This Beautiful Arizona Mountain Lake Offers Scenic Hiking And Peaceful Recreation

Goldwater Lake is a hidden gem in Arizona. The small, man-made reservoir is tucked away in the mountains. It is surrounded by pine trees and hiking trails. It is a quiet spot for water activities, as well.

This picturesque location was formed when Banning Creek was dammed in 1932, south of Prescott, Arizona's historic western city that boasts exciting outdoor adventures, trails, and cowboy fun. The 15-acre reservoir created was named Goldwater Lake to honor Morris Goldwater, the longtime mayor of Prescott. Goldwater Lake now sits 5,500 feet above sea level in the Bradshaw Mountains, which are considered one of the most mineralized mountain ranges in the entire world. The mountains are also part of Prescott National Forest, a wilderness area that covers more than 100,000 acres in North Central Arizona. 

The city of Prescott and Goldwater Lake are both easily accessible from Flagstaff, a great place to catch stunning fall foliage views. Its small airport, Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG), is one hour and 45 minutes away. It is known as the closest airport to Grand Canyon National Park. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), one of the busiest airports in the United States, is just two hours away and receives nonstop flights from cities all around the world. It also gives you time in Phoenix, one of the best places for budget travelers in America. Then, once you arrive at the lake, you can buy a day-use parking pass ($3 per vehicle) using the kiosk.

There are a lot of great hikes around Goldwater Lake. The Goldwater Lake Shore Trail hugs the eastern edge of the lake. The one-mile, out-and-back trail may be unpaved, but it is wide and partially accessible. It also has benches and picnic tables along the way. Upper Goldwater Lake is another short trail. This nearly two-mile trail starts at the Watershed Trailhead along Senator Highway, a 38-mile dirt road that runs along the ridge of the Bradshaw Mountains. It meanders around manzanita bushes and ponderosa pines while providing great views of the lake.

If you are looking for a longer hike, the Bannon Creek Trail and the Goldwater Lakes Loop are both good options. In 2.4 miles, the Bannon Creek Trail rises up to Senator Highway, before dipping down to the edge of the lake. While the Goldwater Lakes Loop, which is the same length, circles the lake, as well as Lower Goldwater Lake, a smaller, privately owned lake that lies to the west. This is also a popular mountain biking trail.

Then, if you want more of a challenge, you should follow the Goldwater Lakes Trail #396. The nearly six-mile trail is mostly shaded by forests of ponderosa pines and alligator junipers. It winds above the lakes and across Bannon Creek, before climbing up to Senator Highway. Expect to share the trail with birdwatchers, who are on the lookout for a pair of bald eagles.

After seeing Goldwater Lake from so many viewpoints along your hike, you will probably be itching to get closer to the water. Unfortunately, swimming is not allowed. A lot of water sports are, though. There are a public boat launch and fishing docks along the edge of the lake. The boat ramp is only for electric vessels (no gas-powered motors are allowed here). While fishermen are hoping to catch largemouth bass, rainbow trout, and even crayfish. You will need a license to go fishing, but it is easy to apply for a non-resident, short-term one online ($20 per day).

Canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, and pedal boats are also allowed out on the water. You can bring your own, of course. You can also rent them on the lake from Born to Be Wild Adventures (weekends only during the off-season) and Prescott Outdoors (in season only).

Back on land, you can reserve a covered ramada (free, half or full day during the summer) for a group. Grills, picnic tables, horseshoe pits, and sand volleyball courts are always available. So are a playground and bathrooms. The only things you will not find on Goldwater Lake are big crowds and lots of noise. This beautiful mountain lake is a peaceful, scenic spot. It is one you might be hesitant to share after spending a day there.