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Upper and Lower Lake Mary
Out of all the lakes in this feature, we’ve found that Upper and Lower Lake Mary are usually the most serene. That’s not to say you won’t find people jet skiing and waterskiing on Upper Lake Mary, especially on summer weekends, but it still has a country vibe. Upper Lake Mary is the largest of the two lakes (both built as reservoirs for the city of Flagstaff) at about 660 acres, while Lower Lake Mary ranges from 150 acres to pond size, says Patrick McGervey, recreation specialist for Coconino National Forest. “Lower Lake Mary is fuller than I’ve seen it in the last 10 years, but it just doesn’t seem to hold water,” says Patrick. “It was stocked by Arizona Game & Fish Department this spring, and there’s a boat launch. The lake accommodates boats 10 horsepower or less.”
On the upper lake, there are no boat restrictions, so you’ll see everything from rafts and kayaks to sailboats and powerboats. Boats can be rented at the nearby Lake Mary Country Store or at numerous outfitters in nearby Flagstaff. Swimming is allowed in both lakes, and there’s a nice beach near the Upper Lake Mary Boat Launch. Fishing is a big deal on these bodies of water, which are home to northern pike, channel catfish, crappie and trout. Wildlife viewing is also popular with bald eagles and osprey all nesting in the area. Along Lower Lake Mary, elk are frequently sighted. Camping is available on a first come, first served basis at the Lake View Campground, which boasts 30 sites. Campers can access the lake via Wood Memorial Trail, which runs under Lake Mary Road. And for those looking for a more remote experience, boat camping is also allowed. Pack your tent and supplies in your boat, head to the opposite shore and find a quiet beach to spend the night. (Patrick cautions campers to make sure their campfires are completely extinguished; several wildfires have ignited in the area due to irresponsible boat campers.)
For those looking for something to do off the water, there’s picnicking (ramadas and grills available) and road biking along Lake Mary Road. The 33rd Annual Mountain Man Triathlon (swimming, biking and running) happens July 9 and August 13. Though there aren’t many hiking trails in the immediate area, Arizona National Scenic Trail runs along Anderson Mesa and has views of the lakes.
Patrick says it’s hard to say how many people recreate at the two lakes each year, though 25,000 people used the boat launches between May and October in 2016. “The lakes are both so accessible – there aren’t many other lakes in Flagstaff that are located off paved roads,” says Patrick. “And people come here for the scenery. You have this big body of water surrounded by pine trees. It’s beautiful.”
This lake is your lake if:
• You’ve invested in a pair of high-power binoculars for birdwatching.
• You’re looking to set up camp away from it all.
• Northern pike: It’s what’s for dinner.
Upper and Lower Lake Mary are located along Lake Mary Road about 12 miles southeast of Flagstaff. The lakes are open year-round with full amenities May 5 through Oct. 9. Parking is $9 per vehicle. For information, visit www.fs.usda.gov or call 928-526-0866. Boats can be rented at Lake Mary Country Store, Trailer Park & Boat Rentals. For information, visit www.lakemarycountrystore.com or call 928-774-1742.
