Mogollon Rim Visitor Center Interpretive Site

This center, run by the Forest Service, is the best place get a spectacular view of the Mogollon Rim and to learn about the natural history of the area. Getting to this center is easy: from downtown Payson, drive east on AZ 260 (but watch out for the sneaky speed cameras as you leave the main part of town) and enjoy the scenic route while you gradually ascend the face of the Rim. Shortly after you get to the top of the escarpment and get near the Forest Road 300 turnoff from AZ 260, look for the sign to the center on the south side of the road. The entrance leads to the parking lot. The visitor center itself is small but contains displays explaining the vegetation and fauna of the area. At the back of the center is a viewing platform where you can enjoy one of the best views of the Mogollon Rim as well as the extensive pine forests of the Rim Country area. There is also a gift shop in the center for those who want souvenirs. Lakes and recreational areas are found in the surrounding areas, and the center itself provides an easy way to find the 59-​mile long General Crook Trail, which passes just east of the Center.