Thumb Butte Picnic Site

The most distinguishing landmark in Prescott, AZ, Thumb Butte is famous for its towering ponderosa pines, picnic facilities, and access to world-class hiking trails--all just minutes from downtown! Interpretive signs orient visitors to the area's flora and fauna, historical and cultural resources, and current management practices. A trip to Prescott is not complete without a stop over at Thumb Butte!

Printable Thumb Butte Trails and Area Map (1.41 MB)

View photo on Flickr:

Note: This site closes following especially heavy snow, and when the roads are too icy. If you plan to visit and want to make sure it is open, please contact the Bradshaw Ranger Station: 928-443-8000. When the office is closed, please check the right-hand column under "Alerts and Warnings" to see if there are weather-related closures, and follow the link to see if this site is closed or on a reduced schedule.

Facilities

13 picnic tables
No fire pits
8 pedestal grills
Ramada
Bike rack
Drinking water (seasonally)
Flush toilets and vault toilet
Garbage service

Note: This site closes following especially heavy snow and when the roads are too icy. If you plan to visit and want to make sure it is open, please contact the Bradshaw Ranger Station: 928-443-8000.

At a Glance

Operational Hours:	March 1 - April 30: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM May 1 - August 31: 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM September 1 - November 30: 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM December 1 - February 28 (or 29): 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Fees:	$5 for day use; Free every Wednesday!
Open Season:	Year-round
Usage:	Heavy
Restrictions:	Closed to rock climbing during the winter and spring to protect nesting peregrine falcons.
Closest Towns:	Prescott, AZ
Operated By:	Forest Service

General Information

Directions:

From Prescott, AZ: take Gurley Street west, which becomes Thumb Butte Road, travel 2.2 miles to the Thumb Butte Picnic Area entrance.

Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

Interpretive Areas

Thumb Butte Loop Trail #33 is open only to hikers. This is a steep, but popular, 2.0 mile loop hike with environmental interpretation signs and benches along the route.