05/29/2026
Roper Lake is situated next to Mt Graham, which is what’s called a Sky Island. This is a really unique part of Arizona’s geography. Across the southern part of the state, there are mountains that have vastly different climates to the surrounding area due to the higher elevation. As a result, they function as “islands”, where the animals and plants on the mountain are effectively stuck as if they are on an island. The mountain is home to the Mt Graham Red Squirrel, which is found nowhere else in the world, as well as one of the highest populations of black bears in the state. Come visit the area to experience the mountain for yourself!
