Yesterday we hiked the Butcher Jones Trail at Saguaro Lake.

Hiking Butcher Jones Trail - Sunset view from Butcher Jones Trail,  Saguaro Lake, Arizona

The trailhead starts at the Butcher Jones recreation area.

Hiking Butcher Jones Trail - The beach at Butcher Jones Recreation area, Saguaro Lake, Arizona

Its approximately 3.5 miles out and back, skirting the lake from the beach at Butcher Jones to Burro Cove.

Hiking Butcher Jones Trail  - birds soaring over Burro Cove,  Saguaro Lake,  Arizona

There is access to swimming and fishing areas along the shore from the trail.

Hiking Butcher Jones Trail  - Dogs swimming in the lake at Saguaro Lake, Arizona

The trail is fairly easy, but there are some areas where it is quite narrow with loose rock.

Hiking Butcher Jones Trail  - Hiker and dog on the trail at Butcher Jones Trail,  Saguaro Lake,  Arizona

This is a dog friendly desert trail, but be cautious as much of the narrow trail is lined with cholla cactus.

Hiking Butcher Jones Trail  - Cholla cactus blooming along the Butcher Jones Trail at Saguaro Lake,  Arizona

If you are heading out in summer,  make sure to bring plenty of sunblock and water. I personally don’t leave home without my camelbak.

Hiking Butcher Jones Trail  - view of Four Peaks from the Butcher Jones Trail at Saguaro Lake,  Arizona

If you plan on bringing your dogs, its also a good idea to bring water for them and a collapsible water bowl. My big dogs generally carry their own stuff in their own pup packs.

Hiking Butcher Jones Trail  - Hiker and dog at sunset over the lake, on the Butcher Jones Trail at Saguaro Lake, Arizona

This trail is in the Mesa Ranger District of the Tonto National Forest. Don’t forget to get your Tonto Pass before you go.  They are $6 for a day pass, per vehicle. You can pick them up at most gas stations & convenience stores,  but they are not available at the lake.