· US

Show Low

Show Low, Arizona, United States

Show Low, nestled in the picturesque White Mountains of Arizona, is a charming city that offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and historical significance. Its unique name is derived from a …

#Small town#Mountainous#Outdoor activities#Four seasons#Tourist destination
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Show Low.

Top Hotels in Show Low

Top Flights to Show Low

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Show Low.

Tours

Exploring Fool Hollow Lake

Enjoy the beautiful scenery and a variety of outdoor activities at Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area.

Shopping

Shopping in Downtown Show Low

Explore unique shops and boutiques in the heart of Show Low.

Outdoor

Hiking the White Mountain Trail System

Explore a network of trails in the beautiful White Mountains, suitable for all skill levels.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Show Low.

Currency
$ | USD | US Dollar
Population
12,000
Languages
English, English
Average weather
Show Low
Jan
snow
8°-6°
Feb
snow
10°-4°
Mar
cold
13°-2°
Apr
clear
17°1°
May
sun
22°5°
Jun
sun
27°10°
Jul
sun
29°14°
Aug
sun
28°13°
Sep
clear
25°9°
Oct
clear
19°3°
Nov
cold
13°-2°
Dec
snow
9°-5°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Show Low.

What people love

Show Low, Arizona is a charming city with plenty to offer for travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of big cities. Here are some pros of traveling to Show Low:

  1. Scenic Beauty: Show Low is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, camping, and other outdoor activities in the area.

  2. Outdoor Recreation: Show Low is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for biking, horseback riding, golfing, and more. The city's mild climate makes it a great place to enjoy outdoor activities year-round.

  3. Small-Town Charm: Show Low has a quaint downtown area with local shops, restaurants, and galleries. Visitors can soak up the small-town atmosphere and get a taste of local culture.

  4. Wildlife Viewing: Show Low is home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, and birds. Nature lovers will appreciate the chance to see these animals in their natural habitat.

  5. Cultural Attractions: Show Low has several cultural attractions, such as the Show Low Historical Society Museum and the White Mountain Apache Cultural Center. Visitors can learn about the area's history and indigenous culture.

Overall, Show Low offers a peaceful retreat for travelers seeking a mix of outdoor adventure and small-town charm.

What to know

Traveling to Show Low, Arizona, like any destination, may have some potential cons. Here are a few to consider:

  1. Limited Public Transportation: Show Low is a small city, so public transportation options may be limited. Renting a car may be necessary to get around efficiently.

  2. Weather Extremes: Show Low experiences all four seasons, including hot summers and cold winters. Extreme temperatures may not be ideal for all travelers.

  3. Remote Location: Show Low is located in a rural area, which means amenities and services may be more limited compared to larger cities.

  4. Outdoor Hazards: Being in a mountainous region, there may be risks associated with outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, or wildlife encounters. Visitors should be cautious and prepared.

  5. Tourist Crowds: While Show Low is not as heavily visited as some other Arizona destinations, peak tourism seasons may still bring crowds and potential congestion.

It's important to note that individual experiences may vary, and some travelers may not see these as significant drawbacks. It's always a good idea to research and plan accordingly based on your preferences and travel needs.

Show Low, Arizona, is a city located in Navajo County in the east-central part of the state. It has a fascinating history intertwined with the development of the American Southwest. Here is a detailed history of Show Low:

Origins and Founding

  • The Legend of Show Low: The town's name is derived from a legendary poker game between two early settlers, Corydon E. Cooley and Marion Clark, in the late 19th century. The story goes that the two men, co-owners of a large ranch, decided to dissolve their partnership. They agreed that whoever could "show low" in a game of poker (specifically, low card wins) would take ownership of the land. Cooley reportedly turned up the deuce of clubs and said, "Show low it is." The main street in Show Low is named "Deuce of Clubs" in honor of this legend.

  • Settlement: The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Apache. European-American settlers began moving into the region in the 1870s and 1880s, attracted by the fertile land and opportunities for ranching.

Development

  • Early Economy: The economy of Show Low was historically based on ranching and agriculture. Logging also became a significant industry due to the surrounding forests.

  • Incorporation: Show Low was officially incorporated as a city in 1953.

Significant Events

  • Wildfires: The area has experienced several major wildfires, with the Rodeo-Chediski Fire in 2002 being one of the most notable. It was the largest wildfire in Arizona's history at the time, burning over 468,000 acres. Show Low was evacuated, but the city itself was largely spared due to the efforts of firefighters.

  • Economic Growth: In recent decades, Show Low has seen growth in tourism and retirement communities, with many people attracted to its mild climate and beautiful natural surroundings.

Historical Figures

  • Corydon E. Cooley: One of the two men responsible for the town's name, Cooley was an influential figure in the early development of the area. He was involved in ranching and was known for his dealings with Native American tribes.

Important Landmarks

  • Deuce of Clubs Avenue: The main street running through Show Low, named in homage to the poker game that supposedly decided the town's name.

  • Show Low Lake: A popular spot for fishing, camping, and outdoor recreation.

  • Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area: Another key recreational site that attracts visitors for camping, fishing, and hiking.

  • Bison Golf Club: A well-known golf course in the area, contributing to the city's appeal as a destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

  • Show Low Historical Society Museum: This museum offers insights into the history of Show Low and the surrounding region, featuring exhibits on Native American history, pioneer life, and local industries.

Show Low continues to be a vibrant community that balances its rich history with modern development. Its unique name, tied to a legendary card game, reflects the town’s colorful past and ongoing appeal.