Mike in the Wild

Prescott National Forest encompasses the highest peaks and mountain ranges that surround the population centers in the heart of Yavapai County.   But unique in this environment lies a serene body of water, Lynx Lake. At 55 acres, it's not as big as Phoenix's reservoirs or the damned lakes along the Colorado River, or for that matter even nearby Watson and Willow Lakes.  But ringed with ponderosa pines and offering miles-wide views of the nearby Bradshaw Mountains, it's a cool and scenic recreational escape for heat-weary desert dwellers living just an hour south. Boating, camping, hiking and fishing are just a few of the activities that Lynx Lake offers.  Bird watching is especially good, as various water birds, including cormorants, ducks and grebes call the area home.  On a lucky day, bald eagles and ospreys can be spied fishing along with human anglers.  Near a German-themed seasonal restaurant, wooden boxes house nesting western bluebirds while humm...