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Mogollon Rim Visitor Center: Gateway to Arizona's Highlands

Discover Arizona's Mogollon Rim: Breathtaking views, hiking trails, and a cool escape await at this essential visitor center.

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The Mogollon Rim Visitor Center is your starting point for exploring the Mogollon Rim, a dramatic escarpment offering stunning views, diverse hiking trails, and a cool escape from the desert heat. Knowledgeable staff and informative exhibits enhance the experience of this natural wonderland.

A brief summary to Mogollon Rim Visitor Center

Local tips

  • Check the visitor center's hours of operation before you go, as they vary seasonally.
  • Ask the visitor center staff for their favorite hiking trail recommendations.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning views from the Mogollon Rim.
  • Be prepared for cooler temperatures at the Rim, especially during the fall and winter months.
  • Consider purchasing a National Forest pass if you plan to park and explore the surrounding area.
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Getting There

  • Car

    To reach the Mogollon Rim Visitor Center by car from Payson, start by heading east on AZ-260 E. Continue for approximately 32 miles. Turn left onto Rim Road (Forest Road 300), which is directly across from the Rim Visitor Information Station. Follow Rim Road for 5 miles until you see the Visitor Center on your right. Parking is available at the Visitor Center. Keep in mind that there may be a fee or required pass for parking, so have a National Forest pass ready if you plan to park. There are no tolls on this route.

  • Public Transport

    Public transportation options to the Mogollon Rim Visitor Center are limited. First, take a shuttle or bus to Payson Transit Center. From there, arrange for a taxi, rideshare service, or rental car, as public transportation does not directly reach the Visitor Center. A taxi or rideshare from Payson to the Visitor Center will cost approximately $20-$50. Follow the driving directions from Payson to the Visitor Center. It is advisable to call ahead to ensure availability of rideshare services in the area.

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Discover more about Mogollon Rim Visitor Center

Perched on the edge of the Mogollon Rim, the Mogollon Rim Visitor Center welcomes travelers to a land of dramatic vistas and outdoor adventure. This charming log cabin provides a gateway to the Mogollon Rim, a rugged escarpment that marks the southern edge of the Colorado Plateau. Here, the landscape plunges as much as 2,000 feet, offering far-reaching views of forested mountains, lakes, and valleys. Inside, friendly staff are ready to answer questions and provide helpful tips for exploring the area. Discover exhibits detailing the natural history of the Mogollon Rim, showcasing its diverse flora, fauna, and geology. You can also find informative literature, maps, and souvenirs to enhance your visit. The Arizona Natural History Association also offers many educational items for sale. Outside, a world of outdoor recreation awaits. Hiking trails cater to all skill levels, from leisurely strolls to challenging treks. Birdwatching, fishing, and picnicking are also popular activities. The Rim Road (Forest Road 300) offers a scenic drive along the edge of the escarpment, with numerous vista points and access to lakes like Woods Canyon Lake and Bear Canyon Lake. The Mogollon Rim Visitor Center is an essential stop for anyone seeking to experience the beauty and adventure of Arizona's highlands. The visitor center is open primarily during the summer season, specifically Thursday through Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

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