NMVC THURSDAY HIKES: Woods Canyon Lake
April 23 @ 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Name of Hike: Woods Canyon Lake
Location: Payson, AZ. Mogollon Rim
Trailhead Meet Up Date: 4/23/2026
Trailhead Meet Up Time: 9:00 AM
Leader(s): Billie & Neil
Leader Contact: Billie text 602-361-0276 or shakemat4@yahoo.com
Carpool? (Y/N) Yes
Carpool Time & Location: Fountain Hills Target east side of lot. at 7 AM be there 10 mins early to work out the drivers/cars going.
Hike Distance (estim): 5 miles
Hike Time (estim): 3
Elevation Chg (approx ft, optional): ft
Hike Description: From the general store, we’ll head East on a counter clockwise loop around the lake. There are many photo ops along this trail so we may be stopping occasionally to view scenery or wildlife. We have spotted Osprey and Bald Eagles in past times.
Bring your lunch and we’ll have a picnic after the hike. Lunches can be left in the car with ice.
This trip is an excellent opportunity to experience the amazing view from the Mogollon Rim on the way home.
Drive Instructions: Take the Beeline Hwy (Arizona 87) to Payson, (about 1.5 to 2 hrs.)
Drive into town to Junction with state route #260. Go right (East) past Kohl’s Ranch to where the road tops out on the Mogollon Rim. The lake is about 30 miles from Payson.
Turn left onto Forest Rd 300, follow the road for 5 miles to Woods Canyon Lake and the boat launching pad. Park near the general store. Restrooms available.