Arizona White Mountains near Show Low and Pinetop-Lakeside

Show Low Arizona Map & Driving Directions

Originally written by Tony Subia

Updated by AZ Leisure Staff Writers on September 2, 2026

This Show Low Arizona map and directions guide helps travelers plan routes to Show Low from Phoenix, Tucson, Flagstaff, Payson and surrounding areas. Located in Arizona's White Mountains, Show Low is reached by several major highways and serves as a convenient base for exploring mountain lakes, recreation areas, nearby communities and scenic drives throughout northeastern Arizona.

Show Low Area Map
Driving Directions
Travel Times
Scenic Stops
Things To Do Near Show Low
Driving & Travel Tips
Show Low Map FAQ

The map below shows Show Low in relation to nearby White Mountains communities and major regional travel routes.

Map of Show Low Arizona and major routes through the White Mountains

Using The Show Low Area Map

Use the map to identify major highways, nearby communities and regional routes before traveling into the White Mountains. It can also help visitors plan trips to nearby lakes, campgrounds, recreation areas and scenic destinations around Show Low and Pinetop-Lakeside.

Rainbow Lake near Show Low and Pinetop-Lakeside in Arizona's White Mountains

Driving Directions To Show Low, Arizona

From Phoenix: AZ-87 north toward Payson, then AZ-260 east to Show Low.
From Tucson: Routes generally connect through the US-60 or AZ-77 corridor toward Show Low.
From Flagstaff: I-40 east toward Holbrook, then AZ-77 south to Show Low.

Detailed Routes To Show Low

From Phoenix: Take AZ-87 north toward Payson, then continue east on AZ-260 through the Mogollon Rim country toward Show Low. This is one of the most common routes from the Phoenix area and offers scenic mountain views along the way.

From Tucson: Several routes connect Tucson with Show Low, including routes through Globe and the Salt River Canyon area. Travel time and the best route can vary with road conditions, weather and the traveler's starting point, so check current navigation before leaving.

From Flagstaff: Take I-40 east toward Holbrook, then follow AZ-77 south through Snowflake and Taylor toward Show Low. This route provides access from northern Arizona and Interstate 40.

Approximate Travel Times To Show Low

From Phoenix: About 3 to 3.5 hours, depending on traffic, weather, and starting point in the Valley.
From Tucson: About 4 to 5 hours, depending on route selection and road conditions.
From Flagstaff: About 2.5 to 3 hours by way of I-40 and AZ-77.
From Payson: About 1.5 to 2 hours east on AZ-260.
From Holbrook: About 1 to 1.25 hours south on AZ-77.

Scenic Stops On The Way To Show Low

Payson: A popular stop between Phoenix and Show Low with restaurants, fuel, shopping, and access to Rim Country attractions.
Mogollon Rim: A scenic high-country region along the route from Payson to Show Low, known for forest views, lakes, overlooks, and cooler temperatures.
Salt River Canyon: A dramatic canyon drive often used by travelers coming from Tucson, Globe, or the US-60 corridor.
Snowflake and Taylor: Historic White Mountains communities along AZ-77 north of Show Low.

Things To Do Near Show Low

Visit nearby lakes such as Show Low Lake, Fool Hollow Lake, Rainbow Lake and Woodland Lake.
Explore White Mountains communities including Pinetop-Lakeside, Snowflake, Taylor and Springerville.
Enjoy fishing, boating, kayaking, hiking, camping and wildlife viewing throughout the region.
Use Show Low as a base for scenic drives through Arizona's high country.
Visit during summer for cooler mountain conditions or during winter for seasonal snow recreation.

Show Low Driving & Travel Tips

Check current road and weather conditions before traveling through the White Mountains.
Allow additional driving time during winter storms, summer weekends and holiday travel periods.
Keep sufficient fuel when traveling through longer rural stretches of northeastern Arizona.
Expect elevation changes and winding mountain roads on several routes into Show Low.
Use current navigation in addition to static maps when road construction, closures or severe weather may affect your route.
During winter, check for snow, ice and any applicable traction or chain requirements before traveling.

Show Low Arizona Map & Directions FAQ

Where is Show Low, Arizona?

Show Low is located in northeastern Arizona in the White Mountains region, along major routes including AZ-260 and AZ-77.

How far is Show Low from Phoenix?

Show Low is about 175 miles from Phoenix, with a typical drive time of approximately 3 to 3.5 hours depending on traffic, weather and the starting point in the Phoenix area.

What is a common route from Phoenix to Show Low?

A common route is AZ-87 north toward Payson followed by AZ-260 east through the Mogollon Rim area to Show Low.

How long does it take to drive from Tucson to Show Low?

The drive from Tucson generally takes about 4 to 5 hours depending on the selected route, traffic, weather and road conditions.

How long does it take to drive from Flagstaff to Show Low?

The drive from Flagstaff is generally about 2.5 to 3 hours by way of I-40 and AZ-77, depending on traffic and road conditions.

What towns are near Show Low?

Nearby communities include Pinetop-Lakeside, Snowflake, Taylor, Heber-Overgaard and Springerville.

Are roads to Show Low affected by winter weather?

Yes. Snow, ice and winter storms can affect highways throughout the White Mountains. Travelers should check current weather and road conditions before starting a winter trip.

Related Show Low Interest

Show Low Arizona
Average Temps-Weather Show Low
Show Low RV Campgrounds
Show Low Cabin Rentals
Show Low RV Parks

Beautiful White Mountains In Arizona