Arrowhead Trail

Why hike it

Arrowhead Trail is for hikers who like history, quiet, and wide-open desert. This point‑to‑point route follows a slice of the early Arrowhead Highway across Valley of Fire’s southern side, with red Aztec sandstone all around and the occasional panoramic look toward Lake Mead. It’s not the park’s flashiest path, but the solitude and sense of place are the draw.

Trail at a glance

Length is about 6.8 miles one way. Expect roughly 800 feet of elevation difference across the traverse—gradual if you go east to west, and a gentle descent west to east. The tread is natural desert with sandy stretches and washes. Traffic is light compared to the park’s headline stops, and signage can be faint, so bring your navigation game.

Route and highlights

On the west end, the trail starts just beyond the West Entrance and runs east to link up with the Elephant Rock Loop. Keep an eye out for preserved early‑1900s tire ruts—desert time capsules from the automobile’s early days. From higher points you’ll get broad views across Valley of Fire and toward the Overton Arm of Lake Mead. CCC‑built sandstone cabins sit nearby (not directly on the route), adding another layer to the park’s story.

Expectations check

This is a functional cross‑park corridor more than a red‑rock showcase. You’ll skirt the edge of the park’s flashiest formations rather than weave through them. If you want dramatic rock wandering in a shorter dose, the Elephant Rock Loop is right at the east end. Planning a bigger day that links multiple zones? Arrowhead makes a solid backbone.

Best time to hike

October through April. The trail is closed May 15–September 30 due to dangerous heat. Go early or late in the day for cooler temps and for the sandstone’s color pop at sunrise/sunset. Weekdays are reliably quiet.

Tips

• West‑to‑east is a mellow descent; east‑to‑west gives a gradual climb.
• Bring plenty of water, sun protection, and a GPS/track—washes and faint junctions can confuse. If you drift down the wrong wash near the east end, you can unintentionally leave the park corridor.
• Leashed dogs are allowed; the surface is sandy/rocky and shade is scarce.