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Lynx Creek Ruin Trailhead: A Journey Through Time and Nature

Discover ancient ruins and scenic hiking at Lynx Creek Ruin Trailhead in Prescott National Forest, a blend of history and natural beauty.

4.5

Explore the remnants of an ancient Native American culture at Lynx Creek Ruin Trailhead, where an easy hike leads to an interpretive area overlooking a prehistoric ruin, set amidst the scenic Prescott National Forest.

A brief summary to Lynx Creek Ruin Trailhead

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes for the uneven terrain.
  • Bring water and snacks, especially during warmer months.
  • Visit early or late in the day for cooler temperatures and better lighting for photos.
  • Check for closures due to weather conditions by calling the Bradshaw Ranger Station.
  • Consider visiting on a Wednesday for free entry.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Prescott, head east on Hwy 69. Pass the shopping mall on the right, then turn right (south) onto Walker Rd (by Costco). Continue south on Walker Rd for approximately 1.5 miles. The turnoff for Lynx Creek is on the left side of Walker Rd. A day-use fee of $5 per vehicle is required, but entry is free every Wednesday. Parking is limited, with space for only 8 cars.

  • Public Transport

    From the Prescott Courthouse Plaza, use the YAV Connect on-demand transit service. The YAV Connect service operates Monday to Friday, 6 am - 8 pm, and costs $2 or less per ride. Request a ride to the intersection of Walker Road and the Lynx Creek Ruin turnoff. From there, walk the short distance to the trailhead.

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Discover more about Lynx Creek Ruin Trailhead

Lynx Creek Ruin Trailhead offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue in the Prescott National Forest. The easy 0.75-mile trail leads to an interpretive area that overlooks a prehistoric ruin, offering a glimpse into the lives of the ancient people who once inhabited this land. The trail itself is an easy hike, making it suitable for families and hikers of all skill levels. As you walk, you'll be surrounded by towering pines and interesting rock formations. The trailhead is located on the south side of Walker Road, a short distance before Lynx Lake. The Lynx Creek Ruin, a hilltop pueblo, was occupied between A.D. 1150 and 1300. While the ruin is now mostly a pile of rocks, an observation deck provides views of the Mingus Mountains, the northern Bradshaws, and Granite Mountain. The area is also rich in gold mining history, with the initial panning along Lynx Creek yielding $4.80 in gold back in 1863. Today, the Lynx Creek Ruin Trailhead is a place where visitors can connect with nature and learn about the past. It's a reminder of the people who came before us and a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit. The trailhead provides picnic tables for visitors. Note that the site may close following heavy rain or snow, or when the roads are icy.

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