Bear Canyon Lake

Compliments of Arizona Fish & Game

Location & Description. Bear Canyon Lake, located about 44 miles northeast of Payson, Arizona and 25 miles west of Heber-Overgaard in Mogollon Rim country, is one of Arizona's most scenic lakes. The spectacular scenic drive features several lookout points to enjoy the views from the edge of the Mogollon Rim. Bear Canyon Lake is quite remote and appears to have been rarely touched by civilization.

The lake is a narrow, canyon-bound lake with a thick forest that extends right to its shoreline. It has two access points that requires parking and then a short hikes to the shore. The northern point leads to a parking lot with a restroom and then you have to hike about a quarter-mile down a steep hill to the lake. The southern point also has a parking lot and restroom but the quarter-mile hike is not quite as steep. Those that make the trek will be handsomely rewarded with tranquil beauty and a great fishing experience. The lake sits a 7,560 foot elevation which means cool, refreshing temperatures in the late spring, summer and early fall. Access is limited during the winter from November to late April due to snow.

Lake Size. The water surface of Bear Canyon Lake is about 50 acres with a maximum depth of about 50 feet.

Fish Variety. The lake is stocked with Rainbow Trout six times annually.

Fishing. Live bait is not permitted. The lake is steep and deep. Fly-fishing or wading from the shore is not recommended since in most spots the tree line comes right to the water's edge. Fly fishing using a float tube can provide good results. If fishing near the bottom of the lake, don't cast too far into the deeper water. Worms are okay and using them with a bobber can be quite relaxing. A state fishing license and trout stamp is required for anglers 14 years and above. Children age 13 or younger do not require a license. The daily bag limit is 6 trout or 3 for unlicensed anglers.

Boating, Camping & Amenities. Dispersed camping is available and free at the junction of FR 89 and 89A. There are barrier-free toilets along FR89A. There is no boat ramp. Boats must be carried from the two access parking lots.

Directions. The lake is about 44 miles northeast of Payson AZ and 25 miles west of Heber-Overgaard AZ. From Payson, take Highway 260 northeast. From Heber, take Highway 260 west. From Highway 260, near Mile Post 291, travel west on Forest Road 300 (Rim Road) for about 12 miles. FR 300 is paved for about 3 miles to the Woods Canyon Lake turnoff where it turns to gravel. Take Forest Road 89 north for about 2 miles, then turn right onto Forest Road 89A to one of the two lake access points.

Nearest Lodging. The nearest hotels are Payson Area Hotels. Also consider Payson Area Cabins as well as Payson Area Bed and Breakfasts.

Bear Canyon Lake Video.

More Information.

Chevelon/Heber Ranger Districts
P.O. Box 968, Overgaard, AZ 85933
(928) 535-4481