Top 20 Lakes in Coconino County

The lakes in Coconino County offer a wide range of activities. You can enjoy fishing, boating, waterskiing, wakeboarding, kayaking, and paddleboarding, especially at larger lakes like Upper Lake Mary and Lake Powell. Many areas also provide excellent opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing. For specific routes, explore options like Cycling in Coconino County or MTB Trails in Coconino County.

Coconino County offers several excellent fishing lakes. Ashurst Lake is a favorite for trout fishing, with brown, cutthroat, rainbow, and brook trout regularly stocked. Upper Lake Mary is known for northern pike, channel catfish, crappie, and various trout. Kaibab Lake also provides good fishing for rainbow trout, largemouth bass, sunfish, and catfish. Lake Powell is renowned for its diverse fish species, including smallmouth and largemouth bass, striped bass, walleye, and catfish.

Yes, several lakes in Coconino County are suitable for families. Kaibab Lake, for example, is popular for fishing and picnicking, with an accessible fishing pier. Upper Lake Mary offers various water sports and wildlife viewing, which can be fun for all ages. Many lakes also have surrounding trails for easy walks and opportunities for birdwatching.

The lakes in Coconino County are set amidst diverse natural landscapes. You'll find serene ponderosa pine forests around Mormon Lake and Kaibab Lake, offering shaded trails and a high-country feel. Lake Powell is famous for its striking red rock formations and extensive network of side canyons. Many lakes, such as Ashurst Lake and Upper Lake Mary, are excellent for birdwatching, with opportunities to spot bald eagles, ospreys, and various waterfowl. You can also find viewpoints like Rimview Trail offering panoramic vistas.

The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and exploring, with fewer crowds. Summer is ideal for water sports and camping, though it can be warmer. For wildlife viewing, especially elk, late summer around Mormon Lake is excellent. Fishing is generally good from spring to early fall.

Absolutely. Many lakes in Coconino County are surrounded by hiking trails. The forests around Mormon Lake and Kaibab Lake offer numerous paths. You can also find trails near Upper Lake Mary. For scenic views, consider the Rimview Trail, which provides vistas of Lake Powell and the Colorado River. For more challenging options, explore the Waterfall hikes in Coconino County guide.

Upper Lake Mary is a popular choice for kayaking and canoeing, as it reliably holds water year-round and allows various non-motorized boating. Ashurst Lake is also ideal for these activities, offering scenic views and a peaceful environment. Mormon Lake, when its water levels are sufficient, also provides opportunities for non-motorized boating.

While some lakes like Lake Powell and Upper Lake Mary can be popular, you can often find quieter spots. Smaller tanks and lakes such as Bismarck Lake, Alfa Fia Tank, and Horse Lake Tank, especially those along the Arizona Trail, tend to be less crowded and offer a more secluded experience. These often serve as important water sources for wildlife and provide peaceful settings.

The lakes and surrounding areas are rich in wildlife. Upper Lake Mary is a designated Wildlife Viewing Area, where you might spot bald eagles, ospreys, waterfowl, elk, deer, and pronghorn. Mormon Lake is excellent for viewing elk in late summer, as well as waterfowl and various hawks. Ashurst Lake is also a fantastic spot for birdwatching, with bald eagles, ospreys, and ducks frequenting the area. Smaller water sources like Bismarck Lake are vital for local wildlife.

Yes, there are several scenic viewpoints. The Rimview Trail near Page offers spectacular views of Lake Powell and the Colorado River. You can also find an overlook at Mormon Lake Overlook. Bismarck Lake provides spectacular views towards Humphreys Peak, making it a great spot for a break.

Yes, accommodation options vary depending on the lake. Mormon Lake Village, on the western shore of Mormon Lake, offers a resort. Kaibab Lake is well-suited for RV and motorhome campers, with dedicated facilities. For Lake Powell, nearby Page offers various lodging options. Many lakes also have campgrounds available for visitors.

Water levels can fluctuate, especially in natural lakes. Mormon Lake, for instance, is Arizona's largest natural lake but can shrink or even disappear during dry periods. Upper Lake Mary reliably holds water year-round, serving as a drinking water source for Flagstaff. Ashurst Lake is known for maintaining good water levels even during droughts. It's always a good idea to check current conditions if water levels are critical for your planned activities.