Thumb Butte Recreation Area: Prescott's Iconic Landmark
Explore Prescott's iconic Thumb Butte: Hiking, views, and natural beauty in the heart of Prescott National Forest. Open year-round!
Thumb Butte Recreation Area, nestled in Prescott National Forest, is renowned for its distinctive Thumb Butte rock formation and panoramic views. It offers hiking trails, picnic spots, and a serene natural environment just minutes from downtown Prescott.
A brief summary to Thumb Butte Recreation Area
- 2285 Thumb Butte Rd, Prescott, Arizona, 86305, US
- +1928-443-8000
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, to secure a parking spot, as the area can get crowded.
- Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat, as the Arizona sun can be intense, especially during the summer months.
- Take advantage of the free entrance on Wednesdays to save on the day-use fee.
- Check the Prescott National Forest website or call the Bradshaw Ranger Station for alerts, warnings, and seasonal closures.
Getting There
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Driving
From downtown Prescott, head west on Gurley Street, which becomes Thumb Butte Road. Continue for approximately 3.4 miles until you see the Thumb Butte Recreation Area entrance on the right. The parking fee is $5 per vehicle, payable by cash or check. Free admission is available on Wednesdays.
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Public Transportation
Take the Yavapai Regional Transit (YRT) bus service to the nearest stop in Prescott. From there, utilize a rideshare service such as Uber or Lyft to reach Thumb Butte Recreation Area, approximately 2 miles from the bus stop. Rideshare costs may vary based on demand, but expect to pay around $8 - $15 for the final leg of the journey.
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Bicycle
From central Prescott, cycle along Thumb Butte Road for approximately 3 miles to reach the recreation area. Be prepared for some inclines along the route. Bike racks are available at the recreation area for securing your bicycle. There is no fee for bicycle access.
Discover more about Thumb Butte Recreation Area
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Petroglyph Point
1.7 km
Explore ancient rock art and Prescott's cultural heritage at Petroglyph Point, a historical landmark with stunning views and intricate carvings.
Prescott Frontier Days, Inc. - World's Oldest Rodeo
3.4 km
Experience the thrill of the Wild West at Prescott Frontier Days, home to the World's Oldest Rodeo since 1888!
Founding Fathers Collective
4.6 km
Experience Prescott's vibrant community hub: a unique blend of bar, coffee shop, food court, and barbershop in the heart of downtown.
Whiskey Row Alley
4.8 km
Experience the charm of the Old West in Prescott's Whiskey Row Alley, a historic destination with saloons, shops, and entertainment.
Del Rio Springs Vineyard Tasting Room
4.8 km
Experience award-winning Arizona wines in a relaxed downtown Prescott tasting room. Sip, savor, and enjoy the local flavors.
Old Firehouse Plaza
4.8 km
Shop, dine, and explore history at the Old Firehouse Plaza, a charming destination in downtown Prescott, Arizona.
Hotel St. Michael
4.8 km
Experience Prescott's history at Hotel St. Michael, a landmark hotel on Whiskey Row offering Victorian charm and modern comforts.
Whiskey Row Penthouse
4.8 km
Experience Prescott's history and luxury at Whiskey Row Penthouse, steps from saloons, shops, and downtown events.
Prescott Trading Company
4.8 km
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The Grand Highland Hotel
4.8 km
Experience Prescott's historic charm at The Grand Highland Hotel, located in the heart of Whiskey Row. A unique blend of old and new awaits!
Van Gogh's Ear
4.8 km
Discover exceptional contemporary fine art and craft at Van Gogh's Ear Gallery in Prescott, Arizona, showcasing over 70 local artists on historic Whiskey Row.
Bashford Courts
4.9 km
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Manifested Art
4.9 km
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Yavapai Plaza Bandstand
4.9 km
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The Burmister Building
4.9 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Thumb Butte
0.6 km
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Falcon’s Nest
0.9 km
Explore the breathtaking views and unique architecture of Falcon's Nest, a must-see tourist attraction in Prescott, Arizona.
Stricklin Park
2.4 km
Explore the serene beauty of Stricklin Park in Prescott, Arizona, where nature, recreation, and relaxation come together in a stunning urban oasis.
Butte Creek Trail
2.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Butte Creek Trail in Prescott, Arizona, where nature's tranquility meets the thrill of adventure.
Flinn Park
2.8 km
Experience the natural beauty of Prescott at Flinn Park, a serene escape for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.
The big juniper
3.4 km
Discover the beauty of The Big Juniper in Prescott, Arizona—a serene hiking area with stunning landscapes and trails for all skill levels.
Community Nature Center
3.5 km
Explore the natural beauty and tranquility of the Community Nature Center in Prescott, Arizona, a perfect destination for nature lovers and families.
Iron Springs Trailhead
4.2 km
Discover the breathtaking trails and natural beauty of Iron Springs Trailhead in Prescott, Arizona, a perfect hiking destination for nature lovers.
Prescott Historical Society
4.5 km
Explore Prescott's captivating past at the Prescott Historical Society, where local history comes alive through engaging exhibits and stories.
Sharlot Hall Museum
4.6 km
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Puzzle Rides Prescott
4.7 km
Experience immersive escape rooms in Prescott's Historic Downtown, where teamwork meets thrill for an unforgettable adventure.
Prescott Arizona Mural
4.8 km
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Boyle/ DeBusk Open Space Preserve
4.8 km
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Palace Restaurant & Saloon
4.8 km
Discover the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of the Palace Restaurant & Saloon in Prescott, Arizona - a must-visit for food and history lovers.
A Haunting Experience Tours
4.8 km
Discover ghostly tales and haunted sites with A Haunting Experience Tours in Prescott, a perfect blend of history and the supernatural.
Essential places to dine
Casa Sanchez Restaurant
2.8 km
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Dry Gulch Steakhouse
2.8 km
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LaBruzza's Italian Ristorante
3.1 km
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Waffles-N-More
3.1 km
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Unsui Japanese Restaurant
3.2 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Unsui Restaurant in Prescott; enjoy fresh sushi and traditional dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
Torme
3.5 km
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BiGA.
3.8 km
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Salt & Pepper Cafe
4.0 km
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The Local Prescott
4.3 km
Experience delightful breakfasts and brunches at The Local Prescott – where delicious meets diverse dietary needs in a cozy café setting.
That Apple Pan
4.3 km
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Rosa's Pizzeria (Prescott)
4.6 km
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Dinner Bell Cafe
4.6 km
Experience the warmth of home-style cooking at Dinner Bell Cafe in Prescott - your go-to spot for delicious breakfasts and cozy lunches.
El Gato Azul
4.7 km
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Gurley St Grill
4.7 km
Experience classic American dining at Gurley St Grill in Prescott – where delicious burgers meet vibrant atmosphere!
Triple Creek Kitchen and Spirits
4.7 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Imperfectly Unbroken
2.9 km
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Iron Springs - Goodwill - Retail Store and Donation Center
3.1 km
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Big 5 Sporting Goods
3.2 km
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Village at the Boulders
3.3 km
Explore the Village at the Boulders, Prescott's vibrant shopping mall featuring unique stores, dining options, and stunning landscapes.
C-A-L Ranch Stores
3.7 km
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The Lookout & Hallmark - Formerly Jay's Bird Barn
3.9 km
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SugarPine Home Furnishings and Lifestyle Boutique
4.0 km
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The Vintage Shop - Uncle Al's Thriftique
4.5 km
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Magpie home & gift
4.6 km
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Fancy That
4.7 km
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Fallon’s Down Home Vintage Prescott
4.7 km
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What Ever Was
4.7 km
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Carrie Weldon Gallery & Boutique
4.7 km
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PATiNA
4.8 km
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Classy N Sassy Boutique
4.8 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Mark’s Beer Garden
2.9 km
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The Windsock Lounge
3.1 km
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JJ's Smiles On Tap
4.5 km
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Sam's Bar
4.7 km
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Prescott Public House
4.7 km
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The Point Bar and Lounge
4.8 km
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Back Alley Wine Bar
4.8 km
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Jersey Lilly Saloon
4.8 km
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Matt's Saloon
4.8 km
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Bird Cage Saloon
4.8 km
Experience the lively ambiance of the Bird Cage Saloon in Prescott, Arizona, where live music and great drinks create unforgettable nights.
1881 Spirits
4.8 km
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VINO Wine Bar
4.8 km
Experience the elegance of fine wines and exquisite cuisine at VINO Wine Bar in Prescott, Arizona, a must-visit for discerning travelers.
Whiskey River Tavern
4.9 km
Discover the heart of Prescott's nightlife at Whiskey River Tavern, featuring live music, craft beers, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Prescott Night Out
4.9 km
Discover Prescott Night Out, a lively venue combining live music, delicious dining, and a dance club experience in the heart of Arizona.
Lyzzard's Lounge
4.9 km
Experience Prescott's vibrant nightlife at Lyzzard's Lounge, where expertly crafted cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere await you.
