Tonto National Forest. For details click here: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/tonto/alerts-notices/?aid=87844

Annual Christopher Creek Patriotic ParadeWHEN: Saturday July 6th.Line up 10:15 AMWHERE: Christopher Drive and 260 Loop a...
25/06/2024

Annual Christopher Creek Patriotic Parade
WHEN: Saturday July 6th.
Line up 10:15 AM
WHERE: Christopher Drive and 260 Loop across from Fire station.

FOR SAFETY
Large Vehicles, Jeeps, Trucks, Classics, Vehicles with Trailer Line Up, North Side. ATV - SUV’s - Golf Carts - South Side of the 260 Loop.

11:00 AM the Parade Begins with the sound of the siren.
You are responsible for your ride, your passengers, and be aware of all spectators.

Parade Ends at the Landmark. Food and Refreshments, Popsicles for the kids.

Fire Belles having Ice Cream at the Fire Station at 11:30 AM.
Stop by on your way of Christopher Drive where the Parade began.
Enjoy, Be Safe, Be Respectful of, and be aware of your surroundings.
Celebrate America’s Day of Independence.

We ask you to please refrain from passing out alcoholic beverages on the parade route.



Fun events happening in Globe Miami this weekend!
25/06/2024

Fun events happening in Globe Miami this weekend!

Dawn breaking over Roosevelt Lake in Gila County, AZ.  Going to be a good day!
24/06/2024

Dawn breaking over Roosevelt Lake in Gila County, AZ. Going to be a good day!

Some photos from today’s opening day of the Tonto Creek Bridge.
22/06/2024

Some photos from today’s opening day of the Tonto Creek Bridge.

THE BRIDGE IS OPEN in PUNKIN CENTER (Tonto Basin)!On this Saturday June 22, 2024, Gila County will celebrate the complet...
21/06/2024

THE BRIDGE IS OPEN in PUNKIN CENTER (Tonto Basin)!

On this Saturday June 22, 2024, Gila County will celebrate the completion of its $25-million bridge over Tonto Creek. Come join the celebration at State Route 188 & Greenback Valley Road, in Tonto Basin.

The bridge actually opened for traffic on Monday, but the county will stage a grand-opening celebration from 10 a.m. to noon, which will include speeches, a party vibe, and a chance to stroll across the wide, 2,000-foot-long span across the flood prone creek.

𝐒𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐝𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐛𝐨𝐧-𝐜𝐮𝐭𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐠𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐩𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐜 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠.
𝐎𝐮𝐫 𝐬𝐡𝐮𝐭𝐭𝐥𝐞 𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐮𝐧 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝟗 𝐚.𝐦. 𝐭𝐨 𝟏:𝟑𝟎 𝐩.𝐦., 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐬𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐮𝐭𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐇𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈𝐆𝐀 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐥𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬.

𝐒𝐡𝐮𝐭𝐭𝐥𝐞 𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐏𝐮𝐧𝐤𝐢𝐧 𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐤𝐢𝐜𝐤 𝐨𝐟𝐟 𝐚𝐭 𝟖 𝐚.𝐦. 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐫𝐮𝐧 𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐥 𝟏:𝟑𝟎 𝐩.𝐦., 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐮𝐩 𝐩𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐥𝐢𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐫𝐲.

Shaded seating and water will be available at the ribbon cutting ceremony; bring your own cash for a variety of breakfast and lunch options from food trucks including Gila Hogs BBQ; Bento Guy; Copp’s Brick House Tacos & Taters and Taqueria La Familia.

For more info, visit the Gila County website at
https://www.gilacountyaz.gov/news_detail_T5_R705.php

See you all there!

Photos by Gila County and Melissa Wile

Some New Kids on the Block. These are probably all less than two weeks old and there're plenty more coming.  Rocky Mount...
20/06/2024

Some New Kids on the Block. These are probably all less than two weeks old and there're plenty more coming. Rocky Mountain elk in Pine, Arizona.

Thanks for the share Robert Mcmenemy awesome photo of the Wild that surrounds Gila County!

Wow, look at those beauties!  Those are some nice Bass taken this last weekend in Roosevelt Lake.  The fish are biting! ...
20/06/2024

Wow, look at those beauties! Those are some nice Bass taken this last weekend in Roosevelt Lake. The fish are biting!

Thanks for the share Freddy Valtierra!

Payson's 4th of July Hometown Celebration is only a few weeks away.  Check out all the details.
20/06/2024

Payson's 4th of July Hometown Celebration is only a few weeks away. Check out all the details.

There isn’t a better place to spend 4th of July than in Arizona’s hometown! Come enjoy family fun, gorgeous weather, and everyone’s favorite, fireworks!

Four Peaks from Roosevelt Lake ⛰️
17/06/2024

Four Peaks from Roosevelt Lake ⛰️

14/06/2024

Come Discover the Beauty of Arizona's Rim Country 🌲

Come join the Payson Flag Day CeremonyIn Payson, AZFri Jun 14th 10:00am - 11:00amGreen Valley Park, 1000 W Country Club ...
13/06/2024

Come join the Payson Flag Day Ceremony
In Payson, AZ
Fri Jun 14th 10:00am - 11:00am
Green Valley Park, 1000 W Country Club Dr, Payson, AZ 85541
Hosted by the Payson Lion’s Club
Date: June 14th, 2024

📍Roosevelt Lake BridgeYep it is time to go to the lake! Explore Arizona’s largest lake and dam this summer, which holds ...
12/06/2024

📍Roosevelt Lake Bridge
Yep it is time to go to the lake! Explore Arizona’s largest lake and dam this summer, which holds more than 1.6 million acre-feet of water. https://www.discovergilacounty.com/roosevelt

📷 by Salt River Project

Check out the amazing events happening in San Carlos, Arizona!  Tons of fun and culture!
12/06/2024

Check out the amazing events happening in San Carlos, Arizona! Tons of fun and culture!



Tonto National Forest Waives Day-Use Fees June 19 Day use fees at recreation areas on the Tonto National Forest will be ...
11/06/2024

Tonto National Forest Waives Day-Use Fees June 19

Day use fees at recreation areas on the Tonto National Forest will be waived June 19, the second of two June dates when picnic grounds, shorelines, and boat launches operated by the Tonto won’t require a purchase of a pass.

However, fees charged by concessionaires at facilities they operate on the Tonto National Forest – as well as fees for overnight camping at developed campgrounds on the Ton, are not waived.
Visitors are also reminded that Tonto officials implemented emergency Stage 1 fire restrictions and recreational target shooting restrictions across the entire forest. The fire restrictions order and map are on the Tonto’s website – as well as closure orders for the recent Adams and also Wildcat Fires.
https://www.fs.usda.gov/tonto

For updates, like-and-follow
https://www.facebook.com/TontoNationalForest

Summer is here and that means music in our Gila County Parks.  Whether you live in Payson or the Globe/Miami Area you ca...
07/06/2024

Summer is here and that means music in our Gila County Parks. Whether you live in Payson or the Globe/Miami Area you can find the sweet sounds of summer. Check out the lineups for the next couple weeks.

👉Payson, AZ
Summer Concert Series - John Carpino
Sat Jun 8th 7:00pm - 9:00pm
Green Valley Park, 1000 W Country Club Dr, Payson, AZ 85541, USA

👉 Miami/Globe, AZ
Bullion Plaza Live music by Robert Bigando and the Tumbleweeds
Fri Jun 14th 6:30pm - 8:00pm
Bullion Plaza Cultural Center & Museum, 150 N Plaza Cir, Miami, AZ 85539, USA

👉 Payson, AZ
Summer Concert Series - The Rhythm Edition
Sat Jun 15th 7:00pm - 9:00pm
Green Valley Park, 1000 W Country Club Dr, Payson, AZ 85541, USA

Bring your family and your favorite lawn chair, and join hundreds of fellow music enthusiasts for a beloved small-town summer tradition. Each concert starts at 7pm and runs until around 9pm.

Do you know of a live summer music event in Gila County? Make sure you add it to our Tourism Calendar on the Discover Gila County website at https://www.discovergilacounty.com/special-event-calendar - Click on the "Green Submit" button to add your live music event to our calendar.

Looking to get out on the trails this week?  How about the Highline Trail.  There are access points near Christopher Cre...
06/06/2024

Looking to get out on the trails this week? How about the Highline Trail. There are access points near Christopher Creek and Pine Arizona. It is a gem for hiking enthusiasts. Stretching for about 54 miles, this trail runs along the base of the Mogollon Rim, offering diverse landscapes from dense forests to open meadows. The elevation changes provide a moderate challenge, making it suitable for both day hikes and multi-day backpacking trips.

The Highline Trail is part of the much larger Arizona Trail, established in 1870, it was used to travel between homesteads and to attend school in Pine. Zane Grey and Babe Haught used the Highline Trail while hunting on the Mogollon Rim. The portion of the Highline Trail from Washington Park TH and Pine TH is part of the Arizona Trail.

Along the way, you'll encounter beautiful views of rugged canyons, towering pines, and vibrant wildflowers, with opportunities for wildlife sightings. Click on the link below for information.

https://www.discovergilacounty.com/_files/ugd/ee8a22_d872d37c317043fda265d4a890163cd1.pdf





AZ Hiking Group





Just a reminder that The Christopher Creek Store will be having their Grand Opening on Saturday June, 8 2024.  Stop by a...
06/06/2024

Just a reminder that The Christopher Creek Store will be having their Grand Opening on Saturday June, 8 2024. Stop by and see what the new owners, Ashley and Christopher Stovall have done to improve the Store and all the ideas they have for Christopher Creek. Let them know Discover Gila County sent you!

Under new management, an old business is getting a shot of vitality in Christopher Creek, Arizona! Next time you are out visiting Kohls Ranch, or taking a hike on the Horton Trail - stop in and say hi to the folks at Christopher Creek General Store and let them know Discover Gila County sent you!

We have a winner in our Free Vacation Giveaway to Pine/Strawberry.  Join me in congratulating Lori Faye - you are going ...
04/06/2024

We have a winner in our Free Vacation Giveaway to Pine/Strawberry. Join me in congratulating Lori Faye - you are going to have a great time!

Don't worry if you did not win this giveaway. We have another one that started just yesterday to Christopher Creek, Arizona, and it is awesome! Check it out and enter to win - https://www.facebook.com/discovergilacounty/posts/769504765366604

Fun times!  Summer is off to a great start in Globe/Miami!  See details below.
04/06/2024

Fun times! Summer is off to a great start in Globe/Miami! See details below.

FREE VACATION GIVEAWAY – ENTER TODAY!NEW DISCOVER GILA COUNTY GIVEAWAY TO CHRISTOPHER CREEK, ARIZONADISCOVER THE HISTORY...
03/06/2024

FREE VACATION GIVEAWAY – ENTER TODAY!
NEW DISCOVER GILA COUNTY GIVEAWAY TO
CHRISTOPHER CREEK, ARIZONA
DISCOVER THE HISTORY, ADVENTURE AND BEAUTY OF THIS ARIZONA TREASURE

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure with Discover Gila County's NEW free getaway to the Gateway of the Mogollon Rim Lakes and the enchanting Christopher Creek area! Set against the backdrop of Arizona's stunning Mogollon Rim Country, this trip promises a unique blend of natural splendor and exhilarating activities. Picture yourself in one of the charming creekside cabins, each built between the 1950s and 1990s, with its own distinct character. Wake up surrounded by majestic pine trees and breathe in the fresh mountain air.

Explore the wonders of the Tonto National Forest on trails like the Babe Haught Trail, Horton Trail, and See Spring Trail. Discover the spring-fed streams of Tonto and Christopher Creek. Bring your fishing pole to catch one of the many rainbow trout glistening in the sunlight—it is an ideal setting for a delightful picnic. Satisfy your appetite with delicious meals at local eateries featuring everything from juicy cheeseburgers to hearty Western fare.

As night falls, relax under the twinkling stars, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories by a cozy campfire. This area is also steeped in literary history, as famous Western author Zane Grey once had a cabin nearby, adding an extra layer of allure to your stay. This Christopher Creek getaway is your chance to embrace adventure, relaxation, and create lasting memories. Enter now to experience the heart of Arizona like never before!

GEARING UP:

Half the excitement of this getaway lies in the preparation, and with a $200 gift basket and the help of our friends at Christopher Creek General Store, we aim to enhance your experience. Nestled at the heart of this beautiful community, this iconic family-owned store, now under the new management of Ashly and Christopher Stovall, continues its legacy of providing essentials and novelty items with genuine warmth and care. When you step inside, you'll quickly realize they're more than just a quick stop; they're a destination in their own right. At Christopher Creek General Store, you'll find everything you need, from freshly brewed coffee to toothpaste and more. Our shelves are stocked with groceries, beer and wine, ice, firewood, propane, and freshly baked sweets, ensuring you're fully equipped for a comfortable and memorable getaway in Christopher Creek. As a bonus, the winner will receive a gift voucher for the gift basket, which you can conveniently pick up when you arrive at the store during your visit. The gift basket includes a plush elk, an outdoor survival guide, a locally made quart vase with a bear design, an embroidered camping tea towel, a forest animals wooden magnet set, Crown maple syrup, organic pancake/waffle mix, a black General Store trucker hat with a leather patch, a wood Christopher Creek bottle opener, a natural candle with a mossy rock creek scent, two wax fire starters, a Ready Yeti multi-tool, a Trees koozie, locally made prickly pear jelly, and a voucher for one locally made baked goody and one large coffee drink.

Check them out on Facebook and tell them Discover Gila County sent you:

https://www.facebook.com/christophercreekstore

WHERE YOU WILL STAY:

Enjoy 2 nights at Christopher Creek Lodge, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Arizona's Tonto National Forest, offering a unique blend of rich history and natural splendor. Established over 80 years ago, this charming lodge has evolved from a humble retreat to a beloved destination, deeply intertwined with the story of Christopher Creek itself. Visitors can immerse themselves in the area's heritage by exploring the lodge's general store, featuring local crafts and souvenirs that reflect the region's culture. The rustic cabins, constructed between the 1950s and 1990s, each carry a unique character, providing a glimpse into the past while offering modern comforts like air conditioning, kitchenettes, and private bathrooms.

Check out their website at: https://christophercreeklodge.com

WHERE YOU WILL EAT:

A big part of this adventure is the food, and in Christopher Creek, culinary delights await. Indulge in country-style BBQ and savory pizzas, complemented by the area's hearty authentic Western cuisine. Discover the most amazing peach cobbler, a local favorite that captures the essence of homemade goodness. Savor high-quality certified Angus Beef dishes, ensuring every bite is a flavorful delight. Explore affordable mouthwatering dinner specials that highlight the culinary richness of Arizona's high country, offering a delectable dining experience amidst the natural beauty of Christopher Creek.

LUNCH OR DINNER

The lucky winner of this getaway will enjoy a $150 meal voucher to Creekside Steakhouse & Historic Tavern, an iconic dining establishment that has been a cornerstone of the Christopher Creek area for nearly 44 years. From its humble beginnings to being listed in the esteemed "Arizona's 100 Best Restaurants" book, the restaurant and tavern offer a delightful culinary experience. Guests can relish in family-style meals, special menu items, heavenly homemade desserts, and daily specials available Monday through Sunday. Reservations are recommended, given the popularity of Creekside Steakhouse & Historic Tavern as a dining hotspot in Christopher Creek. A visit to this charming spot will undoubtedly become a cherished tradition, just as it has been for generations of families from Arizona and beyond.

Check out their website at:
https://cabinsatcreekside.com

DINNER

Guests of this Christopher Creek getaway will receive a generous $200 meal voucher for Zane Grey Restaurant, where comfort food takes center stage. Get ready to indulge in specialties like country-style BBQ and mouthwatering pizzas that tantalize the taste buds. Don't miss out on their renowned peach cobbler, a delicious testament to homemade goodness. Zane Grey Restaurant proudly serves hearty, authentic Western cuisine, including high-quality certified Angus Beef dishes. Guests can explore tempting dinner specials that are both affordable and irresistible, promising a dining experience to remember in the heart of Zane Grey country.

Check out their website at:
https://www.diamondresortsandhotels.com/Resorts/Kohls-Ranch-Lodge/Dining

THINGS TO DO:

HORSEBACK RIDING ADVENTURE IN THE FOREST

As part of this Christopher Creek getaway, the winner will also delight in a complimentary trail ride for two people at Kohl's Ranch Stables. Saddle up and explore the breathtaking scenery of Zane Grey country on horseback, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Arizona's Tonto National Forest. Traverse winding trails, meandering creeks, and majestic pine forests, taking in panoramic views and feeling the exhilaration of the wild. The horses are gentle and ensure a serene and enjoyable experience for riders of all levels. For younger guests, we also offer pony rides, providing a fun and safe introduction to the world of horseback riding. Whether you're exploring on horseback or enjoying a pony ride, the horses love the experience as much as you do, adding an extra layer of joy to your Christopher Creek experience.

Check out their website at: https://kohlsranchstables.com

SETTING OUT ON A HIKING ADVENTURE

The winner of this Giveaway will receive a backpack filled with hiking essentials courtesy of Christopher Creek Real Estate, and it's not just any backpack—it's your ticket to unlocking the wonders of Christopher Creek's breathtaking wilderness. Inside, you'll find a trusty compass to guide your exploration, a durable water bottle ensuring hydration on every trail, and protective chapstick and sunscreen to keep you comfortable under the sun's rays. With detailed hiking maps at your fingertips, you can confidently navigate the area's scenic trails, while a versatile cap and bandana provide crucial sun protection. As the day transitions to evening, a reliable flashlight ensures safe passage, matches come in handy for campfire warmth and ambiance, and energizing granola bars keep you fueled for adventure. This thoughtful collection of essentials not only enhances your outdoor experience but also represents a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Christopher Creek, creating cherished memories along the way. If you win, you will be given a voucher to pick up your backpack during your visit. Don't forget to tell them Discover Gila County sent you!

Interested in living in Christopher Creek? The team at Christopher Creek Real Estate can show you around. Check out their website at: https://www.christophercreekrealestate.com

THE FISH ARE BITING

One of the most captivating activities in this area is fishing along the picturesque Tonto Creek. Nestled amidst the stunning landscapes of Christopher Creek, the Tonto Creek offers an unparalleled fishing experience surrounded by breathtaking beauty. Cast your line into the clear waters, where the serene atmosphere is only interrupted by the gentle flow of the creek and the occasional splash of a jumping trout. The surrounding scenery, with towering pine trees, rugged cliffs, and lush vegetation, creates a tranquil and immersive environment for anglers of all levels. As you reel in your catch, take a moment to absorb the natural splendor around you, making every fishing excursion on Tonto Creek a memorable and awe-inspiring experience.

Learn more about fishing spots, swimming holes and Canyoneering opportunities on the Tonto Creek.
https://www.discovergilacounty.com/tonto-creek

HIKING TRAILS ABOUND

Discover iconic hikes in the Christopher Creek area that promise breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences. Explore the Babe Haught Trail, renowned for its stunning vistas of rugged canyons and lush forests, offering a challenging yet rewarding trek for seasoned hikers. For a more leisurely adventure, the Horton Trail leads to a majestic waterfall, where hikers can cool off and admire the natural beauty of cascading waters. The See Spring Trail is another must-visit, offering serene paths dotted with wildflowers and scenic overlooks that showcase the splendor of Christopher Creek's landscape. In addition to these trails, Christopher Creek also offers hikers access to the Highline Trail. The Highline Trail in Arizona is a historic and scenic hiking trail that stretches approximately 54 miles along the base of the Mogollon Rim. Known for its rugged terrain and stunning vistas, it traverses dense forests, crosses numerous creeks, and offers a challenging yet rewarding experience for outdoor enthusiasts. These iconic hikes epitomize the beauty and diversity of this Arizona wilderness, making each step a journey of discovery and wonder.

For area trails visit: https://www.discovergilacounty.com/hiking-payson-ranger-district

EVERYBODY LOVES A FIREFIGHTER

The Christopher Creek Kohl's Fire Department extends a special invitation to the winner of this getaway, offering a complimentary interactive tour to showcase their efforts in protecting the world's largest stand of ponderosa pine forest from devastating wildfire. Guests can enjoy a guided tour of fire apparatus and trucks, view historical pictures, and engage in conversations with seasoned firefighters who have devoted their careers to safeguarding this area of Arizona from wildfires for decades. This is guaranteed to be a highlight of your adventure. If you are bringing kids with you, this is a must-do!

HOW TO ENTER TO WIN THIS AMAZING GETAWAY PACKAGE!
2 RULES TO ENTER TO WIN!

1. "LIKE THIS POST" – It's that simple. We like knowing that you are interested in what we are doing!
2. "CHOOSE YOUR FAVORITE PICTURE" – In this post, there are 35 pictures of Christopher Creek, Arizona, the surrounding area, and the highlighted businesses. In the main thread, tell us which one(s) you like the best? If you leave a comment about why you like a particular picture, we will give you another entry into the contest. So, if you comment on each picture, you could get 35 extra entries into the giveaway contest.

This Giveaway is not associated with Facebook. The contest ends on Monday, July 1, 2024 at 11:59 pm. The winner will be selected on Tuesday, July 2, 2024. The winner will be drawn from those who complete the rules as outlined above.

DON'T forget to tell your family and friends about this Giveaway so they can enter the contest as well. We invite you to DISCOVER all the adventures Gila County has to offer – visit: https://www.discovergilacounty.com

Special thanks to all our amazing sponsors for making this a fantastic giveaway! DISCOVER GILA COUNTY WILL NEVER ASK YOU TO GIVE US YOUR CREDIT CARD OR BILLING INFORMATION. WE WILL NOTIFY YOU DIRECTLY IF YOU WIN AT THE END OF THE GIVEAWAY.

Thinking of planning your own trip to Gila County? Visit https://www.discovergilacounty.com for over 500 pages of information, photos, videos, stories, history, upcoming special events and more!





















MYTH OR LEGEND?  We wanted to have some fun this Friday before another amazing weekend here in Gila County.  We bet some...
31/05/2024

MYTH OR LEGEND?

We wanted to have some fun this Friday before another amazing weekend here in Gila County. We bet some of you are going to come visit the outdoors this weekend...but have you ever thought there might be someone or something...that is lurking in the shadows?

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE MOGOLLON MONSTER!

The legend of the Mogollon Monster is a fascinating and eerie piece of Arizona folklore, primarily centered around the Mogollon Rim near Payson, AZ. This creature, often likened to Bigfoot, is said to haunt the dense pine forests and rugged terrain of this region. The Mogollon Rim, a significant geological feature, provides the perfect backdrop for such a legendary beast, with its steep cliffs, expansive forests, and remote wilderness.

Origins and Early Sightings

The origins of the Mogollon Monster legend are somewhat obscure, blending Native American folklore with more modern accounts. Indigenous tribes of the region, such as the Apache and the Hualapai, have long told stories of mysterious creatures inhabiting the deep forests. These tales often described a large, hairy, man-like beast that lurked in the shadows, occasionally revealing itself to unsuspecting travelers.

The more contemporary legend of the Mogollon Monster began to take shape in the early 20th century. One of the earliest documented sightings dates back to the 1900s when a pioneer named I.W. Stevens reported encountering a creature near the Mogollon Rim. Stevens described the beast as having long white hair and matted beard that reached to its knees, with a face covered in hair except for the space around its eyes and forehead. It was reported to be over six feet tall and to emit a blood-curdling scream, a characteristic often repeated in subsequent accounts.

Description and Behavior

The Mogollon Monster is typically described as a large, bipedal creature, standing between seven and ten feet tall, covered in long, dark hair. Witnesses often report its piercing red eyes and a distinctive, pungent odor reminiscent of decay or skunk. The creature is said to be incredibly strong and agile, capable of navigating the rugged terrain of the Mogollon Rim with ease.

Behaviorally, the Mogollon Monster is known for its elusiveness and keen sense of awareness. It is primarily nocturnal, with most sightings occurring at dusk or during the night. Witnesses often describe a feeling of being watched or followed, only to catch a fleeting glimpse of the creature before it disappears into the forest. Some reports include strange sounds, such as eerie howls, screams, or even a language-like chatter attributed to the creature.

Modern Encounters

In the latter half of the 20th century, sightings of the Mogollon Monster became more frequent, often reported by hikers, campers, and hunters in the area. One notable encounter occurred in 1947 when a Boy Scout leader and his troop reported seeing a large, hairy creature near Tonto Creek. The leader described the creature as being over eight feet tall and covered in hair, with large, glowing eyes.

In the 1970s, a series of sightings near Payson further solidified the legend. Numerous individuals reported seeing a similar creature, describing its distinctive scream and foul odor. These encounters often included instances of the creature leaving behind large footprints or other physical evidence, such as broken branches or disturbed foliage.

Cultural Impact and Skepticism

The Mogollon Monster has become a significant part of local culture and folklore in Arizona. It features in various books, television shows, and documentaries about cryptids and unexplained phenomena. It has also become the mascot for the Town of Payson's Adventure Where We live Program. The creature is often a topic of discussion among cryptozoologists and paranormal enthusiasts, who compare it to other Bigfoot-like legends across North America.

However, the existence of the Mogollon Monster is met with skepticism by many. Critics argue that sightings can be attributed to misidentifications of known animals, such as bears, or hoaxes perpetuated by those seeking attention. Despite the skepticism, the legend persists, fueled by the mysterious and untamed nature of the Mogollon Rim.

Conclusion

The legend of the Mogollon Monster near Payson, AZ, continues to captivate and intrigue those who hear it. Whether viewed as a genuine cryptid, a product of folklore, or a symbol of the unknown wilderness, the Mogollon Monster remains an enduring part of Arizona's cultural landscape. The dense forests and rugged cliffs of the Mogollon Rim serve as a fitting home for such a mysterious and elusive creature, ensuring that its legend will endure for generations to come.

If you enjoyed this, leave us a like and maybe a comment about your thoughts on the Mogollon Monster. Is he or she really out there? Guess you will just have to visit and see! 😳😱😁

Cheers 🥂 Cowgirl Style at Cherry Creek Lodge in Young, Arizona!  Looking to enjoy an authentic cowboy or in this case co...
30/05/2024

Cheers 🥂 Cowgirl Style at Cherry Creek Lodge in Young, Arizona! Looking to enjoy an authentic cowboy or in this case cowgirl adventure, check out www.cherrycreeklodge.com - the wild west still lives here!

Picture by Kathy Hunt!




Buy fresh, buy local – and support Globe-Miami growers at the Globe-Miami Farmers Market Saturdays 8:00 - 11:00 AM at Gl...
29/05/2024

Buy fresh, buy local – and support Globe-Miami growers at the Globe-Miami Farmers Market
Saturdays 8:00 - 11:00 AM at Globe City Hall Park
Sat Jun 1st 8:00am - 11:00am
Veterans Park outside Globe City Hall, 150 North Pine Street, Globe, AZ 85501

Fresh Veggies, Fruits, Bread -- Jams, Jellies, Cosmetics & Gifts at the Globe Farmer’s Market

Saturday morning from June - August at the farmers market from 8:00 – 11:00 outdoors at the park outside city hall. Got surplus produce from your garden or fruit trees – pastries, cookies or unique crafts to sell?

New vendors are welcome -- find applications at globemiamifarmersmarket.com/vendor-application.html
The fee is just $10 to be a vendor
There’s no charge at all for nonprofit 501c3 organizations to sell or have an informational table or booth, for details
call or text DeAnna Sanders at 602-316-3868
or email [email protected] for an application, or if you have questions.

Preview vendors and see new photos each week -- please like-and-follow the ‘Globe-Miami Farmers Market Group’
www.facebook.com/groups/5676283449148923

Check out this whopper, caught at Roosevelt Lake in Gila County.  Smiles had by all!  Thanks Wyndie Whitney for the shar...
28/05/2024

Check out this whopper, caught at Roosevelt Lake in Gila County. Smiles had by all! Thanks Wyndie Whitney for the share! Great Memories.

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Explore the Wild - Discover Gila County

Welcome to the heart of Arizona and access to amazing outdoor adventure. Home to 7 wildernesses, like the Hell’s Gate Wilderness and Mazatzal Wilderness areas this maybe some of the most “Wild”, beautiful and due to its remoteness less explored territory in the United States. That is until now! The Gila County Board of Supervisors in early 2018 approved a never-been-done-before marketing plan that would showcase the entire area and shed light on all the amazing adventures, activities, special events, diversity, history and culture of this amazing part of Arizona. From 2,000 feet above sea level through the grand saguaros to the amazingly beautiful ponderosa pine forest (largest in the world) sitting at 8,000 feet above sea level, to the north and every place in between, Gila County has it all.

Popular theory says that the word Gila was derived from a Spanish contraction of Hah-quah-sa-eel, a Yuma word meaning "running water which is salty".

Gila County has a very diverse and somewhat wild makeup. The northern part of the county rises almost 8,000 feet above sea level and includes the Towns of Payson, Star Valley, Christopher Creek, Strawberry and Pine. Here you will find a tradition rich in the old west, including what some think is the birth place of the modern-day rodeo and the last strong hold of the Apache Indians in what was around the early 1800’s called the Arizona Territory. It then stretches east to include the remote community of Young and some of the most wild, untamed territory in the western United States.

To the south the history and heritage of American work ethic and toughness is on display where mining for copper and other precious minerals can be found in the cities of Globe and Miami. To the east the rich Native American culture brings to light the traditions and lifestyles of the San Carlos and Apache Indian Reservations.