Grasslands Wildlife Area

Grasslands Wildlife Area

Springerville, Arizona 85938

Official Website
Grasslands Wildlife Area map

Tips for Birding

Both mountain and western bluebirds are found in the junipers in winter. The meadows and grasslands offer opportunities to see golden eagle, northern harrier, red-tailed hawk, and other raptors. Birding is best in spring, summer, and fall.

About this Location

The White Mountain Grasslands Wildlife Area is located in east-central Arizona, approximately seven miles west of the towns of Springerville and Eagar. To get there, from Eagar, drive west on State Highway 260 about five miles to the junction of the road to the Springerville transfer station at milepost 391.4. Follow the paved road north, then west .6 miles to the southwest corner of the first hill. When the road turns north again, take the dirt road to the left three miles, in a northwest direction, to a cattle guard on the fence line boundary. Cross the cattle guard and proceed a short distance to the parking area. Park at designated sites only. The road is suitable for passenger cars. The wildlife area is open from sunrise to sunset.

On June 25, 1999, the Cross L Ranch, consisting of 1,713 deeded acres, was purchased by the Arizona Game and Fish Department (Department). On August 8, 2000, the purchase of the adjacent Ocote Ranch added another 1,137 acres to the White Mountain Grasslands Wildlife Area, bringing its total size to deeded 2,850 acres.

Notable Trails

The Ocote Trail is a 2.6-mile hiking trail of moderate difficulty that overlooks and loops a large draw containing juniper woodland, grassland and ponds. There’s a high probability of seeing pronghorn antelope, rock and golden-mantled squirrels, chipmunks and rabbits. There’s also a possibility of seeing elk, coyote, badger, striped skunk and gray fox. 

Content from Official Website