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Tunnel Reservoir

Tunnel Reservoir is a picturesque high-elevation lake located in Arizona’s White Mountains, renowned for its tranquil setting and pristine natural beauty. Nestled among dense pine forests and rolling meadows, the lake provides anglers with excellent trout fishing opportunities and paddlers with calm waters for kayaking, canoeing, and small boat adventures.

What Makes Tunnel Reservoir Special

  • Quiet, less-crowded spot for wildlife and photography.

  • Ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and small boats.

  • Surrounded by pines and cool mountain scenery.

  • Stocked with rainbow & brook trout for fishing.

Visitor Information

Plan your visit with our access information and helpful tips

Hours & Access

Plan your arrival with our access guidelines

General Access

Open seasonally from April–November; winter access may be limited due to snow and road conditions.

Best Driving Route

From Phoenix, take US‑60 East → AZ‑260 East → Greer, paved roads until the short final approach.

Tunnel Reservoir Trail Route

Short shoreline paths and nearby forest trails provide hiking, wildlife viewing, and easy fishing access.

Vehicle Type

Accessible by standard passenger vehicles in dry conditions; high-clearance recommended in wet/snowy weather.

Tonto Pass

Not required, located in Apache‑Sitgreaves National Forest, not Tonto NF.

Note: Road conditions can change rapidly. Always verify current access routes before your visit.

Tips for Visitors

Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips

Bring Supplies

Carry basic supplies as amenities are limited and the area is remote.

Fishing Tackle

Use spinners, flies, night crawlers,spinners, flies, night crawlers, and trolling depending on the season.

Catch Limits

Follow state trout rules and pack out all trash, including fishing line.

No Live Bait

Live bait is prohibited to protect the fishery in Apache County lakes.

Water Levels

Be aware of lake drawdowns for irrigation ater in summer, though water quality remains good.

Remember: Preparation is key to an enjoyable and safe visit to this beautiful natural area.

Popular Activities

  • Trout Fishing
  • Kayaking
  • Wildlife Viewing
  • photography
  • Canoeing

Review by David Murphy

Location

    • Address:Apache County, in the Apache‑Sitgreaves National Forest, near Greer, AZ


    • Region: White Mountains, Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, Arizona


    • Nearest Town: Greer, AZ


  • Distance from Phoenix: Approximately 250 miles

Entry & Fees

Lake Access - Easy shoreline access with small boat launch for kayaks, canoes, and small electric boats

Tonto Forest Day Pass - Not required; managed by Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest

Camping Fees - Nearby campgrounds: $15–$30 per night, depending on site and season. Tent and small RV sites mostly primitive or dry camping; no hookups