Canyon Lake Overlook and First Water Creek Canyon Hike

When you reach the top of this peak, you’ll be rewarded with what might just be the best close up panoramic view overlooking Canyon Lake—spread out dramatically below.

When I was on top of this peak it appeared to be the highest one close to Canyon Lake.

Our route takes us down into the rugged beauty of First Water Creek Canyon, where the towering canyon walls close in around you for some truly striking scenery.

See uploaded photos of the canyon and of Canyon Lake from the top of the peak.

From there, we’ll hike off-trail up to the summit pictured in the post. Due to being off trail there will be some bushwacking.

The climb includes a bit of light scrambling.

Once we return to the canyon floor we will wander up the canyon as time permits — giving us an even closer look at the canyon’s sculpted rock formations and natural beauty.

Hike details:

• Trailhead: About 1 mile before you reach Canyon Lake
• Distance: Approximately 4 to 5 miles round trip
• Elevation gain: Around 400 feet
• Pace: Steady and moderate.
• Important: The round trip hike from the bottom of the canyon to the peak and back will be around 3 hours. This leave us with about 1 ½ hours to walk up the canyon.

Meeting location: Leslie's Pools: , 1157 N Ellsworth Rd Ste 104-105, Mesa, AZ 85207.

We will carpool from the parking lot.

We meet at Leslie's Pools and then proceed toward Canyon Lake - drive time to trailhead about 30 minutes. The Leslie's pools parking lot is small. I will be standing next to my grey Mazda.

Suggestions: Bring hiking poles(s), pants, three quarts of water, plenty of food and treats for me - Chocolate is best.

MUY IMPORTANTE: The organizer of this trip is a VOLUNTEER, not a "leader." The organizer IS NOT trained in first aid and is not a bonded expert mountain guide. You will need to bring your own experience and judgment. If you want to enjoy the benefits of traveling in a group, then we suggest that you stay with the group on the trip. The event planners, leaders, and all organizers are volunteers and are not professional guides. They will not be held responsible for you. The function of the organizer is only to organize this event. Each person who signs up for and participates in our events is responsible for his or her own safety and the safety of his or her guests. You agree not to hold the trip planners, leaders, or organizers responsible if you get injured. By your confirmation of attending, you agree to the above terms and agreements. YOU are responsible for your own personal safety, and WE do not assume any responsibility or liability for you or your guests.