Enjoy the Great Outdoors in Prescott Valley

by Marnie Uhl, President/CEO, Prescott Valley Chamber of Commerce
Some of the best days can be spent outdoors right here in Prescott Valley, where nature and community coexist for a nurturing and satisfying experience. 
One of my favorites is Mountain Valley Park; 69 acres of land located in the middle of Prescott Valley. And while it has great amenities such as the outdoor aquatic center, dog park, play equipment and the skate park, I am always drawn to the Urban Forest/Yavapai Lakes. 
The lakes with their water features sit on 12 acres surrounded by an all-accessible walking path and are home to a variety of waterfowl, fish and other wildlife. Many of the 100 trees at the Urban Forest have been donated in remembrance for special people or events, and a nearby kiosk displays commemorative plaques. The two lakes have been added to the Arizona Game and Fish Community Fishing Program; they are stocked and fishing is permitted. A valid fishing license is required for those older than 10.
On any given morning people are here walking their dogs, getting exercise for themselves or just plain enjoying being outdoors. There are several of us who make this our weekly Sunday “back to nature” morning and enjoy this wonderful recreational opportunity no matter what time of the year. I always like to remind people to not feed bread to the ducks but to use grapes, peas or worms instead. The Urban Forest/Yavapai Lakes are located at 8700 Lakeshore Drive.
Not too far down the road is Fain Park, another beautiful oasis in the heart of Prescott Valley. This 100-acre land parcel was donated by the Fain family to the citizens of Prescott Valley and is home to many recreational activities including hiking, fishing and gold panning. All trails are easy to moderate and consist of several looping and connecting trails. 
The lake is stocked with trout, and a valid fishing license is required for those older than 10. Additionally, the park includes a replica 1890s gold rush town (Massick’s), the Fitzmaurice Ruin archaeological site, and a historical mining display. Bring a picnic; spend a day in the beautiful outdoors right here in your own backyard!
 The Town of Prescott Valley hosts an annual Gold Fever Day along with Badges and Bobbers sponsored by the Prescott Valley Police Department. This is a celebration of our mining history with a free fishing day for the kids. More information on this great event can be found at www.pvaz.net/292/Parks-Recreation. Fain Park is located on Fifth Street just off of Second Street near Highway 69.
And if you are feeling a little more restless and want to get farther out into nature, visit the Mingus Mountain Recreation Area, Lynx Lake Recreation Area, Glassford Hill Summit Trail and the Iron King Trail.
Whether you are looking for a morning walk, hike, day trip or more there is plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities right here in Prescott Valley. Get out and enjoy!