Located adjacent to the Lynx Lake recreation site a few miles south of downtown Prescott, the trails of the Highland Center for Natural History blend hiking with education. Two easy trail loops are laid out to highlight the unique geology, plant life, conservation concerns and watershed resources of the Central Arizona Highlands. Accompanying field guides available at the trailhead correspond with numbered points of interest along the collective 3-miles of nature trails. These short paths also connect with longer forest trails for those who want more of a challenge. In addition to being a model of sustainable building practices and fire-wise landscaping, the center offers a plethora of guided field hikes, youth learning opportunities and naturalist certification programs. But the keynote event is the annual “Take A Hike” Hiking Spree. Participants in the popular self-paced event hike a list of designated trails within the Prescott National Forest and City of Prescott systems between September and December. Hikers who complete the program may purchase a specially designed commemorative medallion and also are entered into a prize drawing. Visit the center’s web site for details. highlandscenter.org
LENGTH: 3 miles
RATING: easy, partially barrier free
ELEVATION: 5,300 – 5,590 feet
GETTING THERE:
- 1375 S. Walker Road, Prescott.
- From State Route 69 in Prescott, go 1.8 miles south on Walker Road (milepost 293) to the center on the left.
FACILITIES: visitor center, restrooms
FEE: none, but donations are appreciated
HOURS: variable, but generally 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
