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Nestled among the ponderosa pines of northern Arizona’s high country, Ashurst Lake emerges as a serene escape from the desert heat that dominates much of the state. This shimmering body of water sits at an elevation of approximately 7,000 feet, where crisp mountain air mingles with the gentle lapping of waves against volcanic shorelines. Located approximately 20 miles southeast of Flagstaff (35.0236° N, 111.4053° W), Ashurst Lake provides a perfect blend of accessibility and wilderness that makes it a treasured destination for both locals and visitors.
Accessible via Forest Road 82E off Lake Mary Road (Forest Highway 3), Ashurst Lake sits approximately 30 minutes from downtown Flagstaff and about 2.5 hours north of Phoenix. The nearest commercial airport is Flagstaff Pulliam Airport, roughly 25 miles away, while Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport offers more extensive flight options approximately 150 miles to the south.
Unlike many of Arizona’s larger reservoirs, Ashurst Lake is a natural lake that has been modified with a small earthen dam to increase its capacity. The lake was named after William H. Ashurst, an early settler in the region who arrived in the 1870s and whose son Henry Fountain Ashurst later became one of Arizona’s first U.S. Senators upon statehood in 1912. The lake has been an important water source for local wildlife and ranching operations throughout its history, and today serves primarily as a recreational destination managed by the U.S. Forest Service as part of the Coconino National Forest.
This modest lake plays a valuable role in Arizona’s water system by supporting local groundwater recharge and providing crucial wildlife habitat in an otherwise arid region. What Ashurst Lake lacks in size, it more than makes up for in natural beauty and the diversity of experiences it offers visitors throughout the year.
Ashurst Lake has established itself as one of northern Arizona’s premier fishing destinations, particularly for rainbow trout. The Arizona Game and Fish Department regularly stocks the lake with rainbow trout during spring and summer months, maintaining a healthy population that draws anglers from across the state. In addition to rainbows, the lake supports populations of brown trout and northern pike, with the latter providing exciting challenges for experienced anglers. Record catches from Ashurst include a 15-pound northern pike caught in 2007 and numerous rainbow trout exceeding 5 pounds.
The most productive fishing areas include the deeper waters near the dam on the western end, particularly for trout seeking cooler temperatures during summer months. The eastern shoreline, with its numerous submerged logs and vegetation, provides excellent habitat for pike, especially during spring spawning season. The northern coves offer good shallow-water fishing for trout during cooler morning and evening hours.
Seasonal patterns significantly impact fishing success at Ashurst. Spring (May-June) typically provides the best overall fishing as water temperatures reach ideal ranges and recently stocked trout are actively feeding. Summer fishing remains productive during early morning and evening hours, while midday success rates decline as fish seek deeper, cooler waters. Fall brings another excellent fishing window as water temperatures cool and fish become more active throughout the day. Winter ice fishing is popular when conditions permit safe ice formation, typically from January through February.
All anglers must possess a valid Arizona fishing license with trout stamp. Special regulations at Ashurst Lake include a six-fish aggregate bag limit for trout and a two-fish limit for northern pike. Artificial lures with single barbless hooks are recommended though not required. The lake is subject to the statewide prohibition on using live baitfish.
Local fishing guides can be arranged through outfitters in Flagstaff, though no permanent guide services operate at the lake itself. The annual Ashurst Lake Fishing Derby, held each June, draws competitive anglers from throughout the region and offers prizes in various categories.
Ashurst Lake accommodates various watercraft but with important limitations. Gas-powered motors are permitted but must operate at no-wake speeds across the entire lake, making it ideal for fishing boats but less suitable for high-speed water activities. Electric motors, canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards are particularly well-suited to the lake’s size and restrictions.
The main boat launch is located on the western shore near the dam and features a concrete ramp suitable for trailers during normal water levels. Parking accommodates approximately 30 vehicles with trailers, though this area fills quickly on summer weekends. A secondary, unimproved launch area on the northeastern shore provides access for cartop boats and kayaks but becomes unusable during low water conditions. Both launch areas include vault toilets but no running water.
Navigational hazards include submerged rocks and logs, particularly along the eastern shoreline and in the northern coves. During low water levels, typically late summer through fall, additional hazards emerge throughout the lake. No formal no-wake zones exist since the entire lake operates under no-wake restrictions.
No boat rentals are available directly at Ashurst Lake, though several outfitters in Flagstaff offer kayak, canoe, and SUP rentals. The closest boat rental services can be found at nearby Upper Lake Mary, approximately 15 minutes away by car. Ashurst Lake does not feature a marina or fueling station, so boaters must come prepared with all necessary supplies and equipment.
Ashurst Lake offers swimming opportunities, though no officially designated beaches or lifeguards are present. The most popular swimming area is located along the southern shore, where a gradually sloping bottom and clearer water create favorable conditions. This informal beach area includes several picnic tables and a vault toilet but lacks shower facilities or changing rooms.
Water quality is generally suitable for swimming, particularly in early summer. By late July and August, algae blooms can occasionally reduce water clarity and quality. The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality monitors the lake, and visitors should check for any posted advisories, especially following heavy rain events when runoff can temporarily affect water quality.
Beyond swimming, the lake supports numerous water activities with certain limitations. The no-wake restriction makes Ashurst less ideal for water skiing or wakeboarding but perfect for paddleboarding, kayaking, and canoeing. The lake’s relatively small size allows paddlers to explore the entire shoreline in a single day, with the northern coves offering particularly scenic routes sheltered from prevailing winds.
Windsurfing and sailing with small craft can be excellent during the reliable afternoon breezes that typically develop, especially in spring and early summer. The open central portion of the lake provides unobstructed runs, while more protected areas around the shoreline offer options when winds intensify.
No specific zones are designated for different water activities, but paddlers typically prefer the sheltered coves along the northern and eastern shores, while swimmers gravitate toward the southern beach area. All water sport enthusiasts should be aware that afternoon thunderstorms can develop quickly during summer monsoon season (July-September), creating dangerous conditions with little warning.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Northern Arizona, ~20-25 miles southeast of Flagstaff |
| Type | Small reservoir/lake |
| Management | Coconino National Forest, U.S. Forest Service |
| Elevation | Approximately 7,000 feet |
| Access | Via Forest Road 82E |
| Surrounding Terrain | Ponderosa pine forest |
| Primary Activities | Fishing, camping, boating, wildlife viewing |
| Fish Species | Rainbow trout (primary), possibly other trout species |
| Camping | Primitive camping areas available nearby |
| Best Fishing Season | Typically spring through fall |
| Water Source | Snowmelt and rainfall |
| Water Level | Variable depending on seasonal precipitation |
Ashurst Lake encompasses approximately 225 surface acres when at full capacity, though its size fluctuates significantly with seasonal changes and precipitation patterns. The lake has a maximum depth of about 35 feet near the dam on its western edge, with an average depth of approximately 15 feet. The shoreline stretches roughly 3.5 miles, featuring numerous coves and inlets that create excellent habitat for fish and provide secluded spots for anglers and paddlers to explore.
Situated at an elevation of 7,023 feet, Ashurst Lake’s high-altitude position contributes to its characteristic clear, cool waters even during summer months. The lake’s primary water source is seasonal snowmelt and rainfall, supplemented by small springs in the area. Anderson Mesa, on which the lake sits, is characterized by volcanic geology, with basalt formations and cinder cones visible throughout the surrounding landscape.
Water quality at Ashurst Lake is generally good, with visibility often extending 10-15 feet below the surface in spring months, though summer algae blooms can temporarily reduce clarity. Water temperatures range from near-freezing in winter (the lake often freezes over completely from December through February) to around 70°F (21°C) in the warmest summer months.
The surrounding terrain consists primarily of ponderosa pine forest interspersed with grassy meadows, juniper, and pinyon pine at slightly lower elevations. Anderson Mesa itself is a long, flat volcanic formation that rises dramatically above the surrounding landscape, creating breathtaking viewpoints overlooking the painted desert to the east and the San Francisco Peaks to the north.
Ashurst Lake sits within the Upper Lake Mary watershed, part of the larger Little Colorado River basin. The volcanic soil of the region creates interesting geological features, including the permeable basalt that allows water to move between surface and underground systems. This volcanic history is evident in the black basalt rocks that line portions of the shoreline and the cinder cones visible on the horizon. During periods of low water, curious visitors can observe the columnar basalt formations that speak to the fiery origins of this now tranquil landscape.
Ashurst Lake features a relatively modest earthen dam on its western shore that was constructed in the early 1900s and later improved in the 1950s. This embankment-type dam was built primarily to enhance water storage for livestock operations and to improve recreational opportunities in the area, rather than for flood control or hydroelectric purposes.
The dam measures approximately 20 feet in height and roughly 500 feet in length. Constructed using locally sourced earth and rock materials, the structure exemplifies early water management techniques common throughout the American West. Unlike the massive concrete dams that tame larger Arizona rivers, Ashurst Lake’s dam is a simpler structure that works with the natural topography of the land.
Management responsibility for the dam falls to the U.S. Forest Service as part of its stewardship of the Coconino National Forest. Regular inspections and maintenance ensure the continued integrity of this structure, which has withstood decades of seasonal freeze-thaw cycles and occasional monsoon flooding events.
The dam does not generate hydroelectric power, as its primary purpose is simply to increase the lake’s storage capacity and maintain a more consistent water level than the natural basin would otherwise provide. This stability benefits both recreational users and the established ecosystem.
While not considered an engineering marvel like some of Arizona’s larger dams, the Ashurst Lake dam represents an important piece of local history, telling the story of early settlement and the critical importance of water resources in the development of the region. It demonstrates the pragmatic approach to water management that helped transform the arid Southwest into habitable communities.
Environmental considerations have become increasingly important in the dam’s management over recent decades. Water releases are carefully monitored to maintain downstream riparian areas, and the structure includes features to prevent fish from being drawn through the spillway during high water events. Modifications over the years have focused on improving safety, reducing erosion, and enhancing fish habitat.
Public access to the dam structure itself is limited for safety reasons, though visitors can easily view it from several vantage points around the lake. During periods of high water, the spillway becomes active, creating an interesting visual element at the western end of the lake. No formal tours of the dam are offered, but interpretive signage near the main boat launch provides information about its history and function.
Ashurst Lake features a single developed campground, Ashurst Lake Campground, located on the southwestern shore. This U.S. Forest Service facility offers 25 individual campsites suitable for both tent and RV camping, though no hookups are available. Each site includes a fire ring, picnic table, and parking for up to two vehicles. The campground provides vault toilets, but no showers or running water are available, so campers must bring their own water supply.
The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation system in place. Sites typically fill completely by Friday noon during summer months and holiday weekends. The standard fee is $24 per night per site, with a maximum occupancy of eight people per site. The typical camping season runs from mid-May through mid-October, weather permitting, with a 14-day maximum stay during any 30-day period.
Pets are permitted but must remain leashed at all times, and owners are required to clean up after them. Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM. Generators may be operated between 8 AM and 8 PM only.
For those seeking a more primitive experience, dispersed camping is permitted in designated areas along Forest Road 82E at least 200 feet from the shoreline. These areas offer no facilities whatsoever, and campers must practice Leave No Trace principles, including proper waste disposal and fire management.
Visitors preferring more comfortable accommodations can find several options within a 30-minute drive:
For visitors seeking RV facilities with full hookups, the closest options are J & H RV Park and Black Bart’s RV Park, both located in Flagstaff approximately 20 miles away. These facilities offer water, electric, and sewer connections ranging from $45-65 per night, along with amenities like shower facilities, laundry, and WiFi that are unavailable at the lake itself.
Ashurst Lake and the surrounding Anderson Mesa ecosystem support a rich diversity of wildlife that varies with seasonal changes. The lake itself serves as a critical water source in an otherwise relatively dry landscape, attracting numerous species throughout the year.
The riparian and forest areas surrounding the lake feature ponderosa pine as the dominant tree species, interspersed with Gambel oak, juniper, and pinyon pine at slightly lower elevations. Wildflowers abound during the spring and summer months, including vibrant displays of lupine, Indian paintbrush, columbine, and Arizona sunflowers. The shoreline supports cattails, sedges, and various aquatic plants that provide crucial habitat for wildlife.
Birdwatchers will find Ashurst Lake particularly rewarding, with over 200 species documented in the area. Year-round residents include bald eagles, ospreys, great blue herons, and numerous waterfowl species. The lake serves as an important stopover for migratory birds, with spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) bringing dramatic increases in diversity. The western shore near the dam and the northeastern coves offer the best birdwatching opportunities, particularly during early morning hours.
Mammals commonly observed around Ashurst Lake include mule deer, elk, coyotes, gray foxes, and occasional black bears. Smaller mammals such as Abert’s squirrels, ground squirrels, raccoons, and various bat species are abundant. Dawn and dusk provide the best wildlife viewing opportunities for larger mammals, particularly along the eastern shore where forest meets meadow areas.
The lake’s waters and shorelines support diverse reptile and amphibian species, including western terrestrial garter snakes, short-horned lizards, and tiger salamanders. During spring evenings, the chorus of frogs and toads creates a remarkable natural symphony around the shallow coves.
Several sensitive species rely on the Ashurst Lake ecosystem, including northern leopard frogs, northern goshawks, and Mexican spotted owls in the surrounding forest. The Arizona Game and Fish Department and U.S. Forest Service maintain ongoing monitoring programs for these and other species of concern.
Conservation efforts focus on maintaining water quality, preventing the introduction of invasive species, and preserving the integrity of the surrounding forest ecosystem. Visitors will notice boat inspection requirements, periodic controlled burns in the surrounding forest, and restoration projects aimed at enhancing riparian habitat.
Nature enthusiasts can explore several interpretive trails around the lake. The Ashurst Lake Loop (1.5 miles) provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities as it circles the western portion of the lake, while the Anderson Mesa Trail (3 miles one-way) offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape and connects to the larger Arizona Trail system.
Ashurst Lake experiences distinct seasonal changes that significantly impact visitor experiences and available activities. Understanding these patterns is essential for planning an enjoyable visit.
As snow melts and temperatures warm, Ashurst Lake comes alive. Water levels typically reach their annual peak in late May or early June. Daytime temperatures range from 50-75°F (10-24°C), with nighttime temperatures often falling below freezing in April but moderating by June. Spring brings occasional wind events but also spectacular wildflower displays and the year’s best fishing opportunities. Bird migration peaks in May, making this an excellent time for wildlife enthusiasts.
Summer brings the most reliable weather and warmest water temperatures, typically hovering between 65-70°F (18-21°C). Daytime air temperatures average 75-85°F (24-29°C), with cool evenings around 50°F (10°C). The summer monsoon season brings afternoon thunderstorms, particularly from mid-July through August, creating spectacular cloud formations but also dangerous lightning conditions that sometimes force temporary lake closures. Water levels gradually decline throughout summer, and by September, the receding shoreline may impact boat launches.
Fall offers spectacular aspen colors in the surrounding forest, particularly in early October. Temperatures become highly variable, with pleasant days averaging 55-65°F (13-18°C) but increasingly cold nights that can drop well below freezing. Water levels reach their annual low point, exposing more shoreline and occasionally limiting boating access. Fishing improves again as water temperatures cool, and wildlife becomes more active during daylight hours as they prepare for winter.
Winter transforms Ashurst Lake into a frozen landscape. The lake typically freezes completely by late December, remaining ice-covered until March. Daytime temperatures average 30-45°F (-1-7°C), with nights often dropping into single digits or below zero. Snow accumulation varies greatly by year but can reach several feet during heavy winters. Winter activities shift to ice fishing (when ice thickness permits), cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing on surrounding trails. Road access becomes challenging and sometimes impossible without four-wheel drive and high clearance vehicles.
Water levels follow a predictable annual cycle, peaking after spring snowmelt and gradually declining through summer and fall before winter precipitation begins the cycle anew. Fishing tournaments typically occur in June and September to take advantage of peak fishing conditions. The annual Ashurst Lake Cleanup Day occurs the first Saturday in May, bringing volunteers together to prepare the area for the summer season.
A Coconino National Forest day-use fee of $10 per vehicle is required, payable at self-service pay stations near the boat launch and campground entrance. Alternatively, visitors can purchase a $40 annual Coconino National Forest pass or use valid America the Beautiful passes (including Annual, Senior, Military, and 4th Grade passes). Camping fees ($24/night) are separate from day-use fees. Arizona fishing licenses are required for anglers age 10 and older, available online through the Arizona Game and Fish Department or at sporting goods stores in Flagstaff.
The lake is open year-round, 24 hours a day, though winter access is often limited by snow conditions. The main access road (FR 82E) is not plowed during winter months. Seasonal closures may be implemented during extreme fire danger or for resource protection.
No permanent ranger station exists at Ashurst Lake, though Forest Service rangers regularly patrol the area during summer months. The nearest ranger station is the Flagstaff Ranger District Office, located at 5075 N. Highway 89 in Flagstaff, approximately 25 miles from the lake. This office is open Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 4:30 PM, and provides detailed maps, permits, and current conditions information.
No emergency services are stationed at the lake. Cell phone reception is spotty but generally available on the western shore and higher points around the lake (Verizon provides the most reliable coverage). Emergency response comes from Flagstaff with typical response times of 30+ minutes. For emergencies, call 911, but be prepared to move to higher ground for better reception. The nearest medical facilities are in Flagstaff, including Flagstaff Medical Center for emergency care.
Limited accessibility accommodations include one ADA-compliant campsite in the main campground and an accessible vault toilet near the main boat launch. The terrain around much of the lake is rocky and uneven, presenting challenges for visitors with mobility limitations. The main boat launch area offers the most accessible shoreline access.
No potable water is available at Ashurst Lake. Visitors must bring all necessary drinking water or filtration systems. The nearest supplies are available in Flagstaff, with Mountainaire offering a small general store approximately 15 miles west of the lake. No food concessions operate at the lake.
Pack-in, pack-out principles apply throughout the area. Dumpsters are provided at the campground entrance and main boat launch. These are typically serviced weekly during summer months. No recycling facilities exist on-site.
Fire restrictions vary seasonally and can range from Stage 1 (fires permitted only in designated fire rings) to Stage 3 (complete fire bans including charcoal grills). Current fire restriction information is posted at entrance points and available through the Coconino National Forest website or by calling the Flagstaff Ranger District. During unrestricted periods, fires are permitted only in designated fire rings or metal fire pans that prevent ground scarring.
Pets are welcome throughout the Ashurst Lake area but must remain on leashes no longer than 6 feet at all times. Pet waste must be properly disposed of in trash receptacles. Pets are not permitted to disturb wildlife or other visitors.
Ashurst Lake’s central location in northern Arizona makes it an excellent base for exploring numerous nearby attractions:
The vibrant city of Flagstaff lies just 20 miles northwest of Ashurst Lake, offering a charming historic downtown with numerous restaurants, breweries, and shops. Visitors will find all necessary supplies in Flagstaff, including several supermarkets (Safeway, Bashas’, Whole Foods), outdoor retailers (REI, Peace Surplus), and numerous gas stations. Local favorites for dining include Diablo Burger for gourmet burgers using local beef, MartAnne’s for authentic Mexican fare, and Pizzicletta for wood-fired pizzas. The Museum of Northern Arizona provides excellent exhibits on the natural and cultural history of the Colorado Plateau.
The small communities of Mountainaire (15 miles west) and Mormon Lake (15 miles south) offer closer options for basic supplies and casual dining. The Mormon Lake Lodge restaurant serves hearty steakhouse fare in a rustic atmosphere.
Within an hour’s drive of Ashurst Lake, visitors can explore:
The area surrounding Ashurst Lake holds significant cultural importance to several indigenous nations, particularly the Navajo, Hopi, and Western Apache. While no major archaeological sites are open to the public immediately adjacent to the lake, the entire Anderson Mesa contains evidence of ancient habitation dating back thousands of years. Visitors should respect any archaeological remains they encounter and leave artifacts undisturbed, as they are protected by federal law.
Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the extensive trail networks accessible from nearby forest roads, including segments of the 800-mile Arizona Trail. The Mogollon Rim, a dramatic 2,000-foot escarpment marking the southern edge of the Colorado Plateau, lies approximately 30 miles south and offers spectacular views and hiking opportunities.
Ashurst Lake offers a perfect microcosm of northern Arizona’s diverse natural beauty—a place where ponderosa forests meet expansive skies, where wildlife thrives, and where visitors can experience the restorative power of nature just a short drive from urban amenities. What sets Ashurst apart from Arizona’s larger, more developed lakes is precisely its modest scale and relative simplicity, providing an intimate connection with the landscape that larger reservoirs often cannot match.
The future of this special place depends on the collective stewardship of all who visit. As climate change brings increasing pressure on water resources throughout the Southwest, preserving the ecological integrity of places like Ashurst Lake becomes ever more crucial. By practicing responsible recreation—minimizing impact, respecting wildlife, and following regulations—visitors contribute to ensuring that future generations will enjoy these same experiences.
Whether you come to Ashurst Lake for the flashing silver of a rainbow trout breaking the surface, the bugling of elk at dawn, or simply the peaceful reflection of ponderosa pines on still waters, you’ll discover a landscape that captures the essence of Arizona’s high country. In a state often defined by its desert imagery, Ashurst Lake reminds us of Arizona’s remarkable ecological diversity and the precious value of its water resources—a blue jewel set within the emerald forest of the Coconino.