There are lots of charming small towns in Arizona worth visiting, but few compare to the quaint community of Eagar. Nestled in the foothills of the White Mountains, this little town is surrounded by natural beauty and offers so much to see and do. Experience a safari park, tour ancient ruins, eat delicious food, and more when you plan a trip to the criminally underrated town of Eagar.
The motto in Eagar is "Where Roads Hit the Trail," and we couldn't imagine a more fitting slogan. Nestled in the foothills of the majestic White Mountains, this tiny town of just under 5,000 is a nature lover's dream.
One of the most popular activities in town is the R Lazy J Wildlife Ranch, which offers up-close encounters with exotic animals.
Focused on wildlife conservation, the 65-acre ranch provides a home for more than 50 species of birds, mammals, and reptiles from all over the world.
Enjoy a two-hour guided tour of the ranch, which includes face-to-face experiences such as feeding up to 100 adorable parakeets (for an extra fee). You can also meet alligators, lemurs, and a sloth, or take a UTV tour that will make you feel like you're on safari in Africa.
In the nearby town of Springerville, which is only about three minutes from Eagar, you'll find Casa Malpais Archaeological Park & Museum.
This fascinating archaeological site dates to circa 1260 AD and features a Great Kiva, solar calendar, ancient staircase, and other incredible structures and artifacts.
You'll also see amazingly well-preserved rock art, including this image marking the summer solstice. Guided tours, which begin at the on-site museum, are required, and the tour lasts about two hours and involves a 3/4-mile hike.
After a full day of exploring the great outdoors, you're bound to be hungry. Luckily, Eagar has several delicious restaurants to choose from, including Trailriders Family Restaurant and Bar.
This rustic, low-key eatery is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and dishes out hearty American fare that's sure to leave you feeling replenished.
You'll see a bit of everything on the menu, from pancakes and omelets to burgers, chicken-fried steak, and south-of-the-border favorites like tacos and chimichangas. It's impossible to have a bad meal here!
Have you ever visited Eagar? If so, we'd love to hear all about your experience in the comments! Don't forget to check out our previous article for a nearby cabin getaway that makes the perfect basecamp for your White Mountains adventures.
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