by Kelly Tolbert, Recreation Coordinator, City of Prescott
Prescott’s mild climate and mostly sunny days allow for plenty of opportunities to explore the natural environment. Approximately 105 miles of multiuse trails, along with over 450 miles of Prescott National Forest trails, are offered in Prescott and surrounding communities — perfect for mountain bikers, rock climbers, horseback riders or hiking enthusiasts! Outfitter shops are conveniently located downtown.
Approximately 105 miles of multiuse trails, along with over 450 miles of Prescott National Forest trails, are offered in Prescott and surrounding communities.
Our outdoors offer:
Antelope Hills Golf Course, a 36-hole championship golf course, has scenic views and affordable rates. A 10-acre driving range offers a state-of-the-art practice experience along with chipping and putting greens. The Manzanita Grille restaurant and bar may enhance your overall experience. Large parties, weddings or other banquets can be easily accommodated at the Centennial Center that overlooks the north course. More information is available at www.antelopehillsgolf.com
Arizona Game and Fish Department stocks the seven area lakes with various species of fish, offering up year-round fishing opportunities. For more information, visit www.azgfd.com/fishing/locations/prescott
Birding is a popular activity among visitors and locals alike. Due to Prescott’s highly diverse geographic position, many spectacular bird species can be see migrating, nesting and flitting around in the high desert chaparral. The local Audubon Society chapter has worked diligently at gaining certain areas as Important Birding Areas, such as Watson and Willow lakes. Local businesses also specialize in bird education and sell localized bird food.
Bocce Ball at Watson Lake offers three regulation size courts with surrounding amenities such as restrooms, covered day use picnic areas, seating areas and scenic views. Visit www.prescott-az.gov/recreation-area/watson-lake-park for more information.
Disc Golf at Watson Lake is an 18-hole course including alternate tees with two pads at holes one through four and holes 14 through 18 for a total of 27. The Prescott Disc Golf club assists with facilitating league play and tournaments. There is a $3 parking fee daily except Wednesdays, however discounted prepaid parking is available through Recreation Services: www.prescott-az.gov/recreation-events/recreation-services/parking-passes
Horseshoes at Watson Lake can be enjoyed on state-of-the-art horseshoe courts open to the public or, if you prefer, join the Mile Hi Horseshoe Club for some friendly competition. League play is May-September on Thursday evenings for $2 (no play in July). Parking at Watson Lake is $3 per car per day. For more information visit www.prescott-az.gov/recreation-area/watson-lake-park
Mike Fann Community Skate Park can be accessed on the corner of E Willis Street and Arizona Avenue, a section of Ken Lindley Park off Gurley Street. Park hours are 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Memorial Day through Labor Day; 7 a.m. to sunset the rest of the year. The unsupervised park is open to all skill levels of skateboards, in-line skates and bikes. For more information visit www.prescott-az.gov/recreation-area/mike-fann-community-skate-park
Prescott Outdoors offers watercraft rentals — stand up paddle boards, kayaks, canoes — at Goldwater and Watson lakes seasonally and weather permitting. Hourly or daily rates are available. Group reservations are available by going to www.prescottoutdoors.com
Prescott Pickleball Courts at Pioneer Park are open to the public with league play and tournaments throughout the year. The Prescott Pickleball Association is a volunteer-based organization dedicated to maintaining and facilitating specialized use of the courts. For pickleball events check www.prescottpickleball.org
Trekabout Hiking Club features guided hikes on Tuesday and Thursday mornings throughout the year, starting at 7 a.m. in the summer and 8 a.m. the rest of the year. Hikes vary in difficulty. Trekabout Hiking Club is a collaboration between the Highlands Center for Natural History, City of Prescott Recreation Services Department and Yavapai County Community Health Department. More information can be found at www.prescott-az.gov/recreation-events/programs-special-events/programs/trekabout-hiking-club
