Upper Lake Mary Near Flagstaff Arizona

Originally written by Tony Subia

Reviewed and updated by AZ Leisure Staff Writers on September 5, 2026

Boating, Fishing & Outdoor Recreation

Upper Lake Mary is a scenic high-country reservoir about 12 miles southeast of Flagstaff in the Coconino National Forest. The largest of Flagstaff's twin lakes, Upper Lake Mary is popular for power boating, water skiing, fishing, kayaking, canoeing and wildlife viewing. Its long shoreline winds through ponderosa pine forest and open meadows, with views toward the San Francisco Peaks. Lake levels fluctuate considerably with snowmelt and rainfall, so visitors planning to launch a boat should check current conditions before making the trip.

• Why Visit Upper Lake Mary
• Things To Do
• Best Time To Visit
• Water Levels, Access & Fees
• Fishing
• Boating & Camping
• Map & Directions
• FAQ

Upper Lake Mary is a long, narrow reservoir at an elevation of roughly 6,800 feet. Motorized boats, sailboats, kayaks, canoes and paddle craft share the lake, making it one of the Flagstaff area's most versatile boating destinations. Its high-country setting generally provides much cooler summer conditions than Arizona's lower deserts. See our Flagstaff Weather Chart for average monthly temperatures when planning your visit.

Why People Enjoy Upper Lake Mary

Upper Lake Mary combines motorized water recreation with fishing, paddling, wildlife viewing and scenic high-country surroundings. Unlike many smaller northern Arizona lakes, there is no motor-size restriction, making it especially popular for power boating and water skiing when water levels permit. Anglers pursue northern pike, walleye, channel catfish, crappie and other species, while the surrounding Lake Mary watershed provides habitat for bald eagles, osprey, elk, deer and waterbirds.

Things To Do At Upper Lake Mary

• Boating & Water Skiing – Enjoy one of northern Arizona’s best lakes for motorized boating, with open water ideal for water skiing and cruising.
• Fishing – Target northern pike, channel catfish, crappie, and stocked trout from shore or boat.
• Kayaking & Paddleboarding – Explore the lake’s long shoreline and quiet coves for a more peaceful water experience.
• Picnicking & Day Use Areas – Take advantage of picnic tables, ramadas, and lakeside grills for family outings.
• Wildlife Viewing & Birdwatching – Watch for bald eagles, osprey, waterfowl, elk, and deer in the surrounding habitat.
• Scenic Drives & Photography – Travel along Lake Mary Road for panoramic views of the lake and nearby peaks.
• Cycling & Hiking Nearby – Enjoy road cycling and nearby forest trails throughout the surrounding high-country terrain.

Best Time To Visit Upper Lake Mary

• Spring: A good time for fishing, birdwatching, and quieter lake visits as temperatures begin to warm.
• Summer: Peak season for boating, water skiing, kayaking, camping, and escaping warmer desert temperatures.
• Fall: Cooler weather, scenic drives, and fewer crowds make this a pleasant time to visit.
• Winter: Access and conditions can vary, but the lake area can be scenic during colder months when roads are clear.

Upper Lake Mary Water Levels, Access & Fees

Upper Lake Mary is open year-round, although facilities, boat-launch conditions and seasonal services can vary. Day-use fees are generally charged at developed recreation sites during the warmer high-use season. Because the reservoir depends heavily on precipitation and snowmelt, its water level can change substantially from year to year. Low water can make launching trailered boats difficult, so boaters should check current lake and ramp conditions before traveling.

For current access, fees and recreation-site information, check the Lake Mary Recreation Corridor and the latest Arizona Game and Fish fishing report.

Fishing At Upper Lake Mary

Upper Lake Mary offers one of the more diverse warmwater fisheries in the Flagstaff area. Northern pike and walleye are two of the lake's better-known game fish, while channel catfish, crappie and other species are also present. Arizona Game and Fish reported northern pike, walleye and some bass being caught during the low-water conditions of summer 2026. Fishing is available from shore and by boat, although changing water levels can affect shoreline access and boat launching. Anglers should review current Arizona fishing regulations before visiting.

Boating, Camping & Amenities At Upper Lake Mary

At full pool, Upper Lake Mary has a surface area of approximately 954 acres and stretches about 5.7 miles from end to end, according to a 2026 U.S. Geological Survey study. There is no motor-size restriction on the lake, and developed access includes paved boat ramps along with picnic tables, ramadas, barbecue grills and toilets. Actual usable lake area and boat-launch conditions vary considerably with water level.

Developed camping is available nearby at Lakeview Campground and Pine Grove Campground, while Canyon Vista Campground is located closer to Lower Lake Mary. Additional camping and outdoor recreation can be found near Mormon Lake and Ashurst Lake. Campground operating seasons and services vary, so check current Coconino National Forest or Recreation.gov information before visiting.

Map & Directions To Upper Lake Mary

From Flagstaff, travel southeast on Lake Mary Road, also known as Forest Highway 3. Continue past Lower Lake Mary for approximately 12 miles from Flagstaff to reach Upper Lake Mary and its developed recreation areas. The route is paved and provides access to the Upper Lake Mary boat launch, the Narrows area and nearby campgrounds.

Upper Lake Mary FAQ

Where is Upper Lake Mary located?

Upper Lake Mary is located about 12 miles southeast of Flagstaff, Arizona, along Lake Mary Road in the Coconino National Forest.

Can you boat on Upper Lake Mary?

Yes. Upper Lake Mary allows motorized boating with no motor-size restriction and is popular for power boating, water skiing, kayaking, canoeing and other forms of paddling. Boat-launch conditions depend on the lake's current water level.

What fish are in Upper Lake Mary?

Upper Lake Mary supports northern pike, walleye, channel catfish, crappie and other warmwater fish, with some trout also present. Fishing conditions and species activity vary by season and water level.

Can you camp near Upper Lake Mary?

Yes. Nearby developed camping includes Lakeview Campground and Pine Grove Campground, with Canyon Vista Campground closer to Lower Lake Mary. Additional camping is available elsewhere in the Flagstaff area.

How large is Upper Lake Mary?

A 2026 U.S. Geological Survey study measured Upper Lake Mary at approximately 954 surface acres at full pool and about 5.7 miles long. The actual surface area varies significantly with precipitation, snowmelt and water use.

Does Upper Lake Mary have boat ramps?

Yes. Developed boat-launch facilities are available at Upper Lake Mary. Because lake levels fluctuate significantly, low-water conditions can make launching trailered boats difficult.

Is Upper Lake Mary open year-round?

The Lake Mary Recreation Corridor is open year-round, but seasonal services, fees, campground availability and boat-launch conditions can change. Check current conditions before visiting.

How do you get to Upper Lake Mary from Flagstaff?

From Flagstaff, take Lake Mary Road southeast for approximately 12 miles, passing Lower Lake Mary before reaching Upper Lake Mary and its developed recreation areas.

More Information

Check current fees, recreation-site status, road conditions and lake access before visiting.

Flagstaff Ranger District
5075 N. Highway 89
Flagstaff, Arizona 86004
928-526-0866

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