Prescott Circle and Badger Mountain Loop

The Prescott Circle Trail, which includes the Badger Mountain Loop, has about 15 trailheads providing easy access around the city of Prescott. Specific parking areas can be found at various points along the loop, often near major road crossings or parks. Check local maps for the most convenient trailhead for your starting point.

Yes, the Prescott Circle Trail network, including the Badger Mountain Loop, is generally dog-friendly. However, dogs must be kept on a leash at all times to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all trail users and to protect local wildlife. Always remember to pack out any waste.

The trail is considered winter-friendly, offering good conditions through spring, summer, and fall. While shaded areas on Badger Mountain can have light snow in winter, and open areas might be wet or muddy, it's generally rideable. Spring and fall often provide the most pleasant temperatures for riding.

The Prescott Circle Trail, including the Badger Mountain Loop, is jointly managed by the City of Prescott and the Prescott National Forest. Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required for day use on these trails. However, it's important to note that e-bikes are not permitted on sections of the trail within the Prescott National Forest, though they may be allowed on portions outside the forest boundary.

The terrain is quite diverse, featuring largely singletrack with some sections of pavement and doubletrack. You'll encounter riparian areas, lakes, unique rock formations, and mixed forests of ponderosa, juniper, and pinyon, alongside expansive grasslands. The route includes smooth paths, challenging climbs, and flowing descents with switchbacks. While generally well-maintained, some sections might be eroded or overgrown.

While the overall Prescott Circle Trail is rated intermediate to difficult due to its length and elevation gain, the Badger Mountain Trail itself is typically rated as intermediate or moderate. It's known for its 'speed and flow' and is considered a less technical alternative to other parts of the Circle Trail, making it a good option for riders looking for a more approachable experience.

You can expect spectacular and constantly changing scenery. From various points, you'll get panoramic views stretching from Thumb Butte to The Dells, Granite Mountain, the Granite Dells, Prescott Valley, and even the distant San Francisco Peaks. Badger Mountain, in particular, offers breathtaking views from the peak near Prescott's iconic 'P' landmark.

Yes, a significant landmark is the iconic 'P' (Prescott's landmark letter) located on Badger Mountain, which offers excellent views. The route also includes a section of the Prescott Circle Trail — Section 6, which is a highlight in itself.

Yes, this route is part of Prescott's extensive trail system and acts as an important connector. It utilizes a significant portion of the Prescott Circle Trail and also passes through sections of the Ranch Trail #62, Badger Mountain Trail, Turley Trail, Feldmeier Trail #330, Boyscout Trail #126, Seven Mile Gulch Trail #9854, Badger Turley Connector, Goldwater Lake Trail #396, Watershed Trail #299, and Goldwater Loop Trail.

Yes, the Badger Mountain Trail is specifically known for being a less technical alternative to other more challenging sections of the Prescott Circle Trail, such as the Boy Scout Trail #126 and the Turley Trail. If you're looking for a smoother, more flowing ride, focusing on the Badger Mountain portion is a good strategy.