Show Low is the anchor of Arizona's White Mountains, roughly 175 miles northeast of Phoenix by way of Payson and SR-260. It is a half-day drive for most people, and the destination is high enough — about 6,400 feet — that the seasons on the other end rarely match the Valley.
The route
Leave the East Valley on SR-87 north, the Beeline Highway, and run it up through Payson. At Payson the route switches to SR-260 east, climbing through the forest past Christopher Creek, over the rim country and on toward Heber-Overgaard before dropping into Show Low. The second half is the scenic half: ponderosa pine, open range and long sightlines instead of desert.
How long to allow
Plan on three to three and a half hours in good conditions. The variables are the climb out of the Valley, Payson traffic in summer, and weather on SR-260, which sees snow, ice and the occasional winter closure high on the route. Summer monsoon storms arrive fast up here, and rock-blasting or roadwork along SR-260 can add unscheduled delays, so check conditions before a tight connection.
What is nearby
Show Low shares the White Mountains with Lakeside and Pinetop, and Sunrise Park Resort handles winter skiing nearby. The lakes, trails and forest roads around the area are the main draw in summer, and the cooler air lasts all season.
Flying in for a White Mountains trip
There is no practical commercial gateway in the mountains for most travelers, so the trip usually starts at Phoenix Sky Harbor and continues by road. A Show Low shuttle covers the Payson and SR-260 corridor, with the Payson shuttle and Sky Harbor airport shuttle pages covering the earlier and later legs. If your plans run west instead, the Camp Verde shuttle and Sedona shuttle pages cover the Verde Valley.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Show Low from Phoenix?
About 175 miles northeast, using SR-87 through Payson and then SR-260 east.
How long is the drive from Phoenix to Show Low?
Usually three to three and a half hours, longer with Payson traffic, roadwork or winter weather on SR-260.
Does it snow in Show Low?
Yes. Show Low sits at roughly 6,400 feet, and the White Mountains get substantial winter snow, with skiing at Sunrise Park Resort nearby.
