Marshall Lake which is really more of a marsh with pockets of open water than a lake, supports a wide variety of wildlife. Elk, deer, wild turkey and pronghorn antelope can be found up here on Anderson Mesa. Waterfowl, osprey, smaller hawks and other birds are abundant so keep a sharp eye while near the trailhead. Start at the trailhead and enjoy the great vistas and occasional view of the San Francisco Peaks and the grassy upland of the mesa. Once the trail starts down the short switchbacks watch for elk as they frequent the water hole at the bottom.
No motorized vehicles on the trail and you might be sharing the trail with horseback riders . If you do encounter horses, step off the trail on the downhill side and talk to the rider and animal. Let them pass unless the trail boss or rider gives you different instructions.
So grab some water and some snacks and hit the trail.