prescott national forest

Seriously, the overlook of the Verde Valley and Sedona red rocks from Mingus Mountain is amazing and not to be missed if you visit the Jerome/Sedona/Cottonwood area...It is a spirit filled view.

There are many trails in the forest for all fitness levels. The elevation is between 5000 and 6500 ft so be prepared. You may get out of breath earlier than normal. What a great way to spend a fall afternoon in the sunshine among the trees.

Thumb Butte Trail 33 has long been my favorite hiking trail in Prescott. Yesterday my wife and I hiked the 3.7 mile Thumb Butte Bypass trail. We started on Trail 326 from the parking lot, but continued going straight to follow Trail 367 which follows along the creek. The trail follows the creek and the road, so you can't get lost, and the scenery is some of the best we have seen in this area. You cross the creek a couple of times and once it looks like you are going up to the road, but then the trail turns back down toward the creek, for about a mile of almost level walking. Turn right onto Trail 392, which in some points is a road, and so again, easy to follow. This portion of a mile or so has some significant uphill but about half is fairly level and 392 seems to go for about a mile and a half. At the top of the hill, Trail 392 intersects with Trail 326 once more and you have about a mile plus of downhill back to the parking lot. By taking the trail in this direction you will get some truly impressive views of Thumb Butte---actually much better than from the more popular Thumb Butte Trail #33. This loop has now become our favorite scenic hike in Prescott. There is a $5.00 parking fee, except on Wednesdays, when it is free to park.

The hiking,riding and biking trails in close proximity to Prescott make it nice for short hikes if you have limited time. Adequate parking at the Williamson Valley Trailhead and the trails were not crowded during the mid-afternoon.

Immense boulders, stately forests, and desert... all of this is contained within or near the Prescott National Forest. It is not far from downtown Prescott to the heart of this often forbidding yet beautiful place. Best to visit in spring. My visit was before 2013 but there is no drop down menu for the actual date.

Come early & bring enough water. Spend the day enjoy the various trails in the area and the views. Locals and tourists are plenty and once you experience the trails you'll see why.

Imagine walking to the pine trees and feeling like you're the only person on earth. This is what it can feel like walking to the National Forest in Prescott. It's's not very far to drive out of town to reach this beautiful area. Don't forget to watch out for snakes summertime because this is the perfect time that they are out. Take lots of water I had, and a long sleeve shirt so you don't get sunburned.

The Prescott National Forest area is a terrific place to spend a morning, afternoon or even all day if you bring food and water. Because it is an arrid cliimate forest, there are very few of the annoying type of insects but plenty of other wildlife such as dear, birds and all sorts of ground and tree climbing squirrels. There trails that are abundant and well marked but can sometimes be confusing due to there being so many so a copy of a trail map well help you stay on course. One of the most enjoyable trails is the one that goes completely around Watson Lake but it has limited shade on the far side of the lake so should be done early or later in the dau. There are multiple breathtaking views at various points around the lake. Another great trail 100% within the forest runs all the way up to Goldwater lake and because it is mostly shaded can be done at any time of the day but care should be taken to ensure you have sufficient driniking water at either hike.

we spent a considerable amount of time hiking the trails tbrought the woods and enjoying the serenity and beauty of the area. if in the area this is something you should visit. It will provide great memories and wonderful pictures for years to come

Took a short hike on trail 307 located about 7 miles outside of Prescott off the Senator Highway. Tall pines,scrub oak, and views. Within minutes I felt as if I had left civilization behind. I will definitely be back for longer hike this summer.

Years ago, When thinking about places to live, I told my husband that my dream house would be on the edge of a forest, so I could walk out my front door and be in nature within a few steps. Well, 5 years later that is exactly what I have and it is the Prescott National Forest! There are hundreds of miles of trails most within the cool forest and shade, but there are areas that are more open with vistas and views. It all depends upon what you want. There are elevation changes of up to 1,000 feet, beautiful rock outcroppings, vistas, waterfalls, creeks and wildlife. This forest offers everything for hikers, bicyclists and horseback riders. The trails are varied with topography, elevation and distance. Some trails are a short loop and others are several miles and they are all connected, so, get a map from one of the outfitter shops such as Hike Shack or Manzanita Outdoors and start walking!!

This is a wonderful forest for hiking, biking, riding your horse. The forest is well maintained and offers respite to those of us who celebrate this wonderful National Forest. We all hope visitors be aware of leaving their fires and their cigarettes unattended.

This is a wonderful hike through the Ponderosa pine forest, with spectacular views of Granite Mountain and Chino Valley from the fire lookout at the top of Spruce Mountain. The elevation requires some adjustment, especially during uphill sections of the ascent.

Miles and miles of trails, from a simple walk of a mile or two to the circle trail that goes for 45 miles around the city. You can hike most of it now and the final few miles that are under construction will be finished this year.

I do believe Prescott is a little spoiled. Or maybe I'm just jealous that I don't live there. Drive 10 min or more in each direction and you will find a lake, a trail, camping, all at your finger tips. I couldn't fit in all in. Its October and in the 70's, perfect weather for all your outdoor activities.