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Watson Lake Dam
This is one of the many, City of Prescott's Trails. They do a good job of maintaining it.
This is a go to trail for us when we have guests in from other states or Phoenix. We consider it one of the prettiest trails in Arizona. I like this trail because it is so diverse, as the photos that follow show. This trail passes through several habitats and follows pretty flowing Granite Creek. Beware... during the summer the water in Granite Creek stinks.
- Miles... 1.7 miles round trip.
- Time... 2 to 3 hours.
- Difficulty... easy.
- Elevation difference... 538
The goal of this hike is the area just below the dam. One can continue on and catch the Peavine trail or turn around and head back a different route indicated on the Google Track Map included.
To find the trail head, from Prescott travel north on 89 toward Chino Valley. Just past the turn off to Watson Lake (1/2 mile) turn right on East Granite Dells Road.
About 1/2 mile on the right is the trail head.
Once on the trail it divides at about a 1/4 mile and I have always preferred to stay left and follow the creek instead of heading uphill. Both routs will take you to the dam.
Trail head
Follow the white dots.
This is a short easy hike, about 1 1/2 miles. Part of the trail traverses boulders and requires that you follow the white dots. So plan on searching for dots painted on rocks. Sort of like following the yellow brick road. Try not to step on them so they last for others.
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Fall is an excellent time to visit this trail.
Off trail creek crossing.
Trail along Granite Creek.
Bridges over small crevasses.
Canyon walls close in and bridges assist hikers.
Nearing the Dam, a lone hiker below.
Trail along the creek.
Granite Creek in the summer, stinky air.
Watson Lake Dam. This is the turn around point.
Google Map
Please forgive errors in grammar or spelling as we type from our phones.
