Our team, as independent US travel authorities, is here to provide you with a confident and specific look at this unique destination.
Nestled below the majestic Mogollon Rim, just outside Payson, Arizona, Below the Rim Meadery offers a truly distinctive tasting experience. This family-run honey winery invites visitors to savor handcrafted honey wine, often accompanied by delicious snacks and charcuterie, all enjoyed on their serene forest tasting patio. It's a seasonal gem, typically welcoming guests from late spring through the fall, weather permitting.
Why Visit Below the Rim Meadery
For those seeking an escape from the ordinary, a visit to Below the Rim Meadery Arizona presents a compelling reason to venture into Arizona's Rim Country. We find that the meadery offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty, culinary delight, and a fascinating glimpse into the world's oldest alcoholic beverage: mead. This isn't just a place to drink; it's an experience that engages your senses and transports you to a tranquil setting.
The mead itself is a highlight. Crafted from simple, natural ingredients—honey, yeast, and water—the meads here are naturally gluten-free and low in sulfites, making them an excellent option for many palates. The family behind Below the Rim Meadery began their journey out of a personal need, after the patriarch, Rob Mitchell, was diagnosed with Celiac disease, prompting him to create his own delicious honey wines. This passion translates into a diverse range of unique flavors, from traditional honey wines to those infused with fruits and spices, each designed to stimulate your palate.
Beyond the mead, the setting is undeniably part of the charm. The tasting patio, surrounded by the cool pines of the Tonto National Forest, provides a refreshing contrast to Arizona's desert landscapes. It’s an idyllic spot to relax, unwind, and connect with nature while enjoying your tasting flight. Our team believes that the combination of artisanal mead, a peaceful environment, and the warm, family-run hospitality makes Below the Rim Meadery a truly special destination.
Who It's Best For
Below the Rim Meadery caters to a diverse array of visitors, though we find it particularly appealing to certain groups. It's an ideal destination for couples seeking a romantic and unique outing, offering a quiet ambiance perfect for conversation and shared experiences. Small groups of friends looking for a distinctive tasting adventure will also find it highly enjoyable, as the patio setting encourages leisurely enjoyment and camaraderie.
Foodies and craft beverage enthusiasts are naturally drawn to the meadery. Those curious about honey wine, its history, and its modern interpretations will appreciate the opportunity to sample various styles and learn about the fermentation process. Given the mead's naturally gluten-free nature, it's also an excellent choice for individuals with dietary sensitivities who might otherwise feel limited in their beverage options.
Nature lovers and those looking to escape the city bustle will also find solace here. The meadery's location, nestled in the forest below the Mogollon Rim, offers a serene backdrop that complements the tasting experience. It’s a place where you can slow down, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and appreciate the natural beauty of Arizona’s high country. While it’s primarily an adult-oriented experience, families with older, well-behaved children who can appreciate the natural surroundings might also enjoy a brief stop, though the focus remains on the mead tasting.
Getting There & Parking
Navigating to Below the Rim Meadery requires a bit of preparation, but the journey is part of the adventure. The meadery is located at 626 Nf-199, Payson, AZ 85541, just outside Payson, below the Mogollon Rim.
For those traveling from Phoenix, the drive typically takes around 90 minutes and is largely uncongested, offering stunning views along the Beeline Highway. Once you approach Payson, you'll need to transition onto dirt roads through forest service land. Our team advises extreme caution here. While these roads are generally well-maintained during most seasons and can be navigated by vehicles with average clearance, it's crucial to drive carefully once the pavement ends and especially when crossing the creek.
When planning how to get to Below the Rim Meadery, we strongly recommend reviewing and downloading their PDF directions, which include photos of each turn, to your device before you lose cell service. GPS apps like Google Maps and Apple Maps can sometimes be inaccurate and may take you slightly past the entrance. Be sure to enter the meadery's location and start your GPS before leaving Payson or your starting point. Look for the "BTRM" sign and veer left through a green gate to enter. There is no "northern entrance" via Washington Park Road (nf-32).
Regarding Below the Rim Meadery parking, you'll find space available on-site at the tasting patio. Given its location on forest service land, parking is typically informal but adequate for visitors. We recommend arriving a bit earlier, especially on busy weekend afternoons, to ensure a convenient spot. The meadery does provide Wi-Fi at the patio, which can be helpful for routing your trip home after you've regained cell service.
Top Things to Do
When you visit Below the Rim Meadery, the primary draw is, of course, the mead tasting experience. However, there are also plenty of other "things to do at Below the Rim Meadery" and in the surrounding Payson area to fill your itinerary.
At Below the Rim Meadery:
- Mead Tasting: Indulge in a flight of their unique honey wines. Mead master Rob Mitchell crafts a variety of flavors, often incorporating fruits and spices, ensuring there's something to suit every palate. Don't miss the opportunity to learn about the different styles and the fascinating history of mead.
- Enjoy the Patio and Scenery: The forest tasting patio is an attraction in itself. Settle in, breathe the fresh mountain air, and take in the serene surroundings below the Mogollon Rim. It's the perfect spot for leisurely conversation and relaxation.
- Pair with Snacks and Charcuterie: Enhance your tasting experience with the snacks and charcuterie typically offered on the patio. These carefully selected accompaniments are designed to complement the mead and elevate your visit.
- Purchase Mead to Go: If you find a favorite, you can purchase bottles to take home, or even find their products at various locations in the Phoenix-Metro area.
- Check for Special Events: The meadery occasionally hosts live music weekends and other special events. Our team advises checking their "EVENTS" page for the most up-to-date schedule for 2026, including potential holiday hours or themed gatherings.
Things to Do in Payson & Rim Country:
Beyond the meadery, Payson and the surrounding Rim Country offer a wealth of outdoor activities and cultural attractions. We assure you, you won't be bored.
- Explore the Mogollon Rim: This dramatic 2,000-foot escarpment stretches for miles, offering breathtaking views of forests, valleys, and distant mountains. Drive along scenic viewpoints or hike nearby trails for an immersive experience. It's particularly stunning at sunrise and sunset.
- Hike in Tonto National Forest: Payson is nestled within the Tonto National Forest, providing easy access to numerous hiking trails. Popular options include Water Wheel Falls Trail, known for its pools, waterfalls, and a historic water wheel, and Horton Creek Trail, which follows a sparkling mountain stream. Pine Creek Trail also offers great views and wildlife sightings.
- Visit Tonto Natural Bridge State Park: Home to one of the largest natural travertine bridges in the world, this impressive geological attraction is a must-see. The bridge was formed over thousands of years by mineral-rich water.
- Discover Green Valley Park: Located right in town, this popular recreational area features small lakes, walking paths, grassy lawns, and shaded picnic areas. It’s perfect for a peaceful stroll, fishing, or bird watching.
- Experience Rim Country Museum & Zane Grey Cabin: Delve into the history of Arizona’s Rim Country. The museum chronicles pioneer artifacts and Native American culture, and you can step inside a reconstructed cabin where author Zane Grey wrote many of his Western novels.
- Go Fishing or Boating: Payson is surrounded by cool mountain lakes ideal for water activities. Woods Canyon Lake and Willow Springs Lake are popular spots for fishing, kayaking, and picnicking.
- Wildlife Viewing: Keep your eyes peeled for elk, deer, and other wildlife, especially in open meadows, along golf courses, and during early mornings or evenings.
- Play Golf: Enjoy a round at Payson Golf Course, a scenic par-71 course where wildlife sightings are common.
- Visit Tonto Creek Fish Hatchery: This historic hatchery raises six trout species and offers tours of raceways, fish feeding at the show pond, and opportunities to spot local wildlife.
Whether you're exploring the natural wonders or enjoying the small-town charm, the "things to do in Payson" complement a visit to Below the Rim Meadery perfectly.
Best Time to Visit
Our team recommends planning your visit to Below the Rim Meadery during its active season, which typically runs from late spring through the fall, generally April to late October. This period aligns with the most pleasant weather conditions in Arizona's high country, allowing for comfortable enjoyment of the outdoor tasting patio.
Specifically, the meadery is scheduled to re-open for the 2026 season on April 17, 2026. Early spring (April, May) and late fall (September, October) often provide ideal temperatures – warm days and cool evenings – perfect for being outdoors. These shoulder seasons might also offer fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months.
Summer (June, July, August) in Payson is a popular escape from the intense heat of Phoenix and other lower desert areas. While it can be busy, the cooler mountain climate makes it a refreshing retreat. During the summer, the meadery has historically extended its hours to include Friday cocktail hours and Sunday morning brunch, offering more opportunities to visit.
We advise checking the meadery's official website or social media channels for their precise 2026 operating hours, any specific dates for closures, and details on special events before your visit. Weather conditions, especially later in the fall, can influence their exact closing date, as the patio operates "while weather allows".
Where to Stay Nearby
Finding comfortable Below the Rim Meadery lodging is straightforward, with a variety of options available in Payson, just a short drive from the meadery. We've identified several excellent choices to suit different preferences and budgets, ensuring a relaxing stay after your mead tasting adventure.
Payson offers a range of hotels, from well-known chains to unique local establishments. Some of the top-rated options include:
- Majestic Mountain Inn: Often praised for its spacious rooms and inviting pool area, it's a great choice for relaxation.
- Quality Inn Payson: Known for excellent customer service and a convenient location, it's also often pet-friendly.
- Best Western Inn of Payson: Centrally located and within walking distance to restaurants, featuring an indoor pool, hot tub, and complimentary hot breakfast.
- Comfort Inn Payson: Offers an indoor pool, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a buffet breakfast.
- Super 8 by Wyndham Payson: A budget-friendly motel offering free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and often pet-friendly amenities.
- Kohl's Ranch Lodge: Nestled in Payson's wilderness, this tranquil lodge features an outdoor pool and a steakhouse. Guests often praise the helpful staff and clean rooms.
Many of these hotels are pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry companions along for the trip. If you prefer vacation rentals, Payson also has options ranging from cabins with mountain views to homes with hot tubs.
When considering Below the Rim Meadery lodging, we recommend booking in advance, especially if you plan to visit during peak season (summer or popular holiday weekends). Prices for hotels in Payson typically range from $84 to $237 per night in 2026, with June often being the highest-priced month and November the lowest.
Staying in Payson provides easy access not only to the meadery but also to the many outdoor activities and attractions in the Rim Country, making it an ideal base for your Arizona adventure. For broader Arizona travel, consider exploring our guide to the Best places in Arizona, which includes iconic destinations like Grand Canyon National Park and Monument Valley Navajo Park.
Sample 2-Day Itinerary
Our team has crafted a sample 2-day itinerary to help you make the most of your visit to Below the Rim Meadery and the beautiful Payson area.
Day 1: Mead, Nature & Local Charm
- Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Explore the Mogollon Rim. Start your day with breathtaking views from the Mogollon Rim. Drive along the scenic overlooks and take a short, easy hike on one of the many trails that offer panoramic vistas of the Tonto National Forest. This is an excellent opportunity for wildlife spotting, especially elk and deer.
- Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM): Picnic with a View. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the designated picnic areas along the Mogollon Rim, or grab a casual bite at a local Payson eatery.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Below the Rim Meadery Experience. Head to Below the Rim Meadery. Allow ample time for the drive on the dirt roads and use the downloaded PDF directions. Enjoy a leisurely mead tasting on their forest patio, pairing your honey wines with available snacks or charcuterie. Take in the peaceful, natural surroundings.
- Late Afternoon (4:00 PM - 6:00 PM): Green Valley Park. Return to Payson and unwind at Green Valley Park. Take a relaxing stroll around the lakes, enjoy some bird watching, or simply sit by the water.
- Evening (6:00 PM onwards): Dinner in Payson. Enjoy dinner at one of Payson's local restaurants. Options range from casual American fare to more unique local flavors. Consider the Pinon Café for a taste of local history and generous portions.
Day 2: History, Waterfalls & Outdoor Adventure
- Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Tonto Natural Bridge State Park. Drive to Tonto Natural Bridge State Park, home to the world's largest natural travertine bridge. Explore the various viewpoints and trails that lead down to the bridge and surrounding area.
- Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM): Payson Eatery. Head back to Payson for lunch.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Water Wheel Falls Trail. Embark on an easy-to-moderate hike along the Water Wheel Falls Trail. This scenic 1.6-mile trail in the Tonto National Forest features pine trees, a cascading creek, and an abandoned water wheel. Enjoy the pools and small waterfalls along the way.
- Late Afternoon (4:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Rim Country Museum. For a dose of local history, visit the Rim Country Museum and the reconstructed Zane Grey Cabin.
- Evening: Departure or Relax. Depending on your travel plans, you can begin your journey home or enjoy a final relaxing evening in Payson, perhaps catching a show at the Mazatzal Casino.
This itinerary provides a balanced mix of meadery enjoyment, natural exploration, and local culture. Remember to check hours and any reservation requirements for specific attractions closer to your travel dates. For more trip planning resources, visit our Plan Your US Trip page.
Below the Rim Meadery with kids
While Below the Rim Meadery is primarily an adult-oriented tasting experience, families with older, well-behaved children are generally welcome on the patio during operating hours. The serene forest setting offers a pleasant environment, but there are no specific children's activities or play areas. We recommend ensuring children understand the quiet nature of a tasting room. For more kid-friendly activities, Payson offers Green Valley Park, Tonto Creek Fish Hatchery, and various hiking trails like Water Wheel Falls Trail.
Best hotels near Below the Rim Meadery
The best hotels near Below the Rim Meadery are located in Payson, just a short drive away. Top recommendations from our team include the Majestic Mountain Inn, Quality Inn Payson, Best Western Inn of Payson, and Comfort Inn Payson. These offer a range of amenities, from pools and complimentary breakfasts to pet-friendly options, ensuring a comfortable stay. For a more rustic experience, Kohl's Ranch Lodge is also a great choice.
Below the Rim Meadery tips
Our top tips for visiting Below the Rim Meadery include: 1) Download their PDF directions with photos before you lose cell service, as GPS can be inaccurate and lead you astray on the dirt roads. 2) Plan your visit between April and October, as this is their typical operating season. 3) Check their website or social media for current 2026 hours, special events, and any reservation requirements, especially for holidays. 4) Drive cautiously on the unpaved forest roads and when crossing the creek. 5) Consider bringing a designated driver if you plan to enjoy multiple tastings.
Where to stay near Below the Rim Meadery
The most convenient place to stay near Below the Rim Meadery is in Payson, Arizona. You'll find a good selection of hotels such as the Majestic Mountain Inn, Quality Inn Payson, Super 8 by Wyndham Payson, and Comfort Inn Payson. These accommodations provide a comfortable base for exploring both the meadery and the wider Rim Country attractions. For those seeking unique lodging, vacation rentals and cabins are also available in the Payson area.
Below the Rim Meadery parking
Below the Rim Meadery parking is available on-site at their forest tasting patio. Access involves driving on dirt roads through forest service land. These roads are generally well-maintained for most seasons and can be traversed by vehicles with average clearance, but caution is advised once the pavement ends and particularly when crossing the creek. We recommend downloading the meadery's specific PDF directions, complete with photos, as GPS systems may not be entirely accurate and could lead you past the entrance gate. Look for the "BTRM" sign and veer left through a green gate.
Best time to visit Below the Rim Meadery
The best time to visit Below the Rim Meadery is during its operating season, which typically runs from April to late October, weather permitting. Our team suggests the shoulder seasons of late spring (April-May) and early fall (September-October) for the most pleasant temperatures and potentially fewer crowds. Summer (June-August) is also popular as an escape from the heat, and the meadery may offer extended hours with brunch and cocktail services during this time. Always verify their specific 2026 hours and any closures on their official website before your trip.
Our team at Visit America confidently recommends Below the Rim Meadery for anyone seeking a unique and tranquil escape into Arizona's high country. This family-run establishment offers more than just exceptional honey wine; it provides a complete sensory experience, from the distinct flavors of their meads to the serene beauty of their forest patio. Paired with the abundant outdoor adventures and charming local attractions of Payson, a visit here truly embodies the spirit of discovery that we champion. It's a destination that perfectly blends artisanal craft with natural splendor, leaving visitors refreshed and with a newfound appreciation for this ancient beverage.
Last updated: 2026-07-05 by the Visit America team.