Drives Arizona The Mogollon Rim and White Mountains
Sunrise and Big Lake: AZ-273 and 261
White Mountains, Arizona · AZ-260 junction → Eagar
The drive
This drive crosses the high White Mountains on two state routes. AZ 273 heads south from the AZ 260 junction past the turnoff to Sunrise Park Resort, across high meadows and spruce forest near 9,000 feet, toward Big Lake. At the AZ 261 junction the route turns north, passing Crescent Lake and descending to Round Valley and the town of Eagar.
Big Lake itself is a spur south of the junction, left off so the drive doesn't double back. The curves are mostly gentle, with one twisty stretch on the way down toward Eagar. The high country is cool even in summer, and aspens turn in fall.
Along the way
- AZ-260 junction
- Sunrise Park Resort turnoff
- Crescent Lake
- Eagar (AZ-260)
Good to know
- AZ 273 (Sunrise Park to Big Lake) and AZ 261 (Eagar to Big Lake) are closed in winter, starting December 31, and reopen in spring.
- The road runs near 9,000 feet, so mornings are cold and snow can arrive early or late.
- There are few services on the high part of the route.
AZ-273 and AZ-261 close from December 31 to about mid-April. Roads close for snow, fire, storms and repairs: before you set off, check Arizona 511 (ADOT).
Questions about this drive
Is AZ 273 and 261 open in winter?
No. ADOT closes AZ 273 from Sunrise Park to Big Lake and AZ 261 from Eagar to Big Lake from December 31 until spring, usually around mid-April.
How long does the Sunrise and Big Lake drive take?
The route from the AZ 260 junction to Eagar is 34.1 miles and takes about 50 minutes.
Does this drive go to Big Lake?
No. Big Lake is a short spur south of the AZ 261 junction, and this route turns north there toward Eagar.
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More drives near here
Distance, time, elevation, curves and intensity are from Carve's route. Checked 2026-10-28.