Most residents can recite the 5 Cs of Arizona that have long fueled the state’s economy: copper, citrus, codgers and cactus candy. Or something like that.
If there was a sixth C, it would be the cabins.
Cabins have dotted the Arizona landscape since frontier days, first as a necessity and now as a welcome luxury. They are the getaways of our dreams and provide a peaceful sanctuary in the forests and meadows of the highlands. The promise of cooler temperatures and quiet days away from the city has desert dwellers flocking to cabins all summer long.
Enjoy an unforgettable getaway at one of these 10 cabins in Sedona, Flagstaff, Greer and Payson, Pinetop, and Mogollon Rim Country.
Sedona: Historic Don Hoel Cabins
For a century, the Don Hoel cabins have been a part of Oak Creek Canyon’s history. The first five cabins were built in the 1920s. Today, 16 unique log cabins sit in the shady woods near the scenic West Fork Trail and just 2 miles north of Slide Rock State Park.
Cabins come in different sizes and include various amenities, such as kitchens, fireplaces, and outdoor grills. There is a café on site and the property offers private access to Oak Creek. Cabins start at $125.
Details: 928-203-7633, donhoelscabins.com.
Greer: Little Colorado Cabins
With Greer Lakes just down the road and the Little Colorado River flowing practically past the door, yes, anglers are likely to enjoy their stay at this collection of cozy cabins. Of course, so will anyone who wants to relax for a few summer days in Greer.
Details: 928-751-8700, littlecoloradocabins.com.
This is a family owned and operated business. All eight Little Colorado cabins are real log cabins inside and out and have full kitchens. Don’t be surprised to find elk and deer grazing outside your window. Cabins start at $119.
Flagstaff: Arizona Mountain Inn and Cabins
Nestled among ponderosa pines, you’ll find the widest variety of cabins in the Flagstaff area. Surrounded by the Coconino National Forest, Arizona Mountain Inn offers a country escape in the shadow of the San Francisco Peaks.
All styles and sizes, from a cozy one-bedroom to a large hogan-style cabin that sleeps 16, are tucked away on 13 secluded acres. Each cabin has a wood stove or fireplace and a fully equipped kitchen or cooking area. There are also three Bed and Breakfast suites at the Tudor-style inn.
Cabins start at $232.
Details: 928-774-8959, arizonamountaininn.com.
Payson: Timberwolf Pines
This private one bedroom cabin is the perfect place for a romantic getaway tucked away in the quiet pine forest 5 miles east of Christopher Creek, 25 miles from Payson.
With trails, lakes, and streams nearby, keep yourself as busy as you want. Or with a fully equipped kitchen, covered porch, and fire pit, you’ll never have to leave the property. There’s also a sleeper sofa, picnic table, grill, and tent area, in case you couldn’t get a babysitter and your romantic getaway turns into a family adventure.
The cost is $145 per night for two people. Discounted rates for three nights or more.
Details: 928-478-4220, Timberwolfpines.com.
Pinetop: Lake of the Forest
Whether you want to fish from your backyard or just sit outside in the morning with a cup of coffee looking out over the calm water, Lake of the Woods makes it possible. There are 26 cabins spread across the resort property, which includes its own private lake stocked with rainbow trout.
Some cabins are located right on the shore and others offer lake views. No fishing license is required and the lake supports a population of largemouth bass and bluegills. Boats can be rented during the summer. They also offer seven condo-style units with up to five bedrooms to accommodate larger groups. Cabins start at $109 Monday through Friday.
Details: 928-368-5353, lakeofthewoodsaz.com.
Greer: Lazy Trout Cabins
Located at an elevation of 8,500 feet with the Little Colorado River winding through the heart of the city, Greer is the ultimate summer escape. The small village is surrounded by national forests filled with hiking trails.
Lazy Trout cabins come in different sizes and all feature full kitchens, satellite TV, and Wi-Fi. From the property it is an easy walk to everything Greer has to offer. Cabins start at $139.
Details: 928-735-7888, lazytrout.com.
Sedona: Briar Patch Inn
If you like to be a little pampered during your cabin adventure, then the Briar Patch Inn is for you. With 19 luxury cabins spread across 9 shaded wooded acres in Oak Creek Canyon, Briar Patch Inn offers an especially tranquil setting.
Spa services, such as massages and facials, take place on a creekside gazebo. A healthy breakfast is served on a beautiful terrace overlooking the running water. A classical duo performs most mornings during the summer.
The same family has operated Briar Patch for more than 40 years. The cabins vary in size, but each resonates with rustic charm and a celebration of Southwestern style. Most have fireplaces and all have private patios, but no television, telephone or Internet. Rates start at $369.
Details: 888-809-3030, briarpatchinn.com.
Pinetop: Whispering Pines Resort
Whispering Pines cabins are spread across 13 acres of pine and oak timber bordering the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. It creates a forest feel, but shops and restaurants are surprisingly close.
Choose from studio cottages, one, two or three bedroom units and even an elegant Victorian style. This is an old property with a lot of charm. The cabins are well maintained, fully furnished, carpeted and supplied with firewood.
There is a small playground for children and hiking trails. With over three dozen cabins, you’ll easily be able to find one that fits your budget and family needs. Cabins start at $140.
Details: 928-367-4386, whisperingpinesaz.com.
Payson: The Mountain Meadows Retreat
A group of cozy cabins sits on 3 acres of forest and meadow. The property has provided some relief to heat-weary desert dwellers for decades. Six one-bedroom cabins and a larger main house feature different amenities, including kitchens, gas fireplaces, and hot tubs.
Each cabin includes tables for indoor and outdoor dining and a porch with a swing. There is a shared area with fire pits, propane and barbecue grills, and outdoor games. The community of Christopher Creek is nearby and is a short drive from Woods Canyon Lake. Cabins start at $165.
Details: 928-554-5512, mountainmeadowscabins.com.
Sedona: Orchard Canyon at Oak Creek
Satisfy all your senses with a stay at Orchard Canyon. Beautiful rustic cabins are hidden amid the lush greenery of Oak Creek Canyon, on the banks of the creek. Guests are serenaded with the music of falling water.
A sumptuous breakfast and dinner are served daily to guests with a seasonal menu using fresh ingredients. (There is an additional charge for food for more than two guests per cabin.)
Shadowed by towering red cliffs, the 10-acre property includes hundreds of fruit trees, an orchard, and a cheerful abundance of flowers blooming in its flower beds. Cabins cost between $400 and $500 per night. They’re currently offering a special summer deal: get 15% off Sunday-Thursday stays from June 3rd to August 29th.
Details: 928-282-3343, enjoyorchardcanyon.com.
More cabins in Arizona
Greer Lodge: Another sweet getaway for fishermen, with all the cabins on or near the water. Guests only have to choose whether they want a cabin on the small trout ponds or on the Little Colorado River. greerlodgeaz.com.
Mormon Lake Lodge: Guests at this favorite spot south of Flagstaff have access to miles of trails, horseback riding, a country store, a mini-museum, a western saloon with live music on summer weekends, and a steakhouse and pizzeria. mormonlakelodge.com.
Find the reporter at www.rogernaylor.com. Or follow him on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RogerNaylorinAZ or Twitter @AZRogerNaylor.
Meet Roger Naylor
You have two chances to meet Roger Naylor, author and longtime Arizona Republic contributor, on Saturday, June 8.
First, he will give a presentation on his book “Arizona Scenic Byways and T-shirts” at 10 a.m. at the downtown Chandler library. This is a great opportunity to plan your summer getaways. The owner of d’Vine Gourmet will also be on hand to talk about local foods and offer delicious samples. The event is free.
Details: 22 Delaware St., Chandler. Free. 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org.
Later on Saturday, Naylor will be at the White Mountain Nature Center in Pinetop-Lakeside at 6 p.m. to give a presentation of his book “Awesome Arizona: 200 Amazing Facts About the Grand Canyon State.”
Details: 425 N. Woodland Road, Pinetop-Lakeside. Free for members; $10 donation requested for non-members. 928-358-3069, www.wmnature.org.
Keynote USA
For the Latest Local News, Follow Keynote USA Local on Twitter.