Strawberry, Arizona is a small rural mountain community in the Rim Country about 20 minutes north of Payson.
It is located a few minutes from the neighboring community of Pine, so the area is often referred to as Strawberry-Pine.
Strawberry got its name from the patches of wild strawberries that once grew here, and the town is just as charming as the name implies.
You’ll find boutique hotels, small-town bakeries and cafes, a lavender farm, antique shops, and miles of trails leading through ponderosa pines and thickets of wild berries.
Strawberry is the perfect weekend getaway any time of year. Keep reading to discover the best places to eat, stay, and play in and around Strawberry, Arizona!
A First Time Guide to Visiting Strawberry, Arizona
Table of Contents
- The best place to stay in Strawberry, Arizona
- The best things to do in Strawberry, Arizona
- Visit the Farmers Market
- Hike a portion of the Arizona Trail
- Take a Scenic Drive to Potato Lake
- Visit a lavender farm
- Go paddle boarding at Blue Ridge Reservoir
- See the oldest standing schoolhouse in Arizona
- Go antique shopping
- Hike along the Horton Creek Trail
- See the largest natural travertine bridge in the world
- Hike to Water Wheel Falls
- Swim at Fossil Springs
- Best places to eat in Strawberry, Arizona
The best place to stay in Strawberry, Arizona
The Strawberry Inn was once a 1970s office building that has been lovingly restored into a modern boutique hotel that is as cute as a button!
After extensive renovations, the Eilers family began welcoming guests in 2016.
The hotel features 8 guest rooms and they have since expanded to include cottages, vintage Airstream trailers, and two guest houses that accommodate families and larger groups.
The rooms are so cozy, inviting, and tastefully decorated.
Thought has been put into every detail from the porch swings, lawn games, a sharing library, and even the cute little coffee mugs.
The only thing that could make this inn even cuter is if they had a coffee shop serving beverages out of a Dutch-inspired windmill. And as a matter of fact, they do.
The windmill sits right in front of the Strawberry Inn and has been an icon in the community since the 70s.
It once housed a small coffee shop that was a favorite stop for locals and road trippers along State Route 87.
Thankfully, it has been restored to its former glory and continues to be a beloved spot for locals and tourists alike.
Windmill Coffee AZ serves freshly roasted coffee, cold brews, lattes, mochas, hot chocolate, freshly squeezed juice, and more.
My personal favorite is their Italian sodas which are made with fruit puree and topped with cream.
On Saturday mornings, they even have a pop-up shop selling homemade poffertjes.
These mini pancakes are piled high with strawberries and cream and pair perfectly with their rich hot chocolate.
The best things to do in Strawberry, Arizona
For such a small town, there is surprisingly so much to do! Here are a few of our recommendations, and you can check the Strawberry Inn blog for more ideas too.
Visit the Farmers Market
The Pine Strawberry Farmers Market is not what you would expect at a typical farmers market.
Instead of rows of vendors in an outdoor lot, you’ll find fresh local produce and handmade goods sold out of a rustic farmhouse. It is the epitome of small-town charm.
Step inside and you’ll be greeted with rows of home-bottled pickles, hand-stitched quilts, creaky floorboards, friendly locals, and fresh cucumbers that were picked just that morning. They even sell homemade goat cheese and goat fudge!
And be sure to pick up a loaf of homemade sourdough bread if you are lucky enough to get there before they are sold out. It was some of the best sourdough bread I’ve ever had!
I love that the farmers market reflects the quintessential small-town country living.
While standing in line, I overheard one of the customers asking if they would like some fresh turkey eggs because hers just laid some that morning.
Another customer was short a few dollars so the cashier said they could mail a check or just swing by later and drop it off.
It was enough to make me want to pack up and move to the Strawberry to enjoy the sweet and simple country life!
The market is open Friday-Sunday and they only accept cash. Or you can mail a check if you forget because apparently, the honor system is still a thing in this small town.
Hike a portion of the Arizona Trail
The Arizona Trail is one of the most iconic trails in Arizona. It is 790 miles long, beginning at the Utah border and crossing the entire state before ending at the border of Mexico.
A portion of the trail can be accessed just outside of town at the Pine Trailhead, also known as the Highline Trail.
This passage of the trail stretches for just over 20 miles along the Mogollon Rim, but you can hike as far as you would like before turning back.
It’s a unique experience to say that you hiked part of the Arizona Trail!
Take a Scenic Drive to Potato Lake
Potato Lake is a serene lake with a thick backdrop of pines and aspen that is mirrored in the water.
The remote lake is located along the rugged forest road about 25 minutes from Strawberry, a high-clearance vehicle is recommended.
At the end of the road, you’ll park at a small camping area and then walk about a quarter mile to reach the lake.
When we visited, the water level was unfortunately quite low. It was more of a muddy pond, so I would be sure to ask the locals about the drought conditions before making the drive out there.
Despite that, the drive along Forest Route 613 is beautiful in and of itself, especially in the fall.
Visit a lavender farm
It is hard to imagine that lavender can survive in the desert state of Arizona.
However, the picturesque Pine Creek Canyon Lavender Farm proves that not only can this aromatic purple plant survive, but it can thrive.
This historic farm dates back to the 1880s when it was settled by early pioneers.
A few of the original structures remain and have been painstakingly restored to preserve their original architecture.
Step inside the farm store and you’ll be surrounded by the scent of lavender that is infused in every product.
The shelves are lined with homemade soaps, lotions, oils, and even lavender-infused honey and lemonade mix.
Be sure to try a homemade chocolate chip lavender cookie. It seems like an odd combination, but it is surprisingly delicious!
In addition to the farm stand, they also offer culinary classes, photo shoots, and group tours.
Go paddle boarding at Blue Ridge Reservoir
Blue Ridge Reservoir, also known as CC Cragin Reservoir, is a bit of an Arizona hidden gem.
The 8-mile river winds along a narrow gorge surrounded by steep slopes covered with ponderosa pines.
It is a setting that is better suited for the Pacific Northwest so it is surprising to find this kind of beauty here in Arizona.
The reservoir was created in 1965 but remains a bit of a secret. This waterway is hidden inside Coconino National Forest and you’ll only be sharing the water with a small handful of people.
Blue Ridge Reservoir is located about 40 minutes from Strawberry and can be reached by following FR 751 for 6 miles before reaching the small boat launch ramp.
The road can get rough, especially towards the end, so a high-clearance vehicle is recommended.
Only boats with a single 10-horsepower motor are allowed on the water, making it a great place to kayak or paddle board.
From the ramp, you can paddle upstream to the right for 3 miles, or head downstream to the left for 5 miles.
For more details, see our Blue Ridge Reservoir Travel Guide.
See the oldest standing schoolhouse in Arizona
The historic Strawberry Schoolhouse was built by pioneers in 1885 and is the oldest schoolhouse still standing in Arizona.
The 20×30 foot one-room log cabin was built using ponderosa pine. It served as the local elementary school until 1916 when it was shuttered due to a lack of students.
The schoolhouse fell into disrepair until the 1960s when it was donated to the local chamber of commerce.
It now serves as a museum and is listed under the National Register of Historic Places. The inside has been refurbished to reflect what it would have looked like over a century ago.
The museum is only open on Saturday and Sunday by appointment, but you can peek inside the windows if it is closed.
If you’re looking for more history, check out the Pine Museum.
The museum is located inside the Pine Community Center and is filled with artifacts and interesting information. Docents are even on hand to give you a tour.
Go antique shopping
The small main street in Pine is lined with several antique shops, including Moose Mountain Gifts & Antiques, Rusty Pinecone, Coach House Antiques, Timeless Treasures, and Fancy Finds.
My personal favorite is Fancy Finds. Here you’ll find a treasure trove of vintage furniture, one-of-a-kind gifts, and seasonal decor.
The shop is located inside an old country home where you’ll find merchandise tucked into every corner and spilling out of every nook and cranny.
When you first walk in, it’s a bit of a sensory overload in the best way possible! You could get lost in there for hours and still not see it all.
After stopping in at Fancy Finds, take time to check out some of the other shops and buildings along Highway 87.
You’ll find that many of them are old historic homes that have had new life breathed into them.
Hike along the Horton Creek Trail
The Horton Creek Trail is located east of Payson, about 40 minutes from Strawberry.
It is a tranquil hike that leads through the forest and alongside the stream with small waterfalls cascading down.
I was blown away by this hidden pocket of beauty, particularly when we visited in the fall.
The hike is an 8.6-mile out-and-back trail that is rated difficult. However, I would recommend only completing a portion of the trail.
The difficulty rating comes from the last mile where you’ll experience a significant elevation gain.
We only followed along the river for 1.5 miles before turning back and were still able to get our fill of the beauty.
The trail starts out crossing a dry riverbed and then follows through the forest. There is a good chance you may even come across some cattle grazing here.
After about 0.6 miles, you’ll start to see the river. Just before the 1-mile mark, there is a trail that cuts through the trees down to the riverbank.
From here, I would recommend just following the unofficial trail alongside the river.
You’ll need to hop on rocks to cross the river a few times when the trail ends on one side, but you should be able to keep your feet dry.
There are just so many beautiful scenes around every corner!
Our favorite spot is around the 1.15-mile mark where you’ll find this beautiful series of cascading falls.
For more details and information, see our guide to Hiking the Horton Creek Trail.
After your hike, be sure to stop at the Danzeisen Dairy Creamery Store in Payson for one of their Stack Shakes. It is made using fresh milk from their local dairy and makes for the perfect post-hike treat!
See the largest natural travertine bridge in the world
Tonto Natural Bridge is touted as the largest natural travertine bridge in the world and it is located only about 15 minutes from Strawberry!
There are several hiking trails at Tonto Natural Bridge State Park. The most popular is the 1.2-mile out-and-back Gowan Trail.
The trail is short but steep and leads down to the travertine bridge.
Here, you’ll be able to walk under the bridge and through the 400-foot tunnel as water rains down from the arch 180 feet above.
The Waterfall Trail is also a short side trail that is worth taking. It is only about 300 feet long and takes you to a small waterfall along Pine Creek that trickles down the moss-covered rocks.
For more hidden gems, click the link to discover 7 Underrated Spots in Arizona!
Hike to Water Wheel Falls
Water Wheel Falls is hands-down one of our favorite waterfall hikes in Arizona!
The 1.6-mile roundtrip trail follows along the East Verde River. Along the way, you can swim in shallow pools, slide on natural rock waterslides, cliff jump, and catch tadpoles.
The trail ends at the Ellison Creek Cascades, also known as the Water Wheel Falls (named for the old 1930s mining wheel that can be found at the beginning of the trail).
Here you’ll find towering granite cliffs and water cascading into a deep emerald pool. There is even a ladder notched into a wooden log that you can use to climb up closer to the waterfall.
The water is frigid cold year-round, but it is a great spot to cool off on a hot summer day.
Just be aware that this area is prone to flash floods, so do not attempt to hike during monsoon season if there is rain in the forecast.
For more information, see our Water Wheel Falls hiking guide.
Swim at Fossil Springs
Fossil Springs is a unique oasis that boasts rushing waterfalls, crystal clear pools, an emerald grotto, and the infamous “toilet bowl”.
Access is along the Bob Bear trail and you must reserve a permit in advance. The trail is a grueling 8 miles roundtrip.
The trail descends 1,500 feet for 4 miles until you reach the waterfall. It’s the return trip that is a killer as you’ll be hiking back uphill for 4 miles after spending all day playing in the sun.
The temperatures can also reach around 100 degrees in the summer, so you’ll need to pack plenty of water and plan accordingly.
Alternatively, you can also experience the crystal clear beauty of Fossil Creek via Fossil Creek Waterfall. These falls are located along the same river just downstream from Fossil Springs.
The waterfall is not quite as big but it is still absolutely beautiful. There are even places to cliff jump and play on rope swings. And the best part is that the hike is only an easy 2-mile roundtrip trail.
Unfortunately, Fossil Creek Waterfall can’t be reached from Strawberry, you’ll need to drive down a 14-mile dirt road by Camp Verde.
For more details, see our Fossil Creek Waterfall guide.
Best places to eat in Strawberry, Arizona
For such a small town, Strawberry-Pine is quite the foodie destination!
We were so impressed with the food scene here, every place we ate at was top notch and there are still several more restaurants we are anxious to try.
Pinewood Tavern
Chef Michael Dahling can take credit for transforming the food scene in Strawberry.
His two restaurants, Pinewood Tavern and Old County Inn, offer a chef-driven menu featuring fresh homemade dishes using locally sourced ingredients.
The Pinewood Tavern has the feel of an old mountain lodge where locals come together to enjoy a drink and shoot the breeze.
The menu offers an elevated take on traditional American favorites and I can personally guarantee that their burgers are one of the best you’ll ever have!
The burgers are juicy, the seasoning is perfect, the sauce is made from scratch, and the toppings are fresh.
A few of the more popular dishes include the Tavern Wings, Smoked Pork Nachos, Cowboy Burger, Hot Pastrami Sandwich, Pine Dip Sandwich, and Housemade Seasonal Cobbler.
Old County Inn
The Old County Inn is also the brainchild of Michael Dahling. He has used his talent and passion to create the best wood-fired pizza in all of Rim Country.
The homemade pizza crust is perfectly chewy and slightly charred. The Meat Pie is even sizzling with freshly ground sausage.
The pizza may be the star of the show, but the supporting roles deserve a moment in the limelight as well.
The House Breadsticks with Green Chile Beer Cheese dip is a must!
The Buffalo Chips are made from thinly sliced Kennebec potatoes and deep-fried to perfection. They are served with bleu cheese sauce and buffalo wing sauce.
The Fried Chix + Pix also came highly recommended. These hand-breaded chicken fingers are served with housemade pickles and a creamy buttermilk herb dressing.
Not only is the food to die for, but the atmosphere is just as fun. There is outdoor patio seating with a fireplace and string lights. They also have indoor dining at the main house and the Taproom Bar.
The Taproom Bar is bursting with character and feels as if it belongs somewhere in the Irish countryside.
The walls and ceiling are plastered with artwork that has been gathered from local antique shops and Christmas lights are hung year-round.
On weekends, a local musician can be found belting out soulful tunes in the corner as the lively crowd and music spill out into the yard.
PIEbar AZ
PIEbar is a colorful little roadside shop known for its handmade empanadas that are made fresh daily.
These flaky pastry hand pies are stuffed with sweet or savory fillings and there are so many flavors to choose from!
We went with two of the most popular choices, the Chicken Pot Pie and the Apple Dulce de Leche and they were both just bursting with flavor.
The seasonal menu also includes whole pies, coffee, cocktails, kombucha, and a selection of homemade sauces to go with the savory empanadas.
Pine Creek Fudge & Espresso
Pine Creek Fudge is a family-owned confectionery shop that is known for its rich and creamy homemade fudge. The fudge is made fresh right in the store using real ingredients, not artificial flavorings.
In addition to fudge, they also serve homebaked cinnamon rolls piled high with cream cheese frosting and filled with gooey cinnamon.
The menu also includes a variety of other baked goods, breakfast sandwiches, quiches, coffee, and more.
Take your goodies outdoors to enjoy on the porch surrounded by fresh air and the pines.
The Fossil Creek Farm is also another option for homemade baked goods and a farm-to-table menu.
The Randall House
*Update: Unfortunately the Randall House has since closed.
The historic Randall House gets the award for the most charming restaurant in Pine.
The original home was a two-room log cabin built by pioneer Alfred Jason Randall in 1881. During construction, his family slept in a covered wagon on the property.
Years later, their grandson George moved into the home with his new bride, Mary Ellen. Together they remodeled the home and raised their 3 boys here.
Their home was a gathering place for family and friends and Mary Ellen always made sure everyone left with a full belly.
That same tradition still carries on today, you’ll be treated like family and leave full and satisfied!
The Randall House is open for breakfast and lunch on Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
They take pride in creating dishes using garden fresh fruits and vegetables as well as high-quality meats and dairy products.
We actually didn’t have time to eat here, but I’m anxious to try it next time! A few of their specialties include crepes, omelets, the turkey Reuben sandwich, and homemade pecan pie.
You can enjoy your meal inside by the fireplace mantle, or outdoors in the sunny garden.
Be sure to walk the grounds and see the old public library too.
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Hopefully, this guide has inspired you as you plan a weekend getaway in Strawberry, Arizona, it truly is a gem!
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