Things to do in Prescott: Outdoor Adventures Await
Outdoor Adventures Await in Prescott, Arizona
Nestled among Ponderosa pine forests in central Arizona, Prescott offers endless outdoor recreation and exploration opportunities. Desert Wolf Tours says that Prescott is an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventurers with its mild climate, stunning scenery, and wealth of hiking trails, lakes, and historic sites.
For hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, Prescott is a true paradise. The Prescott National Forest, surrounding the city, boasts over 400 miles of trails ranging from easy nature walks to challenging treks amid rocky outcroppings and alpine scenery. One popular route is the Granite Mountain Trail, a 6-mile loop with gorgeous Granite Basin Lake and Granite Mountain vistas. Thumb Butte, a compact 1.8-mile hike, rewards with 360-degree views from its distinctive summit.
Water sports fans will find plenty to love as well. Lynx Lake, located just outside Prescott, offers fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and swimming in its calm waters. Watson Lake is another scenic spot for boating and fishing while viewing the iconic Granite Dells rock formations. Adventurous types can even try waterfall hiking to places like Lynx Creek Ruin.
When you need a break from outdoor pursuits, Prescott’s lively downtown beckons with shops, restaurants, museums, and historical sites. The centerpiece is the Yavapai County Courthouse Plaza, where the famous “Whiskey Row, ” lined with bars and saloons, harkens back to Prescott’s Wild West roots. Check out the Smoki Museum to learn about the region’s Native American heritage and cultures.
To taste the Old West, attend Arizona’s oldest rodeo, the World’s Oldest Rodeo, held every July. This rough-and-tumble tradition has taken place annually since 1888. The surrounding Frontier Days celebration includes parades, dances, food, and street entertainment.
Outdoor concerts and events are popular here as well. The annual Whiskey Off-Road Mountain Bike Event draws thousands for an epic three-day fat tire festival in May. Summer concerts on the beach at Watson Lake are a beloved tradition.
Don’t miss exploring Prescott’s gold mining past at the Sharlot Hall Museum or touring the eerily preserved ruins of the Yavapai-Apache Nation’s ancient pueblos at Tuzigoot National Monument just outside the city.
With its judicious blend of outdoor adventures, Wild West history, and cultural attractions, Prescott makes for an unforgettable Southwestern getaway. From hiking and boating to rodeos and mining lore, this lively yet laid-back city has something for everyone seeking an escape from Arizona’s iconic landscapes.
