Payson Lakes: Jewels of North-Central Arizona

Nestled amidst the pine-carpeted Mogollon Rim in north-central Arizona lie three sparkling man-made reservoirs known as the Payson Lakes. These high-country lakes have beckoned recreationists from Phoenix and beyond for over a century to explore their winding shorelines and seasoned waters.

A Trio of Lakes Born of Dams and Dreams

The Payson Lakes consist of Lake Mary, Mormon Lake, and Marshall Lake. Though the monikers may suggest naturally formed features, these lakes originated from ambitious dam-building projects in the early 20th century. The dams temporarily tamed the East Verde River, backing up flows into the reservoirs we enjoy today.

In the late 1800s, Mormon settlers were drawn to the lush lands surrounding the East Verde River where they grazed cattle, grew crops, and established farms. However, unpredictable seasonal flooding plagued their endeavors. This spurred efforts to control the temperamental waterway.

Construction on the Lake Mary Dam began in 1905, led by rancher and businessman Nicholas Snow. Mormon Lake Dam soon followed in 1923, funded by the Mormon Lake Reservoir Company. Marshall Lake, the smallest of the lakes, was created last with a dam established in 1928.

Though a costly investment, the payoff was three large lakes providing a reliable water supply for irrigation and new recreation opportunities in the region. Their creation marked the beginning of a new era for Payson.

Lake Dimensions, Elevations, and Fish Stocks

Though the trio of Payson Lakes share an origin story, each has its own unique contours and characteristics.

Covering 950 surface acres, Mormon Lake is the largest. This lake reaches depths of 43 feet and lies at an elevation of 5,200 feet. With multiple boat ramps and a marina, Mormon sees the most activity of the lakes.

Lake Mary is the deepest, plunging to 170 feet, yet is the smallest in area at only 125 acres. Perched at 6,000 feet above sea level, it exudes a remote, mountain lake ambiance. Undeveloped shorelines with secluded coves offer serene settings.

At 475 acres, Marshall Lake strikes a balance between its counterparts with moderately developed shores, a few fingers of water probing the forests, and a more social vibe at established picnic areas. Marshall sits at an elevation of 5,710 feet.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department oversees regular stocking of all three lakes with various cold-water fish species. Rainbow trout, brown trout, and Arctic char entice anglers in the spring and fall. Warmwater fish like bass, catfish, bluegill and crappie take over in the summer months.

Four Seasons of Recreational Enjoyment

The varied topography, fish, and elevation differences of the Payson Lakes provide a year-round spectrum of recreational delight for visitors.

Spring welcomes back the trout as melting ice leaves the lakes glistening under bluebird skies. Shoreline anglers jockey for casting room on the banks while boats troll the middle waters drifting bait and lures. Nesting osprey and bald eagles soar overhead.

As summer arrives, the energy amps up on Mormon Lake with waterskiers, wakeboarders, and pontoon revelers taking advantage of the warmth. On Mary and Marshall, paddlers and float tubers survey the shores for bass or bask in sunny solitude. prepare for summer holidays.

When autumn hits, crowds thin as kids return to school. Cooling water revives trout populations – a clarion call to anglers seeking solitude and a limit for the dinner table. Kayakers explore rivers feeding the lakes amid a tapestry of golden aspen leaves.

By winter, ice creeps across the lakes with fingers and patches before sealing their surfaces into frozen tables. Hardwater anglers bore holes through the ice to catch trout, bass, and panfish. Skiing and snowshoeing provide alternative ways to enjoy the dormant season.

Nearby Hiking Trails and Camping Access

While water activities abound on the Payson Lakes, exploring on foot unveils an entirely different perspective of the area’s beauty. An extensive network of hiking trails branches out from the lakes into the surrounding Tonto National Forest.

The Houston Brothers Trail connects Lake Mary and Mormon Lake with a moderate 2-mile hike. The trail crosses Houston Creek, which feeds Lake Mary. Trout fishing and swimming holes reward intrepid hikers along this offshoot route.

For those wishing to link all three lakes, the Water Wheel trail spans over 13 miles as it circumnavigates Mormon Lake then passes Marshall Lake on the return trip to Lake Mary. Several campgrounds and trailheads offer starting points along this scenic route.

In addition to hiking trails, visitors will find developed campgrounds ringing each lake. These offer RV hook-ups, tent sites, and comfort stations for overnighters wishing to maximize their time on the lakes. Dispersed camping is also permitted in allowed areas of Tonto National Forest.

Payson Lakes’ Lasting Allure

From the first pioneers who glimpsed forested land ripe for ranching along the untamed East Verde River to present-day families who flock hither on weekends, the Payson Lakes have drawn and dazzled visitors for over 100 years since their dams’ constructions.

The raw natural beauty and relaxed pace of life in Payson country continue tempting Phoenix dwellers ready to escape the oppressive summer heat. The variety across the three lakes – whether seeking solitude, society, or a sure catch – grants everyone a personalized mountain retreat.

Despite periods of drought and the inevitable maturation of the dams and reservoirs themselves, the timeless allure of the pines reflecting across these man-made lakes remains for generations to come. The Payson Lakes endure as treasured water jewels sparkling under the warm gaze of Arizona’s sun.

Conclusion

With their serene forest settings, cool waters, and varieties of recreation, the Payson Lakes deliver an easily accessible mountain getaway for Arizonans seeking to escape the desert heat. These man-made marvels continue to be treasured centerpieces drawing visitors to the Payson region.

Frequently Asked Questions