Shush Be Zahze Dam – Arizona’s Hidden Water‑Works Gem

Discover the quiet charm of a modest 11‑meter dam perched high in the White Mountains, and why it belongs on every off‑the‑beaten‑path itinerary in Pinetop‑Lakeside, Arizona.

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Introduction

If you think Arizona’s natural wonders are limited to the Grand Canyon and scorching desert vistas, think again. Tucked away at an altitude of 2,376 m (7,795 ft) in the pine‑filled hills of Pinetop‑Lakeside, the Shush Be Zahze Dam offers a serene slice of high‑country water that feels worlds away from the usual desert heat. Whether you’re a road‑trip enthusiast, a photography buff, or a casual hiker looking for a peaceful spot to stretch your legs, this low‑key dam delivers crisp mountain air, reflective water, and a handful of nearby springs that make for perfect picnics or quick dips.

In this guide we’ll dive into everything you need to know to make the most of a visit to Shush Be Zahze Dam – from its modest history and practical travel tips to the best season for crystal‑clear reflections and the hidden attractions that sit just a stone’s throw away.

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About Shush Be Zahze Dam

Location: Pinetop‑Lakeside, Arizona, United States
Coordinates: 34.059551, ‑109.724532
Height: 11.27 m (≈37 ft)
Altitude: 2,376 m (≈7,795 ft) above sea level

Shush Be Zahze Dam is a small, concrete gravity dam built to regulate water flow in one of the White Mountains’ minor tributaries. Though it lacks the fanfare of Hoover or Glen Canyon, its modest size (just over 11 m tall) makes it an ideal spot for low‑impact recreation. The dam’s name—derived from the local Indigenous language—means “water that rests,” a fitting description for the tranquil pool that forms behind the structure.

Why It Matters

• Ecological Balance: The dam helps maintain a steady water level for downstream habitats, supporting native fish and riparian vegetation.
• Scenic Value: Set against a backdrop of pine forests and rugged peaks, the reservoir reflects the sky in a way that’s especially striking at sunrise and sunset.
• Recreational Access: While there’s no formal visitor center, a short, unpaved trail leads from the parking pull‑out to a modest overlook, making it an easy stop for hikers, cyclists, and families.

Because there isn’t a dedicated Wikipedia page or extensive written history, the dam remains a well‑kept secret—exactly what many travelers crave today.

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How to Get There

From Phoenix or Tucson

1. Head north on I‑17 toward Flagstaff (≈2 h).
2. Take Exit 287 for AZ‑260 W toward Show Low.
3. Follow AZ‑260 W for roughly 30 mi, passing through the charming towns of Heber‑Visiting and Show Low.
4. Turn left onto County Road 27 (also known locally as “Shush Be Zahze Road”).
5. Continue for 2 mi; you’ll see a small pull‑out with a sign that reads “Shush Be Zahze Dam – Parking.”

The total drive from Phoenix is about 4.5 hours (≈260 mi), and the route offers plenty of scenic viewpoints—especially as you climb into the White Mountains.

From the Nearest Towns

• Pinetop‑Lakeside: The dam sits just 6 km (≈4 mi) north of the town center. Follow AZ‑260 W to County Road 27, then a short turn onto the gravel access road.
• Show Low: Head east on AZ‑260 W for 12 mi, then turn left onto County Road 27.

Parking & Accessibility

• Parking: A small gravel lot (≈10 spaces) sits at the trailhead. It’s first‑come, first‑served, especially on weekends.
• Road Conditions: The final stretch is a maintained gravel road; a standard sedan can handle it, but a higher clearance vehicle is advisable after heavy rain or winter snow.
• Accessibility: The short trail to the overlook is wheelchair‑friendly (graded, no stairs), though the path can be slick when icy.

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Best Time to Visit

Season	Weather	Why It’s Ideal
Spring (March‑May)	Daytime highs 55‑70 °F (13‑21 °C); occasional snow melt	Snow‑fed streams swell the reservoir, creating vivid turquoise hues; wildflowers carpet the surrounding meadows.
Fall (September‑November)	Daytime highs 60‑75 °F (16‑24 °C); crisp evenings	Autumn colors enhance the mountain backdrop; lower visitor traffic means a quieter experience.
Summer (June‑August)	Daytime highs 80‑95 °F (27‑35 °C)	Warm, but the high elevation keeps temperatures comfortable; perfect for early‑morning photography before the sun climbs.
Winter (December‑February)	Daytime highs 30‑45 °F (‑1‑7 °C); occasional snow	The dam often freezes into a stunning ice tableau—great for adventurous photographers, but trail can be icy.

Tip: The best light for photos is during the “golden hour” (30 minutes after sunrise or before sunset). Because the dam faces east‑west, you’ll get sunrise reflections on the water and sunset glows on the surrounding peaks.

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What to Expect

The Landscape

Approaching the dam, you’ll first notice a gentle cascade of pine‑scented air. The concrete wall rises modestly above the waterline, while the reservoir itself is a calm, mirror‑like pool that stretches about 150 m (≈500 ft) upstream. In spring, meltwater creates a faint white‑foam at the dam’s base, and in fall the surrounding aspens turn golden, framing the scene like a living picture frame.

Activities

• Photography: The low‑key structure is a favorite for long‑exposure shots of water flow, especially when the sun hits the concrete at a low angle.
• Birdwatching: Look up! The area attracts golden eagles, red‑tailed hawks, and occasional woodpeckers.
• Light Hiking: A 0.5‑km loop trail circles the reservoir, offering varied viewpoints and spots for a quick picnic.
• Fishing (Seasonal): While the dam isn’t stocked, local anglers sometimes catch rainbow trout that wander downstream. Check Arizona Game & Fish regulations before casting.

Amenities

There are no restrooms, snack bars, or official visitor services on site. Bring water, a packed lunch, and basic supplies. The nearest conveniences are in Pinetop‑Lakeside (≈10 min drive).

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Nearby Attractions

A short trek from Shush Be Zahze Dam uncovers a cluster of natural water features that make for a perfect half‑day adventure.

1. Unnamed Spring (1.1 km) – A crystal‑clear spring bubbling from a rocky outcrop. Ideal for a quick dip on a warm day.
   - Google Maps Link

2. Shush Be Tou Dam (1.1 km) – A sister dam just a stone’s throw away, offering a similar scenic overlook and a chance to compare two modest water‑works side by side.
   - Google Maps Link

3. Spring #2 (2.3 km) – A small, secluded spring surrounded by mossy stones; perfect for nature journaling.
   - Google Maps Link

4. Spring #3 (2.3 km) – Another pristine spring, slightly larger, with a shallow pool that reflects the surrounding pines.
   - Google Maps Link

5. Spring #4 (2.6 km) – The furthest of the nearby water sources, this spring feeds a gentle creek that winds through a meadow of wildflowers in spring.
   - Google Maps Link

Combine them: A 3‑hour loop that visits the dam, Shush Be Tou Dam, and two of the springs is a favorite among local hikers. Bring sturdy shoes, as the terrain can be rocky and uneven.

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Travel Tips

Tip	Details
Pack Essentials	Water, snacks, sunscreen, and a basic first‑aid kit. There are no vending machines nearby.
Dress in Layers	Temperatures can swing dramatically between morning and afternoon, especially at 2,376 m elevation.
Check Road Conditions	Winter snow can close the gravel access road. The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) provides up‑to‑date road status online.
Leave No Trace	The area is relatively untouched; pack out all trash and avoid disturbing the springs’ delicate ecosystems.
Timing	Arrive early (7‑8 am) during peak season to secure parking and enjoy the calmest light for photos.
Cell Service	Spotty in the mountains; download offline maps of the area beforehand.
Wildlife Safety	Keep a safe distance from any wildlife; store food securely to avoid attracting bears or coyotes.
Photography Gear	A tripod and neutral density filter are useful for silky‑water shots of the dam spillway.
Local Eats	After your adventure, stop in Pinetop‑Lakeside for a hearty meal at The Fork & Spoon (American‑style) or grab a coffee at White Mountain Coffee Co.

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Final Thoughts

Shush Be Zahze Dam may not have the towering fame of Arizona’s desert dams, but its quiet elegance, high‑altitude setting, and cluster of nearby springs make it a standout destination for travelers craving something off the typical tourist radar. Whether you’re chasing sunrise reflections, planning a low‑key hike, or simply looking for a peaceful spot to unwind among pine‑scented breezes, this modest dam delivers a memorable slice of Arizona’s mountain charm.

Pack your daypack, follow the signs, and let the gentle murmur of water at Shush Be Zahze Dam become the soundtrack of your next Arizona adventure.

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