Hiking Trails
Lake Pleasant Regional Park offers approximately 18.8 miles of trails designated for hiking and pedestrian use. Trail lengths range from 0.5 mile to 4.4 miles, with most trails rated moderate in difficulty.
Pipeline Canyon Trail
The Pipeline Canyon Trail is the park’s primary hiking destination, offering scenic views of the desert landscape and Lake Pleasant shoreline. Because Lake Pleasant is a reservoir, water levels can change throughout the year. At times, portions of the trail may be temporarily submerged due to seasonal rainfall or water releases from the Central Arizona Project (CAP).
Discovery Center Trail
The Discovery Center Trail is an easy, half-mile trail that connects the Roadrunner Campground to the Discovery Center.
Features include:
- Short loop connections
- Interpretive signs about the Sonoran Desert
- Scenic desert surroundings
Trail access is located at the northwest corner of the Discovery Center parking lot.
Roadrunner Trail
The Roadrunner Trail is a 1.5-mile scenic trail overlooking Lake Pleasant. It connects the Discovery Center with Picnic Areas A and B and the 10-Lane Boat Ramp.
Several smaller paths branch off from this trail and provide access to the shoreline.
Trail access is located at the northeast corner of the Discovery Center parking lot.
Plan Ahead
Before heading out on the trail:
- Carry plenty of water.
- Wear sun protection and appropriate footwear.
- Let someone know your planned route and expected return time.