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J.R.'s Field Guide

Rim Lakes Vista Trail

Easy4.2 mi loop200 ft gain

Runs flat along the very lip of the Rim, with a long drop into forest below. The best view-per-effort hike in Arizona.

Screen-printed illustration of Rim Lakes Vista Trail
Distance
4.2 mi loop
Elevation gain
200 ft
Difficulty
Easy
Trailhead
Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest

Before you go

Conditions, access, and honest warnings.

  1. Runs right along the rim edge with continuous views south over the Tonto Basin.
  2. Nearly flat and family friendly, but the drop-off is unfenced the entire way.
  3. Get off the exposed rim immediately if you hear thunder, this is a lightning corridor.

Trailhead park

Where this route begins.

Rim Lakes Recreation Area

Apache-Sitgreaves National ForestVaries by site