Weekend Warriors Arizona Hiking Guide

LAKEVIEW TRAIL

If an easy hike through a forest ending in a nice view of a lake, then you will like this hike.

HOW TO GET THERE

This hike is located near Flagstaff, AZ.

From the Phoenix area, take I-17 North to the point where I-40, I-17, and HWY89A meet. Take the Lake Mary Road exit and head south. Go about 20 miles on this road to the turnoff to the Mormon Lake Road on the right. Turn right here and go 5.0 miles to the turnoff to the Double Spring Campground. Follow the signs for the Lakeview Trail that starts near the entrance to the campground. 

RATING

Be Aware of: Not much parking area at the trailhead.

30 yr old Recommendation: Pleasant and relaxing, ending at a nice view at the summit. This is an Easy hike. 

DETAILS

Elevation change: about 300 ft gain to the top.

Distance: 2.50 miles round trip.

Time: It took us about 1.5 hours with a 15 minute break at the top.

Time of year: Spring to Fall

Solitude: Considering the proximity to an active campground, the solitude was pretty good. We saw about 4 other hikers on a Memorial Day Weekend.   

This hike starts near the front of the Double Spring campground and is well signed. Starting by crossing a small stream, the trail is well established and easy to follow. A sign early in the trail lists the distance at 2.0 miles, which conflicts with the 1.25 one way miles listed by Richard and Sherry Mangum in Flagstaff Hikes. However, given the quick time in which we finished this hike, I'm inclined to believe the book and not the sign on this one.

While the trail gains steadily in elevation, it never feels steep. The trail winds through a pine forest for the entirety of the hike. Hiking through this forest is pleasant and not strenuous. Relaxing is the word that comes to mind when describing it.

After 1.25 miles of hiking, you reach a rocky overlook that reveals views of Mormon Lake. It is a nice spot to relax and have a snack while enjoying the views.

When ready, return the way you came. Enjoy!

[Views of Mormon Lake from the trail]

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