Hiking in Arizona – at least, in the southern portion of the state – is next to impossible during the warmer months. Luckily, the higher-elevation terrain of the Mogollon Rim area remains cool year-round, so you never have to take time off from exploring the great outdoors. Not only does the Woods Canyon Lake Trail offer plenty of shade, but it’s also incredibly scenic and kid-friendly. This easy stroll is easily one of the best summer hikes in Arizona (but it’s worth taking no matter the season).

Nestled up near Payson, Woods Canyon Lake is a beautiful, 55-acre reservoir bound on all sides by the vast canyonlands of the Mogollon Rim.
AllTrails/Brook Boyer
The lake sits at an elevation of over 7,500 feet, making it an ideal destination for staying cool in the warmer months.
AllTrails/Udi Katz
Surrounding the lake is a 3.7-mile loop known as Woods Canyon Lake Trail. Offering plenty of shade as well as unparalleled views, the trail is easy and kid-friendly.
AllTrails/Mike Schneider
Most of the trail runs parallel to the lakefront, but some portions lead through the dense greenery of the Apache Sitgreaves National Forest.
AllTrails/Glenn Gray

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Both the towering trees and high elevation keep the heat at bay, making for a pleasant experience whether it's the middle of summer or dead of winter.
AllTrails/Hiking Arizona
You'll often see people enjoying the day on the water, as boating and fishing are allowed. If you'd like to join in, the lake store rents boats and sells licenses and fishing gear!
AllTrails/Greg Tivis
Interesting rock formations can be seen all along the trail, begging for you to pull out your camera and snap a few photos.
AllTrails/Glenn Gray
By the time it's all said and done, the trail has an elevation gain of around 150 feet. Even the littlest explorers shouldn't be too tuckered out afterward!
AllTrails/Hiking Arizona
Leashed dogs are also welcome on this trail, so you can make it a whole-family adventure.
AllTrails/Greg Tivis

Have you ever embarked on the Woods Canyon Lake Trail? What do you think are some of the best summer hikes in Arizona? Tell us your thoughts in the comments! Don’t forget to check out our previous article for more reasons to visit the Payson area during the warmer months.

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