Strawberry, Arizona: Things To Do & Mogollon Rim Guide

Originally written by Tony Subia

Reviewed and updated by AZ Leisure Staff Writers on September 3, 2026.

Strawberry, Arizona is a small mountain community near the Mogollon Rim known for cool summer weather, pine forests and easy access to outdoor recreation. At roughly 6,000 feet elevation, Strawberry offers hiking, scenic drives, wildlife viewing, camping and convenient access to nearby creeks and Arizona fishing lakes. Located just north of Pine and about 17 miles from Payson, Strawberry is a popular weekend getaway from the Phoenix area and a convenient base for exploring Rim Country, Tonto National Forest and nearby mountain attractions.

• Why Visit Strawberry
• Things To Do
• Strawberry History
• Outdoor Recreation
• Weather & Best Time To Visit
• Things To Do Nearby
• Directions
• Area Map
• FAQ

Why Visit Strawberry, Arizona

Visitors are drawn to Strawberry for its peaceful setting, cooler weather, and authentic small-town mountain atmosphere that feels worlds away from the busy cities of central Arizona. Whether relaxing in a cabin among the pines, exploring nearby hiking trails, or enjoying scenic overlooks along the Mogollon Rim, the area offers a slower pace and a strong connection to nature. The combination of easy accessibility from Phoenix, abundant outdoor activities, and four-season appeal—including mild summers and occasional winter snowfall—makes Strawberry an ideal destination for weekend getaways, family vacations, and outdoor adventures throughout the year.

Things To Do In Strawberry Arizona

• Hike trails around the Mogollon Rim
• Fish nearby creeks and mountain lakes
• Take scenic drives through Rim Country
• Visit the historic Strawberry Schoolhouse
• Camp or stay in a mountain cabin
• Watch wildlife and photograph mountain scenery
• Take day trips to Pine, Payson and Tonto Natural Bridge

A Brief History Of Strawberry Arizona

The Strawberry area has a long human history that predates modern settlement, including connections with Indigenous peoples of central Arizona. Euro-American settlement expanded in Rim Country during the nineteenth century, and settlers established a small community here during the 1870s. Strawberry developed a rustic mountain character that remains part of its appeal today, with historic structures and forest landscapes preserving reminders of the community's early years.

The Historic Strawberry Schoolhouse

The historic Strawberry Schoolhouse is one of the community's best-known landmarks and a reminder of Strawberry's pioneer-era past. Built in 1885, the small log schoolhouse has become a popular historic stop for visitors exploring Strawberry and the surrounding Rim Country.

Outdoor Recreation Around Strawberry & The Mogollon Rim

Forests, mountain trails, scenic overlooks and nearby lakes make Strawberry an excellent base for outdoor recreation in Rim Country. Anglers can explore mountain lakes including Chevelon Canyon Lake, Woods Canyon Lake, Bear Canyon Lake and Black Canyon Lake. Hiking, camping, wildlife viewing, scenic driving and horseback riding provide additional ways to explore the forests and rugged landscapes around the Mogollon Rim.

Hiking and horseback riding trails provide access to forests, canyons and viewpoints throughout the Mogollon Rim area. Scenic drives along Rim Road and historic routes through the forest offer additional opportunities to enjoy overlooks where the terrain drops dramatically toward lower elevations. Visitors can also make the short trip south to Tonto Natural Bridge State Park, one of the most distinctive natural attractions near Strawberry and Payson.

Strawberry appeals to visitors looking for a quieter mountain setting, while nearby Pine and Payson provide additional restaurants, shopping and visitor services. Lodging throughout Rim Country includes motels, rental cabins, vacation rentals, RV parks and campgrounds.

Strawberry Arizona Weather & Best Time To Visit

Strawberry's higher elevation generally brings cooler conditions than the Phoenix metropolitan area, making summer especially popular for mountain getaways. Visitors should still prepare for changing mountain weather, seasonal thunderstorms and winter snow or icy road conditions.

• Spring: Spring brings mild temperatures, wildflowers, flowing creeks and comfortable conditions for hiking, sightseeing and exploring nearby forest roads.
• Summer: Summer is one of the most popular times to visit Strawberry because the higher elevation offers cooler weather than Phoenix, Scottsdale and the desert valleys.
• Fall: Fall is a beautiful season in Strawberry, with cooler air, changing leaves, fewer crowds and excellent conditions for scenic drives along the Mogollon Rim.
• Winter: Winter can bring occasional snow and quiet mountain scenery. Road conditions can vary, so check weather before traveling through higher elevations.

Best Things To Do Near Strawberry Arizona

Strawberry is a convenient base for exploring Rim Country, with nearby hiking trails, lakes, historic sites, scenic drives and small mountain communities all within a short drive.

• Visit Pine, Arizona: Explore shops, restaurants, cabins and scenic mountain neighborhoods just a few miles south of Strawberry.
• See Tonto Natural Bridge: Visit one of Arizona’s most unique natural landmarks, located about 10 miles south of Strawberry.
• Drive the Mogollon Rim: Enjoy forest roads, overlooks, picnic areas and dramatic views from the edge of the Rim.
• Fish nearby lakes: Woods Canyon Lake, Bear Canyon Lake, Black Canyon Lake and Chevelon Canyon Lake offer fishing and cool-weather recreation.
• Explore Payson: Head south to Payson for restaurants, lodging, shopping, events and additional Rim Country attractions.

Directions To Strawberry Arizona

Strawberry is located in north-central Arizona along State Route 87, about 17 miles north of Payson and only a few miles north of Pine. The best route depends on your starting point and current road conditions.

From Scottsdale and the East Phoenix Area. Take State Route 87, also known as the Beeline Highway, northeast through Payson. Continue north on State Route 87 through Pine to Strawberry.

From North and West Phoenix. One option is to travel north on Interstate 17 to State Route 260 at Camp Verde, then follow State Route 260 east toward Payson. At State Route 87, travel north through Pine to Strawberry. Depending on your starting point, State Route 87 through Payson may provide the more direct route.

Strawberry, Pine & Payson Area Map

Strawberry Arizona FAQ

Where is Strawberry Arizona?

Strawberry is located in north-central Arizona near the Mogollon Rim, about 17 miles north of Payson and only a few miles north of Pine.

What is Strawberry Arizona known for?

Strawberry is known for its cool mountain setting, pine forests, historic Strawberry Schoolhouse, hiking, cabins, nearby fishing lakes and access to outdoor recreation around the Mogollon Rim.

What are the best things to do in Strawberry Arizona?

Popular activities include hiking, scenic drives, wildlife viewing, visiting the historic Strawberry Schoolhouse, camping, staying in mountain cabins and exploring nearby lakes and Mogollon Rim attractions.

Is Strawberry Arizona a good summer getaway?

Yes. Strawberry's higher elevation generally provides cooler summer conditions than Phoenix and other lower-elevation desert communities, making it a popular warm-weather getaway.

Does it snow in Strawberry Arizona?

Yes. Strawberry can receive snow during winter storms, and freezing temperatures can create icy road conditions. Travelers should check current weather and road conditions before winter trips.

What lakes are near Strawberry Arizona?

Popular mountain lakes in the broader Rim Country include Woods Canyon Lake, Bear Canyon Lake, Black Canyon Lake and Chevelon Canyon Lake, providing opportunities for fishing and outdoor recreation.

How far is Strawberry from Payson Arizona?

Strawberry is about 17 miles north of Payson along State Route 87, with the community of Pine located between them.

What attractions are near Strawberry Arizona?

Nearby attractions include Pine, Tonto Natural Bridge State Park, the Mogollon Rim, Rim Country hiking trails, mountain lakes and the shops, restaurants and visitor services in Payson.

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