Yavapai Point Trail

A day use fee of $6 per vehicle is require at the park entrance.

The park is open 24 hours. Trails are open from 6am to 8pm Sunday through Thursday, and from 6 a.m. through 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

This trail is a “must-do” if you’re hiking at Lake Pleasant. It starts at Pipeline Canyon Trail near parking area #3. The trail is well-marked with some loose gravel and embedded rock throughout. It winds in and out of some small washes, as it makes a steady climb along the side of the mountain, the views become increasingly satisfying. There are some interesting rock formations and desert cacti to add to the experience of the hike.

As the lake becomes visible in the distance, the trail narrows and begins to ascend a steeper grade. Keep in mind there are a couple of “false summits” on this trail that can fool you into thinking you’re almost at the top, only to lead you on a switchback the other direction. If you continue all the way to the summit, there’s a bench for sitting and enjoying the amazing view of the lake. This is a great place to have a snack before heading back down the mountain.

There is a variety of desert plants and cacti. Watch for wild burro, squirrels, rabbits, birds, and rattlesnakes.