Prescott’s Autumn Glow: Your Family Adventure Guide

Prescott transforms in the autumn. The crisp mountain air carries the scent of pine, and the landscape, known for its granite dells and ponderosa forests, bursts into a brilliant display of gold, amber, and crimson. It’s a place where you can watch your kids crunch through fallen leaves in the morning and enjoy a warm drink downtown in the afternoon.

Where to Find Prescott’s Best Fall Colors

• Thumb Butte Trail #33: This iconic Prescott landmark offers more than just stunning views. It’s an excellent spot for a family picnic with an accessible viewpoint, restrooms, and a paved parking area (a small day-use fee is required).
• Goldwater Lake: Just four miles from downtown, Goldwater Lake is a family paradise in the fall. The shoreline is fringed with cottonwoods and willows that reflect beautifully in the water. A paved path along a portion of the lake is perfect for strollers, and a playground near the ramadas gives kids a place to burn off energy. You can also rent kayaks or canoes for a different perspective on the foliage. Parking requires a small fee.
• Granite Basin Lake: Nestled among granite boulders and tall pines, Granite Basin offers a serene setting. The area’s deciduous trees, including Arizona walnut and ash, provide pockets of brilliant yellow against the rugged landscape. The easy 0.8-mile Discovery Trail is a great option for young children, and the picnic areas are top-notch. A day-use fee applies here as well.
• Watson Lake and the Peavine Trail: While Watson Lake is famous for its dramatic blue water and granite dells, the riparian area along the Prescott Peavine Trail is a fall color hotspot. Follow the trail north from the lake to find a corridor of cottonwood trees creating a golden canopy. The trail itself is a relatively flat, converted railroad bed, making it ideal for strollers, young cyclists, and long walks.

What to Pack

A little preparation ensures a safe and comfortable outing.

• Layer Your Clothing: Prescott mornings can be frosty, but afternoons are often sunny and pleasant. Pack layers that you can easily add or remove.
• Sun Protection: The sun is strong at an elevation of 5,300 feet. Bring hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
• Stay Hydrated: The dry air and altitude can dehydrate you quickly. Carry more water than you think you’ll need, especially on hikes.
• Leave No Trace: Pack out everything you pack in. Leave rocks, plants, and other natural objects as you find them for others to enjoy.

Prescott in the fall is truly special. The colors, the cool air, and the abundance of accessible nature create the perfect setting for making family memories. It’s time to pack your jackets, load up the car, and discover the autumn magic waiting for you in the mountains of Arizona.