Bold thought: Sometimes the best way to move forward as a family… is to go where time

stands still.

But let’s start with some trivia

What kinds of fish can anglers expect to catch at Hawley Lake?

A. Largemouth bass and catfish
B. Trout: rainbow, brown, brook, cutthroat
C. Salmon and steelhead
D. Carp and tilapiael buddy and the guy who’s always on the hunt for exciting

Answer after the article (at the end of the text!)

The Story

I’ll never forget the first time I woke up at Hawley Lake. My kids were still snuggled in

their sleeping bags, breath puffing little clouds into the cold morning air. The lake was so

still it looked like glass—except for the ripples made by a lone elk taking a morning drink.

I brewed coffee on the camp stove, and for the first time in months, we didn’t check our

phones. No buzzing notifications. No rushing to get somewhere. Just the sound of the

wind through the pines and the giggles of my youngest when she spotted a bald eagle

overhead.

That afternoon, we hiked up a nearby ridge. The view stopped us in our tracks—rolling

pine forests, the lake sparkling below, and a sky so wide it felt like we could fall into it. My

oldest said, “It feels like the world is bigger here.” I knew exactly what she meant.

Hawley Lake didn’t just give us a weekend trip—it gave us space to remember who we are

together.

Why Hawley Lake?

Tucked high in the White Mountains of eastern Arizona, Hawley Lake is a treasure for

families who want more connection and less chaos.

Here’s why it works magic:

• Cooler Summers & Snowy Winters – Escape desert heat or embrace winter wonder.

• Water & Woods – Fish in the morning, hike in the afternoon, roast marshmallows at night.

• No “Always On” – Limited cell service means your brain actually gets a vacation too.

Step-by-Step: Your Family’s Hawley Lake Adventure

1. Pick Your Season

• Summer (June–Aug): Perfect for fishing, paddleboarding, and cool evenings under the stars.

• Fall (Sept–Oct): Aspen leaves turn gold—great for family photos.

• Winter (Dec–Feb): Snowshoeing, sledding, and cozy cabin fires.

• Spring (Apr–May): Wildflowers and fewer crowds.

2. Choose Your Stay

• Cabins: Warm, rustic, and right on the water.

• Campgrounds: Tent or RV spots with lake views.

• Nearby Lodges: For families who like hot showers and comfy beds after a day outdoors.

3. Plan Your Days

• Morning: Cast a line for rainbow trout. (Tip: My 8-year-old caught one bigger than mine.)

• Midday: Picnic by the shore, spot eagles and ospreys.

• Afternoon: Hike the surrounding trails or rent a canoe.

• Evening: S’mores, stargazing, and stories by the fire.

4. Pack Smart

• Layers—mountain weather changes quick.

• Fishing gear or rent on-site.

• Board games for unplugged nights.

• Binoculars for wildlife spotting.

Hidden Gems Nearby

If you can tear yourself away from the lake, these spots are worth the short drive:

• Sunrise Park Resort – Winter skiing, summer ziplining.

• Apache Cultural Center – Learn the history and traditions of the White Mountain Apache Tribe.

• Meadow Creek Trail – Easy hike through wildflower meadows with picnic-perfect clearings.

Wellness Tips for the Lake Life

• Morning Movement: Start the day with gentle stretches on the dock.

• Mindful Meals: Involve kids in preparing campfire chili or grilled veggies.

• Gratitude Game: Before bed, each person shares one thing they noticed that day in nature.

Big Lesson

You don’t have to go far to go deep. Hawley Lake is more than a trip—it’s a reminder that

the best connections are made when the only thing on your schedule is being together.

Proverb to Keep: “The slower you go, the closer you get.”

FAQs

• Where is Hawley Lake? In Arizona’s White Mountains on the Fort Apache Reservation.

• Do you need a permit? Yes, a reservation recreation permit is required for fishing and some activities.

• Is there cell service? Very limited—consider it a feature, not a flaw.

• Are pets allowed? Yes, but follow leash rules.

• What’s the best fishing season? Late spring through early fall.

• Can you swim in Hawley Lake? Swimming isn’t recommended due to cold temps and boating traffic.

• Are there stores nearby? A small convenience store for basics, but bring main supplies.

• What wildlife might you see? Elk, deer, eagles, ospreys, and maybe a black bear.

• Is it family-friendly year-round? Yes—just plan for snow gear in winter.

• Do cabins book fast? Very—reserve several months in advance.

Your Turn: If this gave you ideas for your next unplugged family trip, drop a comment with your favorite “quiet place” or star this article so you can find it later. And if you know someone who needs a break from their phone, share this with them.

P.S. Answer: ✅B. Trout: rainbow, brown, brook, cutthroat