One of the best hikes in Arizona skirts around a beautiful lake hiding deep within the Prescott National Forest. Lynx Lake Loop Trail is an easy, 2.6-mile stroll that runs along the banks of Lynx Lake, a pristine oasis surrounded by trees and mountains. Not only is the trail short, sweet, and scenic, but it’s also one of the most peaceful hikes you’ll ever take.
Nestled in the lush Prescott National Forest, Lynx Lake is a pristine oasis surrounded by trees and mountains. It’s a nature lover’s dream, often regarded as one of the clearest lakes in Arizona.
AllTrails/Anne Lopez
There are a variety of different ways to enjoy the lake, but the 2.6-mile Lynx Lake Loop Trail is one of our favorites. Easy and incredibly scenic, the trail skirts around the lake, paralleling the waterfront for its entire duration.
AllTrails/Preston Zuckerman
Most of the trail (primarily the west side) is paved and suitable for strollers and wheelchair users. Portions of the east side, however, are unpaved, and wheelchair and stroller users may need adaptive equipment to safely navigate the terrain.
AllTrails/Preston Zuckerman
With an elevation gain of only 78 feet, the trail is about as low-key as it gets. That means instead of concentrating on your footing, you can enjoy the peaceful sight of kayakers paddling along, leaving gentle ripples on the water’s surface.
AllTrails/Joy Alvo
If you want to take a break, there are plenty of shaded picnic tables overlooking the lake. Rehydrate, munch on some snakes, and take in the views before getting back on the trail.
AllTrails/Matt Lubera
You’ll also see lots of native wildlife, including a variety of bird species. It looks like one of these little guys was ready to set off on a boating adventure!
AllTrails/Nick Garcia
While the trail is accessible year-round, the scenery definitely stands out more in certain seasons. During fall, the landscape comes alive with brilliant foliage…
AllTrails/K P
…and in the winter, the snow-covered ground is nothing short of magical.
AllTrails/Saina Kamula
Have you ever hiked the Lynx Lake Loop Trail? If so, do you agree that it’s one of the best hikes in Arizona? Tell us your thoughts in the comments! Don’t forget to check out our previous article for an awesome zoo to check out while you’re in the area.
AllTrails/Anne Lopez
AllTrails/Preston Zuckerman
AllTrails/Joy Alvo
AllTrails/Matt Lubera
AllTrails/Nick Garcia
AllTrails/K P
AllTrails/Saina Kamula
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Address: Lynx Lake, Arizona 86303, USA
