Prescott Outdoor Activities & Adventures

Surrounded by rugged granite peaks, shimmering lakes, and over 1.25 million acres of the Prescott National Forest, Prescott, Arizona is an outdoor recreation dream.

Whether you want to paddle across Watson Lake’s unique rock formations, hike to panoramic viewpoints, or scale granite cliffs, there’s something for every type of adventurer here. From quiet family outings to challenging wilderness treks, here are the best outdoor things to do in Prescott — plus local tips to make the most of your visit.

Hiking & Trail Running in Prescott

Prescott is home to hundreds of miles of scenic hiking trails for all skill levels. Popular hiking spots include:

  • Thumb Butte Trail – 2.5 miles round trip with sweeping views of Prescott and the Bradshaw Mountains. Best in spring for wildflowers or in fall for cooler hiking temps.
  • Granite Mountain Trail – A moderately challenging climb leading to expansive views of the surrounding forest.
  • Prescott Circle Trail – A 56-mile loop connecting many of Prescott’s top outdoor highlights. Great for section hikes or multi-day backpacking.

At a Glance

Total Loop
56 mi
Prescott Circle Trail
Elevation
~5,200'
City elevation

Trail conditions can change with weather; always check forecasts and bring the 10 essentials.

Lakes & Water Activities

Prescott boasts several picturesque lakes perfect for fishing, boating, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP):

  • Watson Lake – Famous for its granite dells; ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and SUP. Rentals available seasonally at Watson Lake Park.
  • Lynx Lake – Peaceful and pine-shaded with fishing, canoeing, and birdwatching. Boat rentals available at the Lynx Lake Store.
  • Goldwater Lake – Great for a picnic or a relaxing paddle; less crowded than Watson Lake.
  • Granite Basin Lake – A small, serene lake near Granite Mountain with a nearby campground.

Mountain Biking

With trails ranging from flowy singletrack to technical descents, Prescott is a mountain biking hotspot:

  • Brownlow Trail System – Beginner-friendly with smooth, rolling trails.
  • Constellation Trails – Intermediate riding with scenic granite boulders.
  • Prescott Circle Trail – Advanced riders can take on the entire loop or select sections for a challenge.

Local Bike Rentals & Shops

  • High Gear Bike Shop – Rentals, repairs, and trail advice.
  • Prescott Outdoors – Known for bike rentals near the lakes.

Swimming Holes & Creekside Escapes

  • Granite Creek – Flows through Prescott with small wading areas.
  • Perkinsville Road Area – Hidden creeks and shady picnic spots.
  • Verde River (about 45 minutes away) – Great for tubing, swimming, and fishing.

Rock Climbing & Bouldering

Prescott is a climbing paradise with granite walls and boulder fields for all skill levels:

  • Groom Creek Boulders – Over 600 established problems in a shaded pine forest.
  • Thumb Butte – Sport and trad routes with panoramic views from the summit.
  • Granite Mountain – Challenging multi-pitch climbs for experienced climbers.

Local Gear Shops

  • The Hike Shack – Climbing gear, maps, and insider tips.

Best Time of Year for Outdoor Activities in Prescott

Spring

(March–May)
  • Wildflowers
  • Comfortable temps
  • Flowing creeks

Summer

(June–August)
  • Lake activities
  • Morning hikes
  • PM storms (Jul–Aug)

Fall

(September–November)
  • Crisp air
  • Golden leaves
  • Prime hiking/biking

Winter

(December–February)
  • Mild days
  • Occasional snow
  • Quiet trails

BOOK YOUR STAY NOW


FAVORITE OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES IN PRESCOTT

Prescott Ebike Rentals & Tours

Lakeside Tours by Watson Lake on The Peavine and Iron King Trail! If you are looking for something fun to do in Prescott, you have come to the right place. Let our E-bikes take you on an adventure!

Some of Our Reviews:

Lakeside Tours by Watson Lake on The Peavine and Iron King Trail! If you are looking for something fun to do in Prescott, you have come to the right place. Let our E-bikes take you on an adventure!

Some of Our Reviews:
  • The highlight of our trip
  • Bikes are in great condition
  • Great way to experience ebikes
  • Loved the entire experience

2 Hours Water to Wine Kayak Trip from Cottonwood

The perfect mix of outdoor adventure and relaxation, this tour combines a kayaking excursion with wine tasting in Arizona’s Verde Valley. Paddle down the Verde River in a kayak and stop at a vineyard for a sommelier-led tasting. Feel safe with a guide who can offer paddling and safety t

The perfect mix of outdoor adventure and relaxation, this tour combines a kayaking excursion with wine tasting in Arizona’s Verde Valley. Paddle down the Verde River in a kayak and stop at a vineyard for a sommelier-led tasting. Feel safe with a guide who can offer paddling and safety tips, as well as sharing information on the river’s flora and fauna.

  • Combine two fun activities—kayaking and wine-tasting—on this guided tour
  • Enjoy a leisurely paddle along the Verde River—suitable for all abilities
  • Taste wines from Arizona’s premier wine-growing region: the Verde Valley
  • Receive $20 credit to spend at the winery on tastings, snacks, or gifts

  • ATV Rentals in Sedona and Cottonwood

    Adventurous and independent travelers who don't want to be constrained by a guided tour will love this full-day ATV rental. Starting from Sedona or Cottonwood, you'll have your own ATV to use for six hours. You'll be given a map so you know where to go and the itinerary is up to you. Dr

    Adventurous and independent travelers who don't want to be constrained by a guided tour will love this full-day ATV rental. Starting from Sedona or Cottonwood, you'll have your own ATV to use for six hours. You'll be given a map so you know where to go and the itinerary is up to you. Drive to Sycamore Canyon and Sedona Red Rocks, or stop for a hike and a picnic.

  • Fuel, goggles, and helmets will be provided
  • Decide for yourself what you want to see and do
  • Get off the beaten path in the Verde Valley
  • An exciting way to enjoy Arizona's beautiful landscapes

  • 1.5 Hour Horseback Ride

    Wilderness observation and exploration. Explore beautiful Prescott by horseback. Many trails to choose from. Rides for Riders of All Levels - 1.5 hour rides Birthdays - Proposals- Special Occasions

    Full-Day Guided Kayak Fishing Down the N. Verde River from Cottonwood

    Fishing on Arizona's Verde River offers the opportunity to catch some really awesome fish, but if you don't know the best spots to go to, you may come back empty handed. This Verde River Kayak Fishing Full-Day Experience from Cottonwood takes you down river with a guide and in a kayak,

    Fishing on Arizona's Verde River offers the opportunity to catch some really awesome fish, but if you don't know the best spots to go to, you may come back empty handed. This Verde River Kayak Fishing Full-Day Experience from Cottonwood takes you down river with a guide and in a kayak, so you not only get to fish in great spots, but you also get closer to the fish, too.

  • Go on a fun, full-day fishing trip down Arizona's Verde River
  • A perfect activity for avoiding crowds—you'll fish from your own kayak
  • A guide takes you down the river to private river runs, too
  • A kayak and all necessary fishing gear are provided for you

  • Private Off Road Adventure Tours in the Prescott National Forest

    Come see why thousands come to Prescott, and why we loved it so much we made it our permanent home. The beauty here is hard to describe in words, and pictures have a hard time doing it justice. On a guided tour you'll see the most scenic points and views of Prescott, and the beauty of the
    Come see why thousands come to Prescott, and why we loved it so much we made it our permanent home. The beauty here is hard to describe in words, and pictures have a hard time doing it justice. On a guided tour you'll see the most scenic points and views of Prescott, and the beauty of the surrounding area. Ride in the comfort of one of our Hummers as we take off-road trails and visit sites few have the opportunity to experience. from $110.00 Lowest Price Guarantee Check Availability

    Kayak Tour on the Verde River

    Immerse yourself in Arizona’s beautiful scenery—and enjoy a new way to explore—on this family-friendly kayaking tour along the Verde River. Pick between several departure times, grab your safety gear, and set off in a shuttle to the river with just a small group for company. This beginn

    Immerse yourself in Arizona’s beautiful scenery—and enjoy a new way to explore—on this family-friendly kayaking tour along the Verde River. Pick between several departure times, grab your safety gear, and set off in a shuttle to the river with just a small group for company. This beginner-friendly tour includes a relaxing paddle down a 3.1-mile (5-kilometer) stretch of this river, and the chance to take on gentle mini rapids.

  • Admire the lush scenery along the Verde River from the water’s edge
  • This small-group tour guarantees hands-on guidance and training
  • Safety gear, inflatable or hard kayaks, and shuttle transit included
  • Get out in nature and enjoy a fun and lively way to explore.

  • Granite Mountain Guides

    Granite Mountain Guides was established on the foundations of providing exceptional instruction to climbers that are just learning the craft. From there it expanded into how we can best serve the local community even more by promoting wonderful areas for all to experience on our guided tri
    Granite Mountain Guides was established on the foundations of providing exceptional instruction to climbers that are just learning the craft. From there it expanded into how we can best serve the local community even more by promoting wonderful areas for all to experience on our guided trips. All of our Instructors are well-qualified American Mountain Guides Association certified in their specific terrain. Granite Mountain Guides can fulfill your needs and help you achieve your goals.

    Copper Canyon Hummer Tour

    Set off on a thrilling 60-minute off-road adventure through Arizona’s wild backcountry with the Copper Canyon Tour. Departing from Prescott Square, this guided Hummer excursion takes you deep into Copper Basin via RD#53, where a mix of excitement and natural beauty awaits.

    PRIVATE Guided River kayaking on the Verde River Cottonwood, AZ (Private Group)

    Explore Arizona’s Verde River with a dedicated guide on this private kayak tour. Depart from a designated pickup point in a UTV and enjoy an off-road adventure on the way to the launch point. Sit atop your kayak and enjoy a guided tour through the river, taking in the landscapes along t

    Explore Arizona’s Verde River with a dedicated guide on this private kayak tour. Depart from a designated pickup point in a UTV and enjoy an off-road adventure on the way to the launch point. Sit atop your kayak and enjoy a guided tour through the river, taking in the landscapes along the way. Enjoy stops at several water holes to swim and cool off before heading back.

  • Enjoy the views of the Verde River on a kayak
  • See more than you would if you explore on your own
  • All necessary kayaking equipment is provided
  • A private tour ensures a personalized experience

  • Guided Horseback Tour only 30 mins from Sedona

    Go horseback riding in Arizona during this small-group tour in Cottonwood, approximately 30 minutes from Sedona. Meet your guide and set out on a tour through the Alcantara Vineyards. Cross the water where the Verde River and Oak Creek meet, and get up close to see ancient Apache ruins.

    Go horseback riding in Arizona during this small-group tour in Cottonwood, approximately 30 minutes from Sedona. Meet your guide and set out on a tour through the Alcantara Vineyards. Cross the water where the Verde River and Oak Creek meet, and get up close to see ancient Apache ruins. Admire panoramic mountain views during this scenic excursion. No prior experience is necessary.

  • Discover Arizona by horseback tour
  • Ride through scenic vineyards
  • See historic sites during the tour
  • All experience levels welcome

  • Prescott City Highlights Tour with Museum Entry

  • Step back in time at the Sharlot Hall Museum and explore Arizona's past
  • Discover Prescott's Downtown Plaza with its eclectic shops, galleries, and bars
  • Learn about Prescott from a local whose knowledge you won't find in any books
  • Stroll through Whiskey Row an
  • Step back in time at the Sharlot Hall Museum and explore Arizona's past
  • Discover Prescott's Downtown Plaza with its eclectic shops, galleries, and bars
  • Learn about Prescott from a local whose knowledge you won't find in any books
  • Stroll through Whiskey Row and experience Prescott's Wild West heritage
  • Relax by Watson Lake or take a scenic walk along the Flume Trail

  • Prescott Night Hike and Stargazing

    This night hike isn’t just a walk in the dark, it’s a private, guided journey into Prescott's most magical hours. Led by expert naturalists, our guides created a tour that combines breathtaking sunset views, unmatched stargazing in the dark skies of Prescott, and engaging wildlife explorat
    This night hike isn’t just a walk in the dark, it’s a private, guided journey into Prescott's most magical hours. Led by expert naturalists, our guides created a tour that combines breathtaking sunset views, unmatched stargazing in the dark skies of Prescott, and engaging wildlife exploration using UV flashlights to spot glowing scorpions. You’ll hike in peaceful wilderness areas far from crowds, enjoying cooler evening temperatures and the quiet solitude of the high desert at night. This is Prescott at its most serene, mysterious, and awe-inspiring. Let us take you on an unforgettable experience you won’t find anywhere else.

    Prescott Private Day Tour with Transportation

    Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Prescott, Arizona, in a single day. Start at the Sharlot Hall Museum, where Arizona's frontier past comes alive through engaging exhibits and historic buildings. Next, wander through Whiskey Row, a lively stretch filled with storied saloons
    Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Prescott, Arizona, in a single day. Start at the Sharlot Hall Museum, where Arizona's frontier past comes alive through engaging exhibits and historic buildings. Next, wander through Whiskey Row, a lively stretch filled with storied saloons and shops that echo the Wild West. The journey continues at the Museum of Indigenous People, showcasing the art and culture of the Southwest's Native tribes. Next, we'll visit the NOCO District’s eclectic shops and art galleries. Finally, we'll conclude your tour with the serene beauty of Watson Lake, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a scenic hike along the Flume Trail.
  • - Explore Prescott’s history at the Sharlot Hall Museum and Whiskey Row
  • - Visit the Museum of Indigenous People for Native American cultural insights
  • - Enjoy the creative energy of the NOCO District with its unique shops
  • - Relax at Watson Lake, with options for hiking and scenic views

  • MORE THINGS TO DO OUTDOORS IN PRESCOTT