This Little-Known Waterfront Village Is One of the Most Charming in Arizona

Unless you're from Arizona, you've likely never heard of Greer. Tucked away in the White Mountains of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, Greer is a little-known waterfront town in Arizona known for its alpine lakes, scenery, and outdoor recreation. Life for this community marches to a slower beat than more populous parts of the state, and is seemingly centered around the proverbial "lake life." Life is quiet and simple here, the type of place that beckons those seeking a destination to travel a bit slowly.

Why This Little-Known Waterfront Town in Arizona Is So Charming

Greer may not draw as many tourists as the lakefront towns of Lake Havasu City (home to Lake Havasu) or Page (home to Lake Powell), but its quiet, understated beauty makes it a desirable destination for those seeking quiet and peace as they recreate in the great outdoors. Located at 8,356 feet in the White Mountains, Greer is the highest-elevation town in Arizona, offering a cool escape from the summer heat for those living in Phoenix and other lower-elevation cities. In fact, the average summer temperature highs are in the mid-70s!

A charming mountain destination, Greer is also a waterfront town that's home to several alpine lakes and streams, and access to the Little Colorado River. You'll also find a few locally owned shops and restaurants, several resorts and lodges, and a strong sense of community among the friendly locals.

What To See and Do in Greer

As for things to do in Greer, Arizona, there are an abundance of ways to enjoy the lakes, river, and village. For an uncrowded fishing experience, head to the Greer Lakes, a trio of reservoirs — Bunch Reservoir, Tunnel Reservoir, and River Reservoir — known for trout fishing. Additionally, there are numerous streams and the Little Colorado River for fishing and swimming. Hiking and mountain biking trails are aplenty in this area as well, and the alpine scenery is incredibly picturesque.

One of the best ways to get to know the town and enjoy the scenery is to take a walk along the mile-long Greer Village Walkway. Running parallel to Main Street into the heart of town. It's an easy stroll and accessible to those with strollers, wheelchairs, or mobility equipment as well.

During the winter, Sunrise Park Resort, which spans three mountains, is a popular spot for skiers and snowboarders. Not only are there ski runs, but snow tubing and ski bikes as well. If you miss the winter season here, the summer is just as fun. Families can enjoy the gorgeous summer weather while taking a scenic chairlift ride, a thrilling alpine coaster ride, or testing their skills with 3-D archery. Visit the Sunrise Park Resort website for more.

Accommodations in Greer:

Greer is home to several lodges and vacation rentals. Here are our top picks:

• Greer Point Trails End Cabins: Located along Main Street, each cabin includes WiFi, a patio, a kitchen, and a fireplace.
• Molly Butler Lodge: Established in 1910, this is the oldest continuously operating lodge in Arizona, and has an on-site restaurant and bar.
• Edelweiss Resort & Restaurant: With its German Alps theme, stay in a cabin, room, or suite, and dine at the on-site restaurant featuring a menu of Bavarian favorites.
• Riverfront Retreat Log Cabin: Located steps away from the Little Colorado River, this Lost Resorts cabin can accommodate six guests.
• Scout's House Cabin: Set on two acres, guests can enjoy a secluded escape for up to 10 guests.

Best Time to Visit Greer

Greer's high elevation in the mountains, along with its lakes and streams, provides much-needed relief to those seeking an escape from the unrelenting summer heat in cities like Phoenix (four hours away), Yuma (6.5 hours away), and Tucson (4.5 hours away). Visiting in late spring after the snow melts and the wildflowers start to bloom is another ideal time to visit Greer, especially for hiking and fishing. Temperatures are also cool, rarely above 60 degrees. During the fall, you can expect the foliage to turn vibrant yellows, reds, and oranges with temperatures around 70 degrees. If you don't mind cold, snowy weather, visit Greer between mid-November and late March, rent a cabin, and surround yourself with the coziness and quiet of the winter season.

Looking for other hidden waterfront destinations in Arizona? Spend time on the sand at one of these hidden Arizona beaches. You can also discover 10 small towns in Arizona to visit for picturesque views and Main Street charm.