Hike Detail SheetHikesShort Hike

Watson Lake/Northshore Trail (S)

By September 15, 2022 September 2nd, 2025 No Comments
Approx hike distance (miles): 1.5 Area: Prescott, AZ
Accum.  elevation gain (feet): 200 Park Entry Fee: $3/car
Low to high elevation gain: 100 SCAMR All Trails Map: No
Recommended gas donation: $5 Website for reference info: N/A
Unpaved miles: 0 Trailhead GPS Coordinates 34.5902417, -112.4203972
Road Conditions: Good High clearance vehicle req’d: No

Please arrive 10 minutes prior to departure to check -in

Trail Conditions
Maintained Trail: Yes Uneven footing Yes
Steep side drop-offs No Steep Trail: No
Off Trial (scratchy) No Slippery Trail Surfaces: Yes
Use of hands required: Yes Boulder Hopping: No
Difficulty: Strenuous Water Crossings: No
Restrooms at Trailhead: Yes Gloves Required: No

Special Instructions:

This is an out and back hike on the Northshore Trail at Watson Lake. The trail is rocky and can be uneven. Much of the route follows large granite surfaces. Hiking shoes and hiking sticks are required. The views of the Lake and the Granite Dells are spectacular. The pace will be slow due to the uneven trail and time allowed for picture taking. Bring plenty of water and food for a snack.

Directions:

Drive east on E Gurley St for 1.1 miles. Make a slight left onto AZ 89 North. Follow AZ 89 North for 3.6 miles. At the traffic circle, take the first exit onto Watson Lake Park Rd. Parking is in the large parking lot at the top of the hill. Total driving distance is 5.5 miles.