Pinetop-Lakeside is an incorporated community located in the scenic White Mountains of Arizona. Founded in the early 1880's by Mormon pioneers, Lakeside derived its name from the area's lakes, and Pinetop derived it name from the nickname of a saloon keeper who served the Fort Apache soldiers. The two communities incorporated as one town in 1984. Pinetop-Lakeside, at an elevation of 7,200 feet, is known for its extensive tourism and recreational activities, proximity to the world's largest stand of Ponderosa pine, and for an outstanding quality of life. From Phoenix, US 60 through the scenic Salt River Canyon or State Highway 260 through Payson will lead to Pinetop-Lakeside.

Principal Economic Activities

Pinetop-Lakeside is a part of the dynamic economic development of Arizona. It offers many resources: pollution-free air, plentiful clean water, forest products, abundant recreational activities, access to major metropolitan areas, a refreshing four-season climate, and a well-planned rural business atmosphere to serve the needs of the people in its region.

The economy of Pinetop-Lakeside is heavily oriented toward trade and services for tourists and recreational-seekers, as well as residents. A winter sports complex, Sunrise Ski Resort, located 30 miles east of Pinetop-Lakeside on the White Mountain Apache Indian Reservation, attracts skiers from around the southwest as well as internationally with its well developed slopes and facilities. Pinetop-Lakeside provides much of the available lodging, and local businesses have taken advantage of this new market.

The Town of Pinetop-Lakeside facilitates the operation of a new commerce park located on Porter Mountain Road that has all underground utilities, paved streets and easy access for transportation needs.