Beautiful Drives / Big Lake To Alpine

• What: Big Lake To Alpine
• Distance: 21 miles
• Travel Time: 36 minutes
• Vehicle Required: Any
• Difficulty: Easy
• Kids: Yes

A newly paved, wonderfully twisty 25-mile mountain road that snakes east from Big Lake down into the alpine valley town of Alpine, offering a stark and beautiful look at forest resilience.

Flora and Fauna

The route showcases the unique ecological rebirth of a forest following the historic 2011 Wallow Fire. Young, bright green aspen groves and lush undergrowth contrast starkly against dramatic, scorched pine silhouettes. The forest streams along the road draw in diverse birdlife—including red-breasted nuthatches and golden-crowned kinglets—as well as mule deer and the occasional Mexican gray wolf.

Notable Sites and Landmarks

Three Forks: A unique riparian area where multiple mountain streams converge, creating a vital, protected habitat for native wildlife.

The Escudilla Mountain Views: As you descend eastward, the route offers breathtaking panoramas of Arizona’s third-highest peak.

Alpine Village: The drive finishes directly north of this cozy mountain town, perfectly positioning travelers for a warm meal at the historic Bear Wallow Café.