In the heart of Pinetop, Woodland Lake Park always seems to have something to offer. Crowds thin out in winter, leaving the park a little more quiet. The paved 1.25-mile trail takes you completely around Woodland Lake. Bald eagles are regularly spotted, as well as many different waterfowl and songbirds, and of course the tassel-eared Abert's squirrel. Sipe White Mountain Wildlife Area .
Elk roam the irrigated fields and surrounding upland juniper grasslands and forested bluffs.
Winter is the best time to view elk here, as large herds often congregate in these lower-elevation ranges. A good time to visit is after a hard snowfall in the higher mountains. That way, you'll get a good view of the lower pastures before you drive down the hill. Often, the sound of vehicles driving down that last hill sends the elk running into the surrounding bluffs. Pick a warmer, sunny winter day, pack a lunch, and head to Sipe for a beautiful day of wildlife observing.