The reflection of Granite Mountain is visible at Granite Basin Lake northwest of Prescott off of Iron Springs Road. The city just purchased the twin Watson and Willow lakes on the north side of town, off Highway 89. While Willow is basically undeveloped, Watson has plenty of parking, a boat launch, picnic areas and even a campground. A park ranger comes to collect that fee. With its unique setting amidst the spectacular Granite Dells, Watson is a popular place for rock-hopping as well.
Children love climbing around in the maze of boulders.
The city just dedicated the new Peavine Trail east of Watson Lake on June 5. It runs along 5.5 miles of an old railroad bed. Sundog Ranch Road, turn left and watch for the trailhead sign. By the way, the city lakes close at 10 p.m. during the summer to day-use visitors, so don't get embarrassed by getting locked in and having to call the police to get your car out. Some Prescott National Forest sites are just as close as the city lakes, believe it or not.