Prescott National Forest

Located in the rugged mountains of north-central Arizona near the historic territorial capital of Prescott, this 1.25-million-acre forest spans from chaparral-covered foothills at 3,500 feet to pine-topped peaks reaching over 7,900 feet. The scenic Granite Dells, with their weathered billion-year-old Precambrian granite boulders, create a striking landscape around Watson and Willow Lakes just north of town. Eight designated wilderness areas protect the forest's most pristine landscapes, including the Granite Mountain Wilderness -- a premier rock climbing destination -- and the remote Woodchute, Cedar Bench, and Pine Mountain wilderness areas along the Verde River corridor. The forest's diverse vegetation transitions from interior chaparral and pinyon-juniper woodlands at lower elevations through extensive ponderosa pine forests to mixed conifer at the highest points, supporting wildlife including black bear, javelina, mountain lion, and a thriving elk herd. Prescott's mild four-season climate makes the forest a year-round recreation destination for hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking on over 450 miles of trails, and fishing at Goldwater, Lynx, and Mingus lakes. The forest also preserves significant mining heritage from Prescott's gold rush era, with remnants of historic mines and the Senator Highway connecting to the ghost town of Crown King.