If you've ever dreamed of hiking all the way around Prescott, well, we would first say that's a strange and oddly specific dream to have. Regardless, you soon will be able to make that dream a reality.
The city of Prescott announced last week that its Prescott Circle Trail, a 52-mile loop around the city, is expected to be completed in March or April of next year. The idea of a circle trail around Prescott was first proposed in 1990 by the Yavapai Trails Association, the city said in a statement.
The trail ranges from 5,140 to 6,690 feet in elevation, and it passes many Prescott landmarks, including Watson, Willow and Goldwater lakes; Thumb Butte, the mountain that towers over the city; and Pioneer Park, on the north side of town. There are three campgrounds along the trail, enabling campers and backpackers to easily explore the area.
To mark the trail's completion and increase awareness of its accessibility, the city is planning a three-day backpacking adventure featuring guests from Arizona State Parks, Prescott National Forest, Yavapai County and other groups. When details of that event are hashed out, we'll bring them to you on our blog.
To see a map of the finalized trail, click here.
(Photo: Tam Ryan | Watson Lake)