Riggs Flat Lake

Area Status: Open

Riggs Flat Lake

Riggs Flat Lake is located at the end of Swift Trail, a road that winds along the top of the Pinaleño Mountains. It is a small picturesque lake, 11 acres in size, set in alpine forest and meadow.

Its cold waters are stocked during the summer with brown and rainbow trout. For information on fishing licenses and stocking schedules: Arizona Game and Fish.

If the big ones aren’t biting, there is always plenty of scenery to enjoy. In addition to the views of the lake and the surrounding forest, West Peak is visible from the vicinity of the lake. So are Aravaipa Valley and the Galiuro Mountains to the west if you don't mind taking a short hike to get to an overlook.

Note: Black bear area. Store and dispose of all food in bear-proof containers and trash bins, or keep it locked in your vehicle with windows all the way up.

At a Glance

Area Amenities:	Picnic tables: Yes Fee charged for some activities: Yes Parking: Yes Toilets: Yes Boat ramp: Yes Drinking water: Yes
Fees:	Day-use: $8 per vehicle Weekly: $10 per vehicle Buy a pass online, or purchase a pass on-site with cash or check. Proof of payment, or a valid Coronado National Forest Annual Pass or Interagency (America the Beautiful) Pass, including the Annual, Senior, Access, or Military Pass, must be displayed on the driver's side of the vehicle dashboard. Learn more about accepted passes.
Permit Info:	For fishing licenses, rules, and regulations: Arizona Game and Fish
Open Season:	April 15 - November 14
Usage:	Medium-Heavy
Restrictions:	Vehicle restrictions: Vehicles (including trailers) longer than 22 feet are not recommended because of the difficulty of negotiating the switchbacks on AZ 366. This area is not accessible by vehicle from November 15 to April 15 when the Swift Trail is closed for the winter. Early or late snow may extend the inaccessible season. Fishing restrictions: Using live bait fish is prohibited. The fishing season is May to October, day and night. Boat restrictions: Boats are limited to one electric trolling motor.
Closest Towns:	Safford, AZ
Information Center:	Safford Ranger District (928) 428-4150

General Information

Directions:

From Safford, Arizona: Drive south 8 miles on US 191 to AZ 366/Swift Trail. Turn right (southwest) onto 366 and drive 29 miles to the Columbine Visitor Center. Continue along National Forest Service (NFS) Roads 803 and 287 for about 5 miles to the campground.

From Tucson, Arizona: Take I-10 east for 90 miles. Take exit 352 for US 191, and turn left toward Safford. Drive 26.3 miles north and turn left on AZ 366/Swift Trail. Drive 29 miles to the Columbine Visitor Center and then continue along National Forest Service (NFS) Roads 803 and 287 for about 5 miles to the campground.