Watson Lake and Flume Trail
Distance: 4.5 Miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 367'
Dog Friendly: Yes!
Permit/Pass Required: Depends on where you park...
Getting There: See Map.
Tips: Watch for the white dots - the trail has been flooded in areas and there are some places requiring a rocky scramble and it's easy to lose sight of the trail. There are spray-painted white dots directing you throughout the hike.
About the Hike: Imagine you've traveled to Mars...only this version has water. That's what Watson Lake reminds me of. This beautiful blue body of water surrounded by massive rounded granite boulders is something out of a sci-fi flick. Formed in the early 1900's after an irrigation dam was built on Granite Creek, Watson Lake is now a recreational paradise. Runners, bike-riders, rock climbers, kayakers and bird watchers frequent this little slice of paradise.
Park at the viewpoint on the side of the highway for free parking and find the stairs to the north to head down to Flume Trail. Follow the trail to the left and you will approach the south boat launch and boat rental area. From there continue into the disc golf course (watch for flying objects) and you will eventually find yourself at the north boat launch. This is where your adventure truly begins. The trail leads to the left of the launch and will take you through the granite vistas and overlooks. As you find yourself deeper along the trail you'll be surprised with hidden creeks and beaches, marshes and this is where having the map downloaded on AllTrails will come in really handy. Start watching for the white dots so you don't get lost. The trail meanders around the lake, through multiple small canyons and eventually leads you to the Prescott Peavine Trail, past the marsh and bird-filled shallow end of the lake and back to your car.
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