Canyon Lake and Mormon Flat Dam: An Arizona Desert Outing

I loved our view above Canyon Lake, but the loose scramble and sheer drop made it very different from a maintained overlook walk.

I loved this hike above Canyon Lake. From the top we could look down the lake toward the boats, campground and Palo Verde area, with a view of Mormon Flat Dam from one side. Being up on that rock with the lake below was absolutely beautiful.

The way we went was not a normal maintained hiking trail. It involved loose ground and a scramble that I found manageable, but the overlook itself had a very high, sheer drop. Those are important parts of the experience, not details I would leave out just because I loved the view.

For a hike in the area, choose a route from a current trail map and confirm that it is open with the land manager.

Canyon Lake and Mormon Flat Dam

Canyon Lake is the reservoir formed by Mormon Flat Dam on the Salt River. SRP’s lake and dam overview explains its place in Arizona’s water and power system.

The dam was part of a 1920s expansion led by Charles C. Cragin. Mormon Flat came first, followed by Horse Mesa and Stewart Mountain dams. Together, these projects increased hydroelectric generation and helped manage irrigation releases. The lake is therefore more than a recreation destination: it is part of the infrastructure supporting the Valley.

That context is useful when planning a visit. Water levels and access depend on operations and maintenance, not just the season or weather. Our evening above the lake was a past outing; current plans need to start with the closure information below.

Decide what kind of visit you want

A shoreline visit, boat outing and hike above the lake involve different access points and preparation. When recreation access resumes, choose the activity first, then check the relevant operator or land manager. A lake reopening notice should not be treated as confirmation that every surrounding trail or facility is available.

For a trip during the closure, consider Roosevelt Lake as a separate destination to research rather than driving to Canyon Lake and looking for an unofficial way in. Check its own conditions and directions; Arizona's reservoirs do not all share the same access arrangements.

Choosing a hiking route

Once we were on top, I found the path easier to follow. Getting there was the rougher part, and I would not describe the whole outing as easy or suggest it to someone expecting a developed overlook. Loose footing and that exposed edge need to be taken seriously.

Check the intended trail, permitted parking and current access before setting out. Avoid restricted dam property and do not follow an unmarked track simply because it appears to lead toward the view.

Carry water, sun protection, navigation and a light, and leave enough daylight for the return.

Planning an evening outing

If you stay late, choose a safe, permitted stopping place before dark and keep clear of roads and cliff edges. Plan the journey back as carefully as the outward walk.

Check current access before planning a visit

Access update checked September 26, 2026: SRP reports that Canyon Lake closed September 8, including boat ramps and access points, ahead of a drawdown beginning September 16 for approximately 16 weeks of inspections and maintenance. Read the closure announcement and project updates before making plans.

For surrounding trails, check Tonto National Forest alerts and confirm the specific route is open.

More photographs from this visit