The Mogollon Monster: Arizona’s Lesser-Known Bigfoot

Introduction

While Bigfoot gets most of the attention in cryptid lore, Arizona has its own version: the

Mogollon Monster.

This towering, red-eyed creature is said to stalk the pine forests along the Mogollon Rim — and sightings date back nearly 200 years.

A History of Sightings

• Native American legends speak of a “hairy man” who lived in the mountains and would sometimes steal food or livestock.

• In the 1900s, loggers and ranchers in the area reported seeing a massive, bipedal creature covered in dark hair, walking upright and emitting a foul stench.

• Modern sightings have been logged along highways near Payson, Heber, and along forest roads near the Rim.

  
  

Witnesses consistently describe:

✅ Height of 7 to 8 feet

✅ Red or glowing eyes at night

✅ Horrible smell — a mix of rotting flesh and skunk

✅ High-pitched screams or howls

Is It Just Bigfoot?

Some researchers argue the Mogollon Monster could be the same species as the Pacific Northwest’s Bigfoot — just adapted to Arizona’s forests. Others believe it’s a different creature altogether, given its more aggressive behavior and distinct odor.

Skeptics chalk up sightings to:

✅ Bears walking upright

✅ Misidentifications of elk or large deer

✅ Hoaxes fueled by campfire stories

Recent Reports

• In 2022, campers near Woods Canyon Lake recorded strange vocalizations at 2 AM — high-pitched and unlike any known animal.

• 2023: Hikers near the town of Young reported tree branches twisted unnaturally and large, barefoot footprints in muddy areas.

The Final Mystery

The Mogollon Monster remains a favorite of Arizona cryptid hunters — but no conclusive proof has ever been captured.

Have You Encountered It?

If you’ve seen or heard something strange in Arizona’s forests, share your story on the 918 BOARD.

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