Canyon Lake

[Reavishiker]

We are headed out Saturday on the Second Water trail to Boulder Creek trail and then over to Canyon Lake for an overnighter. Has anyone done this recently? We are wondering about the terrain, trail, and the water level at Canyon Lake. This plots out about 6mi each way on my Topo software.

[joebartels]

Canyon Lake is up to capacity and open again.

Second Water is a good trail. It's slightly rocky exiting Garden Valley down to Boulder Creek, but nothing of concern. The main creeks are barely running but plenty of water for backpacking.

It's between 7-8 miles from First Water TH to Canyon Lake TH
http://hikearizona.com/decoder.php?ZTN=664

[hikeaz]

You might consider staying in the bed of Boulder Canyon down to the lake vs. taking the Boulder Trail; it is much more scenic, has some shade and you are likely to have water in the creekbed.
There is a pretty obvious (cairned in a big way) egress back up to the Boulder Trail about 3/4 mi.before the lake on canyon right.

[joebartels]

most definitely
http://hikearizona.com/decoder.php?ZTN=705

[chumley]

SRP publishes a daily water report for all the lakes/reservoirs on the Salt/Verde rivers. Shows water levels, boat ramps, runoff, etc.

It's a very useful resource on their website. Google "srp water report"

[nonot]

Taking lowest LaBarge Loop would be more interesting than the climb up Boulder Trail, but might make for wet feet depending on how much water there is in the narrow spot about a mile and a quarter from the marina, so bring a fresh pair of socks.