The Prescott Circle Trail is a 54-mile loop encircling the town of Prescott, Arizona, offering a unique "mini thru-hike" experience through ponderosa pine forests, granite boulder fields, and high desert terrain. Ranging from 5,140 to 6,990 feet in elevation with about 6,000 feet of cumulative gain, this trail is ideal for backpackers seeking a challenging 2-3 day adventure without committing to a longer expedition. The route showcases the stunning Granite Dells at Watson Lake, passes three scenic reservoirs (Watson, Willow, and Goldwater Lakes), and provides views of Granite Mountain and Thumb Butte. As a multi-use trail shared with mountain bikers and equestrians, it sees moderate traffic but offers a surprisingly remote feel despite passing within three miles of downtown Prescott. Counterclockwise is the preferred direction, starting with the scenic eastern forested sections at higher elevations before descending through more exposed terrain on the western side.
No permit is required for hiking the Prescott Circle Trail. Parking fees apply at most trailheads: City of Prescott trailheads charge $3 per vehicle at kiosks (free on Wednesdays), or you can purchase an annual pass online. Prescott National Forest trailheads require either a day-use fee or an America the Beautiful/Interagency Pass. For overnight backpacking trips, leave a visible note on your dashboard explaining how long you'll be away, as overnight parking is generally not allowed at City trailheads but is permitted at National Forest trailheads with proper notification.
Camping is restricted in the Prescott Basin area—you cannot camp wherever you want. Camping and campfires are only allowed at designated dispersed campsites (designated by signs, limited to 300 feet of specified forest roads) or at developed campgrounds. The three established campgrounds along the trail are Watson Lake, Yavapai (Granite Basin), and White Spar. Reservations are recommended through Recreation.gov, though first-come-first-served sites are available. Camping is limited to 14 days in any 30-day period on the National Forest (7 days in the Prescott Basin proper). Campfires are permitted only in provided fire rings; use only dead and down wood. During fire restrictions (typically in dry periods), campfires may be prohibited entirely. Bear canisters are not required, but proper food storage is essential.
April, May, September, and October offer the best conditions for backpacking the Prescott Circle Trail. Late April through May brings comfortable temperatures (daytime highs 67-75°F, nighttime lows 34-40°F), minimal rainfall, and often wildflowers at higher elevations. September marks the end of monsoon season with ideal weather: warm days, cool nights, crystal-clear skies, and the most stable conditions of the year. Early October extends this window with spectacular fall colors beginning to appear.
Summer (June-August) is hot and challenging, with daytime temperatures in the low-to-mid 80s and intense sun exposure on the western exposed sections. The monsoon season (July-August, peaking in August) brings predictable afternoon thunderstorms with heavy rain, lightning, hail, and flash flood danger—not recommended for thru-hiking but manageable with early starts and flexible schedules. Lightning risk is significant on exposed ridgelines during afternoon storms.
Winter (November-March) is possible for experienced backpackers skilled in snow travel and willing to carry long water hauls. Snow and ice occur on north-facing sections, particularly above 6,500 feet. Daytime temperatures range from 50-60°F, with nighttime lows dropping to 28-39°F. The primary challenge is water: campground spigots are shut off November 1 through March 31, and some trail fountains (like Peavine) are winterized. March and November offer transitional weather with hiking-friendly temperatures but require careful water planning.
Water is the most critical logistical challenge on the Prescott Circle Trail. There are only a few reliable potable sources: drinking fountains at Pioneer Park (mile 12.3), Goldwater Lake (unreliable due to vandalism-related shutoffs), Peavine parking area (shut off for winter), and the developed campgrounds. White Spar and Yavapai campgrounds have water seasonally from May through October; these sources are turned off November through April.
Natural water sources near the lakes (Watson, Willow, Goldwater, Lynx) provide the most reliable access but require filtration or treatment. Seasonal reliability varies dramatically—spring snowmelt and post-monsoon periods (September) offer better natural water availability, while late spring and early summer can be very dry. Many backpackers report needing to carry 4-6 liters between reliable sources during dry seasons. Water caching is common for some hikers planning longer stretches.
Resupply is straightforward since the trail passes close to Prescott. Downtown Prescott has multiple grocery stores including Safeway (1044 Willow Creek Rd, 10 minutes from downtown) and Natural Grocers, plus a full-service REI store for gear needs. Sportsman's Warehouse near Thumb Butte also carries camping supplies. The trail comes within three miles of downtown at its closest point, making mid-trip resupply feasible if needed. However, most 2-3 day thru-hikers simply carry all food from the start.
Rattlesnakes are active March through October, most commonly encountered at dawn, dusk, and increasingly at night as temperatures rise in late spring and summer. They are not aggressive but will defend themselves if surprised. Use trekking poles to probe vegetation and rocks, avoid placing hands or feet where you can't see, and maintain 10+ feet of distance if you encounter one. Black bears and mountain lions inhabit the area—recent sightings near Prescott Valley have been reported. Make noise, don't hike alone, avoid dawn/dusk excursions, and carry bear spray. If you encounter a mountain lion, make yourself large, maintain eye contact, do not run, and fight back aggressively if attacked.
Afternoon thunderstorms during monsoon season (July-September) bring lightning danger, especially on exposed ridgelines and the western sections with limited tree cover. Start early and plan to be off high points by early afternoon. Flash flooding can occur in drainages during heavy rain.
Navigation requires attention despite generally good signage. The trail is marked with round Prescott Circle Trail logos at junctions, but some sections have inconsistent marking. Multiple trail users report missing turnoffs and getting off-route 2-3 times, particularly where numerous trails intersect. Download offline maps, carry a GPS device or phone with GPS capability, and verify your location at each junction. The Boycott Trail section is described as the most technical, following a rocky downhill streambed.
Heat exposure on the western and southern sections can be severe in summer. Juniper and low scrub provide minimal shade compared to the ponderosa forests on the eastern side. Carry extra water and sun protection for these segments.
Wildfire history includes the 2022 Crooks Fire, which temporarily closed portions of the trail near Goldwater Lake and Watson Lake. Check the Prescott National Forest alerts page before your trip for current closures related to fire, prescribed burns, or powerline construction.
Prescott is located in central Arizona, approximately 100-110 miles north of Phoenix. The nearest major airport is Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), about 2-2.5 hours driving time. Prescott also has a small regional airport, Ernest A. Love Field (PRC), with limited commercial service.
Groome Transportation provides daily shuttle service with 23+ scheduled round trips between Phoenix Sky Harbor and Prescott. They offer door-to-door service with advance reservation (book 36 hours ahead by calling 928-350-8466 or online). Other shuttle options include Airport Shuttle of Phoenix, Northern Arizona Limousine, and Fly-U Shuttle. Most backpackers will want to rent a car at the Phoenix airport for flexibility accessing trailheads and shopping for supplies.
The Prescott Circle Trail has 15 trailheads spaced around the loop, making it easy to access for day hikes or to start a thru-hike. Popular starting points for counterclockwise thru-hikes include Yavapai Campground in Granite Basin and Watson Lake. Most trailheads have adequate parking, though weekend use can fill popular lots. Parking at City trailheads requires a day fee; National Forest trailheads accept the Interagency Pass. Road conditions to trailheads are generally good and suitable for passenger vehicles, though some dispersed camping access roads require high clearance.
Start counterclockwise from Yavapai Campground or Watson Lake to enjoy the forested, shaded eastern sections at higher elevations first, saving the more exposed western terrain for when you've hit your stride. This direction also aligns with prevailing weather patterns and provides better morning light on the Granite Dells.
For a 3-day itinerary, camp at Yavapai Campground (or nearby designated dispersed sites) after day one and White Spar Campground after day two. This breaks the loop into roughly 18-mile segments. Reserve campsites in advance during peak season (April-May, September-October) as first-come sites fill quickly on weekends. For a 2-day speed hike, fit backpackers can push 27 miles per day, camping once at White Spar.
The Granite Dells at Watson Lake are the highlight—plan to linger and explore the spectacular boulder formations. The birding on the north side of Willow Lake is excellent in spring and fall migration. If you have time, the side trail to Granite Mountain summit is worth the extra miles for expansive views.
Cache water in advance if attempting the trail during dry seasons (late May-June) or winter when campground water is off. Some hikers stash gallon jugs at road crossings where the trail is accessible by car. Carry at least 4-6 liters between reliable sources in dry conditions.
Trail intersections can be confusing—download offline maps to your phone and enable GPS tracking. Cell service is generally good near town but spotty in remote sections. The MTB Project app has detailed trail maps and is popular with local mountain bikers who can offer beta on conditions.
Avoid the trail during active fire restrictions or immediately after wildfires—check the Prescott National Forest website for current alerts and closures before departing. Prescribed burns occur periodically in the forest, sometimes causing temporary trail closures or smoky conditions.
Bring trekking poles for the Boycott Trail section and for probing around rocks and vegetation where rattlesnakes may hide. The trail surface varies from smooth singletrack to rocky, technical sections, so ankle support and sturdy footwear are recommended.
If doing a resupply mid-trip or needing to bail, the trail crosses several roads with access to town. The closest approach to downtown Prescott is around mile 25-30 depending on your starting point. Uber and Lyft operate in Prescott if you need a ride to a trailhead or back to town in an emergency.
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