CENTENNIAL TRAIL OFFERS VIEWS AND DIVERSE GEOGRAPHY

by Kelly Tolbert, Recreation Coordinator, Prescott Parks and Recreation
Nestled among breathtaking boulders, and easily accessible from almost anywhere in Prescott, the Centennial Trail offers spectacular views of Prescott amid shrub oak and large pine trees, while highlighting the area’s diverse geography.
Constructed to commemorate Arizona’s 100 years of statehood, the trail officially opened in 2012 after about 10 months of collaborative efforts. Many local residents and visitors were utilizing the path prior to it being a properly maintained trail, which emphasizes the desirable, convenient location of this urban recreation trail.
As with many trails and their history, Centennial Trail would not have been possible without the cooperation of the surrounding landowners, developers and residents. The City of Prescott was able to use designated open-space funds to purchase one lot in the surrounding development called The Preserve, which now serves as a parking area for one of the trailheads’ access. With 30 acres already designated as open space within The Preserve subdivision, the developer made a generous donation to the city for timely construction and connectivity. The entire project was a positive experience, and never have so many compliments and words of thanks been received while trail construction was in progress.
This particular trail is unique in that it allows connectivity beginning near the rodeo grounds to the Greenways Trails, connecting to neighborhoods including Forest Trails, Enchanted Canyon and Thumb Butte Recreation area.
Other contributors included volunteers such as the Over the Hill Gang, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University honors students, community work programs such as the Yavapai County Juvenile Probation Department and City Community Service Work Program and several students from Mile High Middle School.
Centennial Trail offers intriguing attractions, and among them are large boulders with petroglyphs, two parking areas and panoramic views of the rodeo grounds and downtown Prescott. This trail is conducive to winter hiking and bicycling, but can be muddy, so always exercise trail etiquette.
Trail users can choose to park at either trailhead, one of which can be accessed off Iron Springs Road. Make a left on Kile Street (just prior to the Iron Springs Café) and follow for about one-quarter of a mile to the parking area designated on the left. Alternatively, parking for the other trailhead can be found from Gail Gardner Way by turning west on Westridge Drive (next to the RV storage lot), and you will see the parking area approximately 200 yards on the right. Follow the recreation signs to the stairs that begin the official trail. There are no restrooms. However, parking is always free. Trail maps can be found at many local outdoor retailers and businesses and online at prescotttrails.com, or inside the trail map boxes located on various trails within the city.