The 5 Largest Lakes near Phoenix Arizona – Tale Of Travels

Arizona is a paradise for outdoor lovers who want to hike in the mountains, enjoy scenic desert views, and fish and swim in great lakes and rivers. Phoenix is ​​more than just the capital of Arizona. It’s also home to many large lakes that are perfect for swimming and beating the heat. Temperatures reach extremes due to the state’s desert and arid climate. The hottest temperature ever recorded in Phoenix was 122 degrees Fahrenheit, which perfectly shows us why these lakes are a blessing!

Read on to learn more about the largest lakes near Phoenix, Arizona and the things to do there.

1. Lake pleasant

As the name suggests, Lake Pleasant is pleasant! It’s a feast for the eyes with many activities available all year round (weather permitting of course!). Despite being an artificial reservoir, it is one of the most beautiful lakes in Arizona. Its surface is 7,500 acres and has an average depth of 70 feet. The deepest point in the reservoir is 170 feet. Like most lakes in Arizona, Lake Pleasant sits atop a mountain and hovers at an elevation of 1,700 feet. It serves as a water storage facility but is also a major recreation center for the city. You can choose between scuba diving, water skiing, jet skiing and fishing during your visit. The most common fish found in the water are Channel Catfish, Bluegill, White Crappie and Striped Bass.

2. Apache Lake

Apache Lake is considered Arizona’s hidden gem for its calm and relaxed vibe. If you hike up a nearby mountain or hill, you can clearly see how big and breathtaking it is. Apache Lake is less than an hour from Phoenix, which means it’s far enough to escape the business of this big city, but close enough to plan a short day trip. Its area is 2,568 hectares. Apache Lake is 240 feet deep and 1,900 feet high. You’ll find Apache Lake in the Tonto National Forest, which is a popular fishing destination.

3. Bartlett Lake

When the Verde River was dammed, it formed Bartlett Lake. This lake is surrounded by rocky mountains and deserts. Looking at the lake from above, it almost looks like a painting coming to life. Located less than 50 miles from downtown Phoenix, Bartlett Lake is a local recreation destination in the Tonto National Forest. It is 12 miles long and covers an area of ​​2,815 acres. The average depth is 100 feet while the maximum depth is 174 feet. There are 33 miles of shoreline that many people use for swimming and fishing in the shallows. You have a good chance of catching catfish, carp and sunfish. If you don’t like fishing, you can always bring a picnic basket and enjoy the scenic view.

4. Saguaro Lake

Another reservoir makes the list! Saguaro Lake was created by the Stewart Mountain Dam in 1930. There is a lot to do and enjoy in this lake, especially since the water is light blue. The surface is 1,264 acres and the average depth is 90 feet. Although not the largest lake in the Pheonix region, many people travel to enjoy the relaxing views. It is a 10 mile long, calm and clean lake at an elevation of 1,506 feet. Tilapia, perch and walleye are plentiful. If you want to enjoy a quiet day on the water without kayaking or swimming, you can also join an educational river cruise. Don’t forget to bring enough sunscreen and protective gear!

5. Canyon Lake

Canyon Lake is one of the better known lakes. Its water is a beautiful deep blue, with a red tint from the surrounding mountains and rock formations. Numerous public beaches allow visitors to enjoy the sun and cool water. The area of ​​this lake is 950 acres, one of the smallest in the area. However, its average depth is 130 feet. If you don’t want to swim but want to see Canyon Lake from an elevated spot, hike the Apache Trail off Arizona State Route 88. The best time to see the lake is during sunset and right in the dusk. A steamboat can take you on a tour of the lake and point out wildlife like bighorn sheep and bald eagles.

Next: