West Lake Trail #351
West Lake Trail #351 begins at the Cayuse Equestrian Trailhead within the Granite Basin Recreation Area. It passes through a mixed forest of ponderosa pine and alligator juniper as it as it travels toward Granite Basin Lake. The trail crosses a creek several times. Although the creek is usually dry, its banks are lined with dense vegetation that is nourished by occasional flows. After its junction with Mint Wash Trail #345, Trail #351 turns southwest and crosses Granite Basin Road before it ends at Balancing Rock Trail #349. This short trail provides access to other Granite Basin trails, especially for horseback riders who are not permitted to park horse trailers at other trailheads within the Recreation Area.
This trail is open to hikers, horseback riders, and mountain bicyclists. Please be considerate of other users—slow down and know when to yield the trail. Dogs must be on leashes; please clean up after pets. Restrooms are available at the parking area. Other amenities at the trailhead include water for horses, hitching posts, and picnic tables.
Printable Resources:
- West Lake Trail #351 Trail Description and Map (955 KB; Black and White; 8.5” X 11”)
- Cayuse Loop Trail Description and Map (727 KB; Black and White; 8.5” X 11”)
- Granite Basin Recreation Area Brochure (120 KB; Color; 8.5” X 17”)
At a Glance
Fees: |
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Open Season: | Year Round |
Usage: | Medium |
Closest Towns: | Approximately 20 minutes from Prescott, AZ |
Water: | Water available in parking area. Surface water should be treated. |
General Information
Directions:From its intersection with Willow Creek Road, travel northwest on Iron Springs Road for 3 miles. Turn right onto Granite Basin Road and proceed 2.4 miles to the Cayuse Equestrian Trailhead on the right. Continue 0.1 miles to the parking area. There is ample parking for horse trailers and regular vehicles. Road conditions are paved.
General Notes:
- Connecting trails: Mint Wash Trail #345, #348, Balancing Rock Trail #349
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Maps:
- USGS Map: 7.5’ quad for Iron Springs
- Prescott National Forest Map, west half
- Average hiking time: 30 minutes, one way
Activities
Mountain Biking
- This short, popular trail is an easy ride through the Granite Basin Recreation Area that connects with many other trails.
Difficulty Level: | Easy |
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Day Hiking
- This short trail connects with many others within the Granite Basin Recreation Area.
Difficulty Level: | Easy |
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Horse Riding
- This short, popular trail, which begins at Cayuse Equestrian Trailhead, provides horseback riders with access to numerous trails within the Granite Basin Recreation Area.
Difficulty Level: | Easy |
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Alerts & Warnings
- STAGE 2 FIRE RESTRICTIONS IN EFFECT; RESTRICCIONES DE FUEGOS ETAPA 2 EN EFECTO
- Fossil Creek & Forest Road 708 Closed until 12/31/22 for public health and saf
- Target Type restrictions implemented across the Prescott NF
- Temporary Camping Restrictions along Highway 260 and Salt Mine Road Corridor
- Drones Use on Forest Service Lands