Attractions and Places To See in Prescott National Forest - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see in Prescott National Forest span over 1.25 million acres in north-central Arizona, featuring diverse landscapes from pine-clad mountains to desert environments. The region offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, historical exploration, and cultural enrichment. Visitors can explore numerous lakes, historical sites, and archaeological features. The forest provides a variety of experiences for those interested in outdoor activities and cultural heritage.
Best attractions and places to see in Prescott National Forest
- The most popular attractions is Thumb Butte Trail, a trail that offers panoramic views from a distinctive volcanic formation. It is a popular hike with interpretive signs detailing geology, ecology, and history.
- Another must-see spot is Granite Basin Lake, a small reservoir nestled at the foot of the Granite Mountains. It offers various trails around the reservoir for exploration.
- Visitors also love Upper Goldwater Lake, a lake known for fishing, hiking, and picnicking. It is a dog and kid-friendly spot with playgrounds and amenities.
- Prescott National Forest is known for its diverse landscapes, including pine-clad mountains, lakes, and historical sites. Visitors can explore natural features, cultural landmarks, and recreational opportunities across its vast area.
- The attractions in Prescott National Forest are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 10 upvotes and over 10 photos shared.
Last updated: August 3, 2026
Thumb Butte Trail
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
19 Hotshot Memorial
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Upper Goldwater Lake
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Granite Basin Lake
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Prescott Viewpoint
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions in Prescott National Forest.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Prescott National Forest
Other adventures in Prescott National Forest
Tips from the Community
Beautiful pictures and a very beautiful area 😉
0
0
Thumb Butte Day-Use Area and Trails detailed description, facilities and fees as of August 2024, courtesy of the Bradshaw Ranger District.
4
0
You can find many tours of this area in my published list. The Thumb Butte Trail #33 featured in this highlight has some additional noteworthy features. The East side of the loop is paved and one of the continuously steepest areas of the entire Prescott National Forest with an incline of ~714 feet elevation gain per mile with 14-21% grades, if I calculated correctly. Multiple benches along the way offer scenic overlooks and a break for those needing to catch their breath. So, it is excellent for both uphill and downhill training exercise. At the top you can also explore a brief spur to ascend a little further, but only during the part of the year, when falcons are not nesting near the peak. The West side of the loop is mostly gravel and rocks, and being longer offers a gentler set of grades. Between the two sections at the top lies another brief out and back spur with the best views of Prescott toward the South on this loop. Enjoy!
3
0
Granite Basin Lake is a small reservoir at the foot of the towering Granite Mountain. There are a bunch of different trails around the reservoir that break off in different directions, and those paths are a lot less visited than the lake itself.
0
0
Named after the mayor of Prescott between 1879 and 1927, this lake provides a very peaceful setting with a trail on the southern bank where you can enjoy views along the way. There are plenty of opportunities to catch sight of wildlife, such as eagles and other birds, in this area.
0
0
Granite Basin Lake is a small reservoir at the foot of the towering Granite Mountain. There are a bunch of different trails around the reservoir that break off in different directions, and those paths are a lot less visited than the lake itself.
0
0
Goldwater Lake is a great place to relax and enjoy serene natural surroundings. Bald eagles can sometimes be spotted here. It's dog, and kid-friendly spot, with playgrounds on site to keep the kids entertained. Activities like fishing, hiking, and picnicking make Goldwater Lake an ideal place for outdoor recreation. There are bathrooms available for public use. The entrance fee is $3 for parking, or $2 if you have a city pass. With its beauty and amenities, Goldwater Lake has something for everyone.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most prominent natural landmarks to explore in Prescott National Forest?
Prescott National Forest is home to several distinctive natural landmarks. You can hike to Thumb Butte Trail, a prominent volcanic formation offering panoramic views of Prescott and the Bradshaw Mountains. Another notable feature is Granite Mountain, known for its challenging climbs and expansive forest views. The forest also features picturesque lakes like Lynx Lake, Watson Lake, and Upper Goldwater Lake, each offering unique recreational opportunities.
Are there any historical or cultural sites within Prescott National Forest?
Yes, Prescott National Forest is rich in history. You can discover ancient Native American rock art at the Petroglyphs site, which showcases intricate designs carved centuries ago. The forest also contains archaeological sites like rock shelters, cliff dwellings, and pueblos, indicating human occupation for thousands of years. Additionally, you can find remnants of historic homesteads and the 19 Hotshot Memorial, honoring fallen firefighters.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the attractions in Prescott National Forest?
The area around Prescott National Forest attractions offers a wide range of outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding on over 950 miles of trails. Lakes like Lynx Lake and Watson Lake are perfect for fishing, boating, kayaking, and birdwatching. For specific hiking routes, explore options like the Thumb Butte Trail Loop or Lynx Lake Trail loop, which you can find more about in the Hiking in Prescott National Forest guide.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities available?
Absolutely! Many areas in Prescott National Forest are great for families. Upper Goldwater Lake is particularly family-friendly, offering fishing, hiking, picnicking, and playgrounds. Lynx Lake Recreation Area also provides a two-mile lakeshore trail, picnic areas, and boat rentals. The Petroglyphs trail is an accessible and educational experience for all ages, showcasing ancient rock art.
Where can I find trails for running in Prescott National Forest?
Prescott National Forest offers numerous trails suitable for running, catering to various difficulty levels. Popular options include the Thumb Butte Trail run loop, Goldwater Lakes trail run loop, and the Lynx Lake Trail loop run. For more detailed information and a wider selection of routes, refer to the Running Trails in Prescott National Forest guide.
What are the options for water activities in the forest?
The forest features several lakes ideal for water activities. Lynx Lake is excellent for fishing, electric motor boating, and birdwatching. Watson Lake, with its unique granite Dells, is perfect for kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, and fishing. Upper Goldwater Lake offers non-motorized boating and fishing in a quieter setting. The Verde River also provides opportunities for rafting, kayaking, tubing, and swimming.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners?
Yes, Prescott National Forest has several easy hiking trails. The Thumb Butte Trail Loop is considered an easy hike, as is the Lynx Lake Trail loop. Another accessible option is the Salida Gulch Trail. You can find more easy routes and detailed information in the Easy hikes in Prescott National Forest guide.
What is the Prescott Circle Trail?
The Prescott Circle Trail is a significant 56-mile loop that encircles the City of Prescott, jointly managed by the city and the forest. It is accessible from 15 trailheads and is suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and even multi-day backpacking, offering a comprehensive way to experience the surrounding landscapes.
Can I go rock climbing or bouldering in Prescott National Forest?
Yes, Prescott National Forest offers diverse opportunities for rock climbing and bouldering. Areas like Thumb Butte, Granite Mountain, and Groom Creek Boulders are popular spots for climbers of various skill levels, with Granite Mountain being known for its challenging multi-pitch climbs.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions in Prescott National Forest?
Visitors frequently praise the scenic beauty and diverse recreational opportunities. For instance, the Thumb Butte Trail is loved for its panoramic views and educational interpretive signs. Upper Goldwater Lake is appreciated for its peaceful setting, wildlife spotting (including bald eagles), and family-friendly amenities like playgrounds. The intricate Native American rock art at the Petroglyphs site also captivates many visitors.
Are there any specific fees or permits required for visiting certain attractions?
Some popular areas may have fees. For example, there is a $5 parking fee to access the trailhead for Thumb Butte Trail. Upper Goldwater Lake has an entrance fee of $3 for parking, or $2 with a city pass. For dispersed camping, it is generally allowed in many parts of the forest, though some restrictions apply in popular areas like the Prescott Basin.
Most popular routes in Prescott National Forest
Most popular attractions in Prescott National Forest
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
