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Lakeside Backpacking Spots?
Posted: Jun 17 2017 11:14 am
by hanmart
Anyone know of any nice lakeside backpacking destinations, in cooler summer areas, that are away from crowds? Do these exist in AZ?
Re: Lakeside Backpacking Spots?
Posted: Jun 17 2017 7:44 pm
by nonot
Some of the smaller lakes in Colorado you can find solitude. Generally not in Arizona. If someone knows of a lake, they're keeping it closely guarded. It does seem though that if you buy a San Carlos Reservation permit you will thin out the crowds somewhat, I have never tried.
There are some lakes with no good roads that you can backpack in for somewhat sparser population, but I've always seen somebody on my trips. Chevelon canyon and blue ridge reservoir for example.
On lake powell there are lots of coves, so you can find one to yourself. Most are not good for a backpack.
Re: Lakeside Backpacking Spots?
Posted: Jun 17 2017 8:14 pm
by Grasshopper
@nonot Thanks for clearing that up. I was first thinking the reference was for around Lakeside, AZ
Re: Lakeside Backpacking Spots?
Posted: Jun 17 2017 10:40 pm
by Al_HikesAZ
The old joke is that Arizona has more lakes than Minnesota. We just don't have any water. So yeah, there are thousands of great, private, remote lakeside backpacking trips - unless you need water in your lakes.
Re: Lakeside Backpacking Spots?
Posted: Jun 18 2017 5:03 am
by azbackpackr
Chevelon Lake. If you like rivers, the Black River's Mainstem can be walked along for about 20 miles, without having to mess with reservation permits. Mostly you won't see anyone but you have to hike in water shoes, since you will be crossing the river (knee to thigh deep in summer, usually) about every 10 to 20 minutes.) The trail will lead to the river, look up and down the opposite bank for a giant cairn, and walk to that, the trail will start up again. It's a horse pack trail. And even if you hate hiking with two poles, you will need them for the crossings, so bring them. You can also hike along the Blue River, at the end of the Blue River Road, for many miles.
Re: Lakeside Backpacking Spots?
Posted: Jun 19 2017 6:53 pm
by hanmart
Al_HikesAZ wrote:The old joke is that Arizona has more lakes than Minnesota. We just don't have any water. So yeah, there are thousands of great, private, remote lakeside backpacking trips - unless you need water in your lakes.
That's what I thought might be the case!
Thanks everyone for the great ideas. I'm going to research the options you listed.
