Prescott Arizona Hiking Trails & Best Hikes

Originally written by Tony Subia

Updated by AZ Leisure Staff Writers on August 27, 2026

Prescott, Arizona is surrounded by an extensive network of hiking trails through ponderosa pine forest, granite boulders, mountain terrain and scenic lake country. Trails range from easy walks beside Watson and Lynx lakes to steeper climbs around Thumb Butte, Granite Mountain and the Bradshaw Mountains.

The City of Prescott maintains a growing Mile-High Trail System, while Prescott National Forest adds many miles of additional hiking, mountain biking and equestrian routes. Popular areas include Thumb Butte, the Granite Dells, Watson Lake, Lynx Lake, Goldwater Lake, Granite Basin and the 56-mile Prescott Circle Trail.

• Best Prescott Hiking Trails
• Easy Hikes
• Moderate Hikes
• Lake & Granite Dells Trails
• Multi-Use Trails
• Best Time To Hike
• Hiking Safety & Tips
• Parking & Trail Fees
• FAQ

Best Hiking Trails Near Prescott Arizona

Prescott offers hiking for nearly every ability level, from short paved nature trails and relatively flat rail-trails to steeper mountain routes. Trail conditions, allowable uses and parking requirements vary, so check current City of Prescott or Prescott National Forest information before starting your hike.

Thumb Butte Trail #33

Thumb Butte Trail #33 is one of the most popular hikes in Prescott National Forest. The approximately 2.1-mile route is reserved for hikers and climbs through ponderosa pine forest to scenic viewpoints from the slopes of Thumb Butte. Portions of the trail are paved, but the climb is still moderately strenuous in places.

The trailhead is about 3.4 miles west of downtown Prescott along Gurley Street and Thumb Butte Road. From higher viewpoints, hikers can see Prescott, the Bradshaw Mountains and surrounding high-country terrain.

Lynx Lake Shore Trail #311

Lynx Lake Shore Trail #311 provides an easy lakeside hiking option in the Lynx Lake Recreation Area. The route is approximately 2.3 miles and circles much of Lynx Lake through pine forest and shoreline scenery. The western portion includes paved accessible trail segments.

Trail access is available from the north and south shores of Lynx Lake and from nearby Forest Service recreation areas.

Goldwater Lake Trails

Goldwater Lake is surrounded by pine forest and connects with several hiking routes, including Goldwater Lake Trail #396. Trails can be combined into hikes of different lengths through forest terrain around Upper and Lower Goldwater lakes.

Goldwater Lake is about four miles south of Prescott and also offers fishing, canoeing, kayaking and picnicking. City parking fees currently apply at the developed lake recreation area.

Granite Basin & Granite Mountain Trails

Granite Basin northwest of Prescott provides access to numerous hiking trails beneath Granite Mountain. Routes range from relatively gentle recreation-area trails to more strenuous hikes entering Granite Mountain Wilderness, where granite boulders, pine-oak woodland and mountain views dominate the landscape.

Metate Trailhead is one of the primary access points for Granite Mountain Wilderness. Hikers should choose a specific route and check current Forest Service maps before leaving the trailhead.

Groom Creek Accessible Nature Trail

The Groom Creek Accessible Nature Trail is a short paved nature trail beside the historic Groom Creek Schoolhouse. The approximately 1,500-foot route winds through ponderosa pine forest and includes tactile interpretive signs describing native plants and wildlife.

This is one of the best short Prescott-area trail choices for visitors looking for a gentle forest walk. Accessibility conditions can vary, so visitors with specific mobility requirements should review current facility information before traveling.

Wolf Creek Loop Trail #384

Wolf Creek Loop Trail #384 is a 5.5-mile route through ponderosa pine, oak, granite boulders and riparian vegetation in the upper Hassayampa River basin. The Forest Service rates the trail easy, although loose rock and eroded sections can make footing more challenging in places.

The trail is shared by hikers, horseback riders, mountain bicyclists, motorcycles and ATVs, so hikers should remain alert for other trail users. Maverick Mountain and Mount Tritle provide scenic backdrops along the route.

Prescott Peavine Trail

The Prescott Peavine Trail follows a former railroad corridor through the Granite Dells near Watson Lake. Its broad, relatively gentle surface makes it popular with hikers, runners, bicyclists and equestrians and provides excellent views of Watson Lake, granite formations and open high-country landscapes.

The Peavine connects with additional routes including the Iron King Trail and several Granite Dells trails, allowing visitors to create hikes of different lengths. City parking fees currently apply at the primary Peavine trailhead.

Little Granite Mountain Trail #37

Little Granite Mountain Trail #37 provides access to high-country terrain west of Prescott and offers broad views toward Granite Mountain, Skull Valley and surrounding mountain country. The natural-surface trail is suitable for hikers and other permitted nonmotorized users.

Access is from the Little Granite Trailhead along Iron Springs Road. There is no drinking water or garbage service at the trailhead, so hikers should bring adequate water and pack out everything they bring in.

Lynx Creek Ruin Trail #301

Lynx Creek Ruin Trail #301 is a short interpretive trail through pinyon and juniper woodland to an observation platform overlooking a prehistoric archaeological site. The current Forest Service trail guide lists the route at approximately 0.5 mile and rates it easy.

The archaeological site is protected. Stay on designated trails and viewing areas and leave artifacts and cultural resources undisturbed.

Pioneer Park & Brownlow Trails

Pioneer Park in northwest Prescott provides access to running and hiking trails that connect with the larger Brownlow trail system. The area is useful for hikers who want flexible route lengths without traveling far from developed parts of Prescott.

Pioneer Park also includes restrooms, sheltered picnic tables and other recreation facilities. Parking is currently free.

Salida Gulch Trail #95

Salida Gulch Trail #95 is a moderate loop in the Lynx Creek area that passes through varied vegetation ranging from prickly pear cactus to ponderosa pine and riparian willows. The Forest Service currently lists the route at approximately 4.2 miles.

Cultural resources and rock art in the area are protected. Observe them without touching, tracing or disturbing the surrounding site.

Choosing The Right Prescott Hiking Trail

• Easy lake walks: Lynx Lake Shore Trail and portions of the Peavine Trail.
• Short accessible nature walk: Groom Creek Accessible Nature Trail.
• Classic Prescott hike: Thumb Butte Trail #33.
• Granite Dells scenery: Peavine Trail and trails around Watson Lake.
• Forest loop: Wolf Creek Loop Trail #384.
• Archaeological interest: Lynx Creek Ruin Trail.
• Long-distance challenge: Sections of the Prescott Circle Trail.
• Mountain wilderness: Granite Basin and Granite Mountain Wilderness trails.

Best Time To Hike In Prescott Arizona

• Spring: Mild daytime temperatures and wildflowers make this one of the best hiking seasons.
• Summer: Cooler than Arizona's lower deserts, but start early and watch for afternoon monsoon thunderstorms.
• Fall: Cooler temperatures and changing vegetation create excellent trail conditions.
• Winter: Many lower trails remain usable during dry periods, but snow, ice and freezing temperatures can affect higher or shaded routes.

Prescott Trail Parking & Recreation Fees

Some Prescott trailheads and recreation areas require parking or day-use fees while others are free. City fee areas currently include Goldwater Lake, Watson Lake, Willow Lake, the Peavine Trail and Constellation Trail. Prescott National Forest also charges day-use fees at selected recreation sites including Thumb Butte, Groom Creek Nature Trail, Lynx Ruin and several Lynx Lake and Granite Basin locations.

Fees and accepted passes can change, so check the current City of Prescott or Recreation.gov information before traveling rather than relying on older printed rates.

Prescott Hiking Safety & Trail Tips

• Carry more water than you expect to need, even during cool weather.
• Start summer hikes early and watch for monsoon thunderstorms and lightning.
• Check current trail, fire and weather conditions before leaving.
• Stay on designated trails, particularly near archaeological sites and fragile Granite Dells terrain.
• Yield appropriately on multi-use trails and expect hikers, bicycles, horses or motorized users where permitted.
• Keep dogs leashed wherever required and carry out pet waste.
• Do not disturb archaeological artifacts, petroglyphs or historic resources.
• Carry a trail map or downloaded offline map rather than relying entirely on cellular service.

Plan A Prescott Hiking Getaway

Prescott's trail system is extensive enough to support anything from a short morning hike to a multi-day outdoor vacation. Combine hiking with Prescott camping, Prescott lakes, local attractions and historic downtown.

For overnight accommodations, compare Prescott cabin rentals, bed and breakfasts and inns, and Prescott RV parks.

Prescott Arizona Hiking FAQ

What Are The Best Hiking Trails In Prescott Arizona?

Popular Prescott hikes include Thumb Butte Trail #33, the Prescott Peavine Trail, Lynx Lake trails, Granite Basin trails, Salida Gulch and sections of the Prescott Circle Trail.

What Is The Most Popular Hike In Prescott?

Thumb Butte Trail #33 is one of the most popular hikes in Prescott National Forest. The approximately 2.1-mile route climbs through ponderosa pine forest to scenic viewpoints.

Are There Easy Hiking Trails In Prescott?

Yes. Easy options include portions of the Peavine Trail, Lynx Lake Shore Trail, Lynx Creek Ruin Trail and the short Groom Creek Accessible Nature Trail.

Where Can I Hike Near Watson Lake?

The Peavine Trail, Iron King Trail and numerous Granite Dells routes provide hiking near Watson Lake with views of the lake and surrounding granite formations.

Are There Hiking Trails Near Lynx Lake?

Yes. Lynx Lake Recreation Area includes the Lynx Lake Shore Trail, Lynx Creek Ruin Trail, Salida Gulch and connections to several additional forest trails.

Can You Hike Thumb Butte?

Yes. Thumb Butte Trail #33 is a hikers-only route of approximately 2.1 miles. It is one of the best-known hikes near downtown Prescott.

Are Prescott Trails Open To Mountain Bikes?

Many Prescott trails allow mountain bicycles, but not all do. Thumb Butte Trail #33 is hikers only, and specific trail-use rules should be checked before starting.

Are Horses Allowed On Prescott Trails?

Many multi-use Prescott and Forest Service trails allow equestrian use, while others prohibit horses. Check current trail signs and maps for the route you plan to use.

Do Prescott Hiking Trails Charge A Fee?

Some trailheads and recreation areas charge parking or day-use fees, while others are free. Check current City of Prescott or Prescott National Forest information before traveling.

What Is The Best Season For Hiking In Prescott?

Spring and fall generally provide the mildest hiking conditions. Summer is also popular, but hikers should start early and watch for afternoon monsoon thunderstorms.

Can You Hike In Prescott During Winter?

Yes. Many trails can be hiked during dry winter periods, although snow and ice may affect shaded, higher-elevation or north-facing routes.

How Long Is The Prescott Circle Trail?

The Prescott Circle Trail is approximately 56 miles and forms a long-distance route around Prescott using interconnected City and Forest Service trails.

Prescott National Forest
Prescott Hiking Club

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In The Pines Around Prescott