Show Low, AZ
- About the City
- Climate and Weather
- Geography
- Landmarks and Attractions
- Transportation
- Museums
- Sport and Outdoor Recreation
- Universities and Educational Institutions
- Healthcare and Medical Institutions
- Local Cuisine
Show Low is a city in the White Mountains of Arizona, famously named by the turn of a card in a poker game. At over 6,300 feet elevation, it's a popular four-season destination for outdoor recreation, from fishing and hiking to skiing, with a charming historic downtown.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Official Name: Show Low, Arizona.
- Administrative Role: Show Low is a city and one of the two county seats of Navajo County (with Holbrook), situated in the east-central part of the state .
- Region: The city is located in the state of Arizona, within the renowned White Mountains region. This area is famous for being the largest contiguous ponderosa pine forest in the world, offering a cool, alpine escape from the state's desert landscapes .
Date of Foundation and Age
- Year Founded: Show Low was established in 1870 .
- City's Age: The city is 156 years old (as of 2026).
- Founding Legend: The city's unique name comes from a legendary poker game between the original homesteaders, Corydon E. Cooley and Marion Clark. To settle who would keep their 100,000-acre ranch, they played a game of Seven Up. When the game seemed endless, Clark said, "If you can show low, you win." Cooley then turned up the deuce of clubs (the lowest card) and famously replied, "Show low it is," winning the ranch and giving the future city its name .
Geographic Location and Coordinates
- Geographic Coordinates: 34°14′37″N 110°02′53″W (34.2436, -110.0481) .
- Positioning: Show Low is situated on the Mogollon Rim (escarpment) in east-central Arizona, nestled within the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests .
- Elevation: The city center sits at a high altitude of 6,345 feet (1,934 meters) above sea level .
- Geographic Type: It is a mountain forest city, serving as the primary gateway and commercial hub for the White Mountains recreation area.
City Type and Economic Specialization
Show Low is primarily a tourist and recreation center and a regional commercial hub. Its economy is driven by tourism related to the surrounding national forests, lakes, and winter sports. It serves as a basecamp for visitors exploring the White Mountains, offering lodging, dining, and retail services. Key sectors include hospitality, outdoor recreation, and retail trade.
Population and Demographics
- Population: According to the 2010 census, the population was 10,660, and it was estimated to be 11,442 in 2019 . It is a small city by population classification.
- Characteristics: Show Low is one of the main population centers in the White Mountains and has experienced significant growth as a destination for retirees and those seeking a second home in a cooler, mountain environment.
City's "Business Card" (Brief)
Show Low is the charming mountain gateway to Arizona's White Mountains, a city whose very name tells a tale of a high-stakes poker game. Surrounded by the world's largest ponderosa pine forest, visitors come to escape the heat, hike pristine trails, fish in alpine lakes, and experience four distinct seasons, all while exploring a historic Route 66-era town with a unique Western spirit.
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
Show Low has a Mediterranean climate (Köppen Csa) , which is highly unusual for Arizona. It is characterized by warm, dry summers and cool, moderately snowy winters. Due to its high elevation, it is much cooler than the desert areas of the state. Unlike a typical Mediterranean climate, the majority of rainfall occurs during the summer due to the North American Monsoon .
Average Monthly Temperatures
- Warmest Month: July, with an average daily high of 86°F (30°C) and an average low of 59°F (15°C) .
- Coolest Month: December and January, with average daily highs around 46-47°F (8°C) and average lows dropping to 23°F (-5°C) .
- Extreme Temperatures: The record high is 100°F (38°C), and the record low is -25°F (-32°C), set in January 1971 .
Precipitation and Humidity
- Average Annual Rainfall: Show Low receives about 15.7 to 18.1 inches (399-460 mm) of precipitation per year .
- Wettest Month: August, with an average of 2.97 to 3.3 inches (75-84 mm) of rain, largely due to monsoon storms .
- Driest Month: June, with an average of only 0.42 to 0.46 inches (11-12 mm) of rain .
- Snowfall: The city averages about 26.5 inches (67 cm) of snow per year, with most falling from December through March .
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
- Summer (June - August): Warm and generally pleasant, with average highs in the low 80s°F. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in July and August. This is the best time for hiking, fishing, and all outdoor water activities .
- Fall (September - October): Mild days and cool nights. This is a spectacular time to visit for the fall foliage, especially in late September and October when the aspen trees turn gold .
- Winter (November - March): Cold with regular snowfall. Highs are in the 40s°F, and lows often dip below freezing. This is the season for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding at the nearby Sunrise Park Resort .
- Spring (March - May): Gradually warming weather, but can be unpredictable with a "mud season" in late March and early April. A good time for hiking as the snow melts and wildflowers begin to bloom .
Specific Weather Phenomena
- Monsoon Storms: From early July through mid-September, the region experiences the North American Monsoon, bringing frequent, often dramatic, afternoon thunderstorms with lightning, heavy rain, and gusty winds .
- Large Temperature Swings: Due to the high desert/mountain environment, summer days can be warm, but temperatures can drop by as much as 30°F (17°C) after sunset .
Geography
Mountains and Mountain Ranges
- The Mogollon Rim: Pronounced "muggy-own," this is a major geological escarpment that defines the edge of the Colorado Plateau. Show Low sits on this rim, which offers dramatic panoramic views and is a defining feature of the region's geography .
- White Mountains: The city is the main gateway to this expansive mountain range, which features peaks over 11,000 feet, including Mount Baldy, a sacred peak to the White Mountain Apache Tribe .
Water Bodies (Rivers, Lakes, Waterfalls)
- Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area: Located just minutes from downtown Show Low, this 150-acre lake is a premier destination for fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and camping. It's known for its excellent trout fishing and scenic beauty .
- Show Low Lake: Another popular lake within the city limits, offering fishing, picnicking, and non-motorized boating, managed by the Arizona Game and Fish Department .
- Nearby Lakes: The region is dotted with countless other alpine lakes within a short drive, such as Big Lake, Woods Canyon Lake, and Hawley Lake, all famous for trout fishing .
National and State Parks
- Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests: Show Low is surrounded by this vast national forest, which encompasses over 2 million acres. It offers endless opportunities for hiking, camping, horseback riding, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing in the largest contiguous ponderosa pine forest in North America .
- Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area: While a municipal facility, it is a key outdoor destination managed for recreation, offering camping, hiking, and water sports .
- Petrified Forest National Park: Located about 60 miles north of Show Low, this national park is famous for its large deposits of petrified wood and the colorful badlands of the Painted Desert .
Landmarks and Attractions
The City's Most Famous Landmark: Deuce of Clubs
- Full Name: Deuce of Clubs (the city's main thoroughfare).
- Description: This is not a single monument but the main street of Show Low, named in direct tribute to the city's founding poker legend. It serves as a living monument to the story of Corydon Cooley drawing the winning card. Traveling along this road connects visitors to the city's historic downtown and its unique origin story .
Historical Museum
- Full Name: Show Low Historical Society Museum.
- Location: In a historic building in downtown Show Low.
- What It Is: This small but engaging museum showcases the history of the area, from its Native American roots and pioneer settlement to the famous poker game and the development of the city. It features exhibits on local culture, artifacts, and the story of the Rodeo-Chediski Fire .
White Mountain Nature Center
- Full Name: White Mountain Nature Center.
- Location: Pinetop-Lakeside, just a short drive from Show Low.
- What It Is: An educational facility with wildlife exhibits, including raptor shows, and trails that encourage the exploration of local flora and fauna. It's an excellent family-friendly attraction for learning about the region's ecosystem .
Nearby: Sunrise Park Resort
- Full Name: Sunrise Park Resort.
- Location: Approximately 30 minutes from Show Low.
- What It Is: A family-friendly resort located on the Fort Apache Indian Reservation. In winter, it's the premier ski destination in Arizona, offering downhill skiing, snowboarding, and tubing. In the summer, it transforms into a hub for mountain biking and hiking, with a scenic chairlift offering panoramic views .
Historic Sites Nearby
- Casa Malpais Archaeological Park: Located in nearby Springerville, this is a significant ancient pueblo ruin with guided tours that offer insight into the Mogollon culture .
- Holbrook and the Painted Desert: About 30 minutes away, the historic town of Holbrook on Route 66 offers vintage diners and roadside attractions, and serves as a gateway to the Painted Desert .
Transportation
Main Airports
- Show Low Regional Airport (SOW): This is the city's own airport, located just 2-3 miles from the city center. It offers limited commercial service via Boutique Air or Southern Airways Express with connecting flights primarily from Phoenix (PHX) . This is the fastest way to fly directly into the White Mountains.
- Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX): The primary major international gateway, located approximately a 3.5-hour drive (210 miles) from Show Low via U.S. Route 60 and AZ-260 .
- Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG): A smaller commercial airport about a 2.2-hour drive (182 km) away, served by American Airlines .
- Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ): A major airport in New Mexico, approximately a 4-hour drive from Show Low .
Main Highways
Driving is the most common and practical way to reach and explore Show Low and the surrounding White Mountains .
- U.S. Route 60: The main highway connecting Show Low to the Phoenix area via the dramatic Salt River Canyon.
- State Route 260: The key east-west artery that connects Show Low to Payson, Pinetop-Lakeside, and other White Mountain communities.
- State Route 77: Connects Show Low to Holbrook and Interstate 40 to the north.
Public Transport and Getting Around
- Car Rental: Renting a car is highly recommended and considered essential for getting around, as public transportation is very limited and attractions are spread out across the national forest . Rental car agencies are available in Show Low and at the major airports .
- Taxi/Ride-sharing: Limited services are available within the city, but they are not practical for exploring the region.
- Public Buses: Intercity bus services exist but are very time-consuming and require complex logistics, making them impractical for most tourists .
Major Highways (Driving Tips)
- Salt River Canyon Route (US-60): A spectacular and scenic drive from Phoenix, but it involves navigating a steep and winding canyon, similar in experience to a mini Grand Canyon.
- Mogollon Rim Route (AZ-260): A scenic drive that runs along the rim, offering beautiful forest views.
- Winter Travel: Due to the high elevation and significant snowfall, a 4WD vehicle or snow chains may be necessary during the winter months . It's crucial to check road conditions before traveling in winter.
Museums
Show Low Historical Society Museum
To understand the unique character of Show Low, a visit to the Show Low Historical Society Museum is essential . The museum's mission is to collect, preserve, and exhibit historically significant objects pertinent to the White Mountains of Arizona . Its collection includes a fascinating array of items donated by locals, such as quilts, military memorabilia, blacksmithing tools, and barbershop equipment, offering a glimpse into the area's pioneer past . The museum also holds artifacts related to the region's Native American heritage .
Sport and Outdoor Recreation
Outdoor Recreation and Local Sports
Show Low is a hub for outdoor activities, leveraging its stunning location in Arizona's high country against the Mogollon Rim . The area is a paradise for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and fishing . A prime spot for wildlife viewing and water activities is Fool Hollow Lake, one of three lakes in town, which is home to herons, bobcats, beavers, and raptors . For off-road enthusiasts, the 50-mile Maverick Motorized Trail offers extensive opportunities .
Disc Golf at Show Low
Disc golf is a popular pastime in the community. The city hosts the Show Low 2025 league on the UDisc app, which runs annually from April to October, indicating a dedicated local scene with players competing in various amateur and professional divisions .
High School Athletics
High school sports are a point of community pride. Show Low High School has an active track and field program, and it hosts its own annual event, the Show Low Cougar Invitational, drawing teams from the region . The school's teams compete in the Arizona Interscholastic Association (AIA) state championships .
Universities and Educational Institutions
Arizona State University - Northeastern Arizona
Higher education is accessible in Show Low through Arizona State University - Northeastern Arizona . Located at 1001 West Deuce of Clubs, this campus is a public, 4-year institution offering bachelor's degrees, providing local students with the opportunity to earn a degree from a major university without leaving the White Mountains .
Healthcare and Medical Institutions
Summit Healthcare Regional Medical Center
The primary medical facility in Show Low is Summit Healthcare Regional Medical Center, located at 2200 E Show Low Lake Rd . This hospital provides a range of services to the community and has publicly reported data on patient safety, including metrics for infections, patient falls, and surgical complications .
Banner Same-Day Care Clinic
For urgent but non-life-threatening medical needs, residents and visitors can turn to the Banner Same-Day Care clinic . Formerly a Banner Urgent Care, this facility offers convenient, walk-in care for illnesses like fevers and injuries such as ankle sprains . The clinic is part of the larger Banner Health network, one of the largest nonprofit health care systems in the country, and is open Monday through Saturday .
Local Cuisine
The House Restaurant
The most talked-about dining destination in Show Low is The House, an American cuisine restaurant that has become the town's premier community gathering place since 2015 . Located at 1191 E Hall St, The House offers a unique experience with its extensive outdoor seating, fire pits, live country music, and yard games, creating a welcoming, ranch-style atmosphere .
Signature Creations at The House
The House is renowned for its creative and hearty burgers. Favorites among locals and visitors include:
- The Donut Burger: A standout item that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors .
- PB & J Burger: An innovative creation that has become a local favorite, combining unexpected flavors in a delightful way .
- Show Low Burger: Named after the town itself, this burger represents the authentic flavors of Arizona mountain country dining, made with fresh, local ingredients .
- House Burger: The crown jewel of the menu, featuring fresh ingredients and creative combinations .
Beyond Burgers
The menu at The House extends well beyond burgers. Popular starters include the Sweet Corn Fritters, golden-brown and crispy, perfect for sharing . Other notable dishes are the Bonfire Shrimp, seasoned and lightly breaded, and the Pulled Pork Sandwich served on fresh baguettes from local bakeries .
The Outdoor Experience
The outdoor setting is a major part of The House's appeal. Guests can dine in Adirondack chairs gathered around fire pits under Arizona's starry skies . The restaurant is also pet-friendly, earning a 5.0 out of 5 bones rating from canine critics .
Bison Bar Grill
Another popular spot for American traditional fare is the Bison Bar Grill . As the name suggests, it is known for its burgers, with the Bison Burger receiving praise for being fresh and flavorful . The menu also includes items like hot dogs and salads, catering to a variety of tastes .
Charlie Clark's Show Low Days Festival
Summertime in Show Low brings the annual Show Low Days festival in June . This family-friendly event transforms the town with a "Derby Down the Deuce," a large arts and crafts festival, and unique entertainment like wiener dog races and an itty bitty Olympics . Local food vendors and live entertainment throughout the day and evening make it a highlight of the culinary and cultural calendar .