Below Horseshoe Dam on the Verde River is Bartlett Lake. The second largest lake in the Phoenix area, many fisherman prefer this lake because it gets a lot less pressure from recreational boaters and water skiers.

Like many of the other desert lakes, Bartlett's water level greatly fluctuates with the seasons. Much of the water is used in the Phoenix area for drinking and irrigation. The lake primarily fills from mountain snow melt in the spring. But the summer monsoons can also help.

The drive to Bartlett is very enjoyable and scenic as it drops down into the lake's basin. The winding 13-mile road goes through some beautiful desert with views of Four Peaks in the distance. It's a favorite of motorcyclists and day-trippers alike.

During heavy rain storms, the road is subject to closure from flash flooding. When in doubt, check the AZ Game and Fish website to see if the road is open.