Mt. Graham & Riggs Lake - Safford Arizona!

Day Free
Campsites - $10

Daylight (24hr camping)

Lake access
closed Nov-Apr (snowed in)

Tuc: 2 Hrs, 15 min
SV: 2 hrs

Pets on leash OK, but you see less wildlife

Riggs Flat Lake

Mt. Graham & Riggs Lake
the Pinaleno Mountains near Safford

More things to do

Recommended by: Michelle Lind

Home
Arizona Main
Sierra Vista
Tucson
Tombstone
Bisbee
Nogales
To Phoenix

Jacob's Review:

There's real bears here! I didn´t see one but we talked to a lady who did! There is real snow here too! You might not think it is going to be cold - but I am tellin ya’ - you should bring a jacket!

Dad's Notes:

An easy drive up the mountain yields beautiful views of the Safford side as you begin to climb into the huge pine tree forest. You will pass many pull offs that are picnic areas, campgrounds or trailheads, you may begin to see snow on the ground as you approach the top!

On the top the view changes dramaticly as you crossover from the Safford side of the Mt to the Aravaipa valley side. Another stop and awe (photo) sight! The last 12 miles to the lake are unpaved, and in the winter months, heavy snow may close the lake road. Drinking water usually available. Near the lake is Columbine Ranger Station with free maps, children ‘hands-on’ displays and trail info. Bring water and warm clothes!

14 camp sites, picnic tables and horse amenities at the lake; many more campsites on the way up to the lake. Soldiers Creek is a favorite! No trailers over 22’ allowed. More camping along the mountain ion the way to the lake, as usual - I recommend week days and off season if possible!

Don’t miss the waterfall where the road crosses Post Creek! As soon as the melt opens you are ready for some pristine mountain trout fishing! - Who woulda thunk in southern AZ

View Sierra Vista Things to do by JacobGuide.com in a larger map

Drive Directions: From Tucson: take I-10 east 88 miles to US 191. Turn left (north) and drive 26 miles to Swift Trail (AZ 366). Turn left and continue 35 beautiful mi up the mountain to the lake. Camping & Hiking stops all along the Mt.
From Sierra Vista: Hiway 90 north out of Sierra Vista 27 miles to I-10 - East on I-10 50 miles to exit 352 (Hiway 191) towards Safford. North 22 miles to AZ 366. Turn left and continue 35 beautiful mi up the mountain to the lake. Camping & Hiking stops all along the Mt.

Jacob Tip: (You can start a photo album of their pictures!) For better pictures get a lot closer than you think you should! Freeze a pouch drink (like Capri-Sun) for your lunch - keeps your lunch cool and is thawed out (but still cold) when it's time for lunch!

More Family Fun!