White Mountain Wildlife Center | Pinetop Lakeside

White Mountain Nature Center, located at 425 S. Woodland Road in Pinetop-Lakeside, Arizona, is a dedicated nonprofit organization focused on environmental education and wildlife conservation. Established in 2004, it serves as a vital community resource connecting residents and visitors to the natural beauty and ecological diversity of the White Mountains region.

Location and Grounds

The center is set on a spacious 10-acre site adjacent to the Big Springs Environmental Study Area, with an additional 5 acres leased from the Town of Pinetop-Lakeside. The grounds feature native plants and natural habitats that provide visitors with a sense of the local ecosystem’s richness. Walking paths with interpretive signage guide visitors through varied terrain, promoting a hands-on learning experience.

Wildlife and Raptor Program

One of the center’s most unique attractions is its partnership with Land On Sky Wildlife Experiences, which operates a renowned Raptor Show. This daily program features trained birds of prey including Eurasian Eagle Owls, Red-tailed Hawks, and Aplomado Falcons flying freely in naturalistic flight demonstrations. These shows educate visitors about raptor biology, behavior, and conservation, offering a rare opportunity to see these majestic birds up close.

The center also houses several educational raptors that are part of their rehabilitation and conservation efforts, providing a safe home for non-releasable birds and a platform to promote awareness of wildlife preservation.

Educational Facilities and Programs

The White Mountain Nature Center functions as a hub for environmental education. It offers a visitor center with exhibits on local flora, fauna, geology, and cultural history. Inside, interactive displays engage visitors with information about the region’s ecosystems, wildlife species, and conservation challenges.

Throughout the year, the center hosts various educational programs tailored for different age groups, including school field trips, summer camps, workshops, and community events. Programs such as the Discovery Learning Camp introduce children to natural science concepts through hands-on activities, nature hikes, and wildlife observation.

Guided nature walks are regularly scheduled on the half-mile self-guided trail within the adjacent Big Springs Environmental Study Area. This trail showcases native vegetation and wildlife habitats, supported by informative signage to enhance the learning experience.

Visitor Amenities

Visitors to the center can explore the outdoor grounds freely during daylight hours, enjoying the peaceful setting and wildlife viewing opportunities. The indoor nature store offers educational materials, nature-themed gifts, field guides, and local artisan crafts. Staff and volunteers are available to answer questions and provide resources to deepen visitor knowledge about the White Mountains environment.

The center is wheelchair accessible, with paved paths and facilities designed to welcome visitors of all mobility levels. Restrooms and seating areas are thoughtfully placed throughout the property to ensure comfort during visits.

Community Engagement and Conservation

White Mountain Nature Center actively collaborates with local schools, governmental agencies, and conservation organizations to promote environmental stewardship. Their efforts include habitat restoration projects, wildlife monitoring, and public awareness campaigns.

They also serve as a platform for seasonal and special events, such as Earth Day celebrations, wildlife photography workshops, and native plant sales, helping to foster a strong community connection to nature.

Practical Information

Address: 425 S. Woodland Road, Pinetop-Lakeside, AZ 85929

Phone: (928) 358-3069

Hours: Visitor center and store open Wednesday through Saturday, 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM (hours may vary seasonally)

White Mountain Nature Center offers a rich, immersive experience for anyone interested in the natural world, combining wildlife education, conservation efforts, and community programs in a beautiful mountain setting. It stands as an essential destination for families, educators, students, and nature lovers exploring the White Mountains region.