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

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

  • Wine Tour from Sedona to four Verde Valley Vineyards in Luxury Transportation

    Our tour starts off by picking you up anywhere in Sedona, resort, motel or private home, in a custom Turtle Top tour coach, custom Mercedes Benz Sprinter or Ford Expedition depending on your tour size. We will go to 3 to 4 of the best local wineries. You will receive discounts on tastings
    Our tour starts off by picking you up anywhere in Sedona, resort, motel or private home, in a custom Turtle Top tour coach, custom Mercedes Benz Sprinter or Ford Expedition depending on your tour size. We will go to 3 to 4 of the best local wineries. You will receive discounts on tastings and bottles of wine, at some of the wineries. You may bring your own alcoholic (or nonalcoholic) beverages with you on the bus. At one of the wineries, we will have a picnic, outside next to the grapevines or inside. The picnic is served on linens, it includes your own personal charcuterie tray. This tray includes French bread, gourmet cheeses, hard salami, olive oil with balsamic vinegar, grapes, nuts, and chocolates, for each individual person on the tour. At one of the award-winning wineries, we will be touring the production facility and barrel room. There we will discuss the wine-making process and what it takes to make a cluster of grapes into an award-winning bottle of wine. Lots of smiles!

    Private Arizona Wine Tasting Tour, A Divine Vine

    We specialize in creating FUN-filled ELEVATED experiences. Our guides pride themselves in making sure you really enjoy your day. Enjoy the delicious wine or beer of Arizona without the hassle of designating a driver. Our fun local knowledgeable guide will show you around the vineyard and w
    We specialize in creating FUN-filled ELEVATED experiences. Our guides pride themselves in making sure you really enjoy your day. Enjoy the delicious wine or beer of Arizona without the hassle of designating a driver. Our fun local knowledgeable guide will show you around the vineyard and will even be your personal photographer for the day! Our tours are customized to you, so you get to set the time. All tours are PRIVATE, so once we pick you up, we are off to the vineyards! This will be one of the best tours you do in the Sedona area. Our passion is to pamper you and create a memorable day. You will visit 3 to 4 vineyards or breweries. The choice is yours. Book now to reserve your next wine/beer tasting tour.

    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

  • 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

  • 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.

  • 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

  • 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

  • Grape Train Escape: Wine Tasting and Verde Canyon Railroad Adventure

    Savor the flavors of the diverse vineyards of Arizona's Verde Valley and beyond. The Verde Canyon Railroad's Grape Train Escape treats passengers to select wines from the Southwest accompanied by specialty cheeses and hors d'oeuvres while winemakers discuss earache wineries terroir and

    Savor the flavors of the diverse vineyards of Arizona's Verde Valley and beyond. The Verde Canyon Railroad's Grape Train Escape treats passengers to select wines from the Southwest accompanied by specialty cheeses and hors d'oeuvres while winemakers discuss earache wineries terroir and techniques.

  • Wine train experience: Sample the wines of Arizona's Verde Valley and beyond
  • Onboard Southwest winemakers provide insights into technique and terror
  • Includes pairings of specialty cheeses and hors d'oeuvres
  • Small-group experience (maximum nine guests).

  • Northern Arizona Private Wine Tour south of Sedona - Verde Valley Wineries

    Tour Sedona’s Verde Valley wineries on this private wine tour in Sedona. You and your group (max 14) will be driven in a luxury limo- think Mercedes Benz Sprinter or Ford Transit- so no one needs to worry about logistics or driving. You’ll visit three vineyards, where tastings are inclu

    Tour Sedona’s Verde Valley wineries on this private wine tour in Sedona. You and your group (max 14) will be driven in a luxury limo- think Mercedes Benz Sprinter or Ford Transit- so no one needs to worry about logistics or driving. You’ll visit three vineyards, where tastings are included in the price. Lunch is also included, so you can relax and enjoy this trip with everything taken care of for you.

  • Enjoy a half day tour departing from your hotel with drop off at the end
  • Wine tasting fees are included with this price- three per person
  • Tailor the tastings to your preference
  • Enjoy lunch at Merkin Vineyards Tasting Room and Osteria

  • MORE THINGS TO DO OUTDOORS IN PRESCOTT