Prescott is known for some amazing outdoor activities especially hiking this time of year. You will find moderate to more challenging hiking trails around the Prescott mountains that are especially nice in the fall — nice colors, cooler temps, good views.
Great Fall Hikes in Prescott
| Trail | Distance / Loop | What Makes It Good in Fall / Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Spruce Mountain via Groom Creek Loop (#307) | ~ 9.1 mi round-trip | Elevation climbs give good vantage points; lots of oak, pine, juniper shading; cooler air, especially in early morning or late afternoon. |
| Granite Mountain Trail #261 | ~ 8.1 mi round-trip moderate (some consider it moderate-hard) | Offers panoramic views; fall colors on the lower slopes; nice mix of forested and open views. |
| Willow Lake Loop | ~ 5.7-mile loop | Scenic around the lake, riparian vegetation adds color; less strenuous elevation changes. |
| Bannon Creek Trail + Trail #396 | ~ 5.2 mi (with options to extend) | Trails by water and through forest; good mix of terrain. In the fall, water levels may be lower (so less muddy), leaves changing color near riparian sections. |
| Thumb Butte Trail #33 | ~ 2.5 mi loop | Shorter but with steady climb; very worthwhile views at the top; good option for half-day hikes. |
| Little Granite Mountain (Trail 37 with Granite Basin Lake loop option) | Moderate, ~1.5 hrs hike for certain loops, longer if you include lake loops. |
