Nestled in the stunning desert landscape of Arizona, Lake Havasu is not only famous for its clear blue waters but also for the diverse and scenic hiking opportunities that surround the area. Whether you’re an avid hiker or a beginner looking to explore while you’re in town, the trails near Lake Havasu offer a unique blend of desert beauty, geological wonders, and breathtaking vistas.
If you are planning a trip to Lake Havasu, we’ve got the perfect place for you to stay and a guide to some of the best hikes in the area.
Stay at The Place
Our luxury vacation rental in Lake Havasu, The Place, is the perfect place to relax and unwind between hikes. With space for a group of friends or the whole family, we have everything you need to enjoy your trip to Lake Havasu, including:
- 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms
- Garage converted to game room with pool table, air hockey, jukebox and arcade games
- 25 foot pool with water slide and hot tub
- Luxury kitchen and spacious dining area
- Outdoor BBQ and pizza oven
- Cornhole, Bocce ball, and a putting green
- HDTVs with streaming in every room
Ready to book your stay at The Place? Check out our availability today.
Best Hikes near The Place
After you book your stay, consider adding some of these hikes to your itinerary.
Sara’s Crack Trail
- Distance: Approximately 1.5 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
Sara’s Crack Trail is a hidden gem near Lake Havasu, offering a short but rewarding hike so you can enjoy some adventure without a major commitment. The trail leads to a narrow slot canyon known as Sara’s Crack, where hikers can squeeze through the rock formations and explore the fascinating geology of the area. The slot canyon provides a cool respite from the desert sun, and the journey itself offers panoramic views of Lake Havasu and plenty of photo ops.
Crack-in-the-Mountain Trail
- Distance: Around 5 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
For those seeking a longer and more challenging hike, the Crack-in-the-Mountain Trail is a great option. The trailhead is located in the Lake Havasu State Park and takes hikers through diverse desert terrain, including rocky slopes and sandy washes. The highlight of the hike is reaching a unique rock formation resembling a crack in the mountain, providing a great photo opportunity and some serious bragging rights.
Mohave Sunset Trail
- Distance: Approximately 1.75 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
The Mohave Sunset Trail is a family-friendly hike that showcases the beauty of Lake Havasu and the surrounding desert landscape. This well-maintained trail is located in Lake Havasu State Park and offers stunning views of the lake, especially during sunset (which is where the trail gets its name). Interpretive signs along the trail provide information about the local flora and fauna, making it an educational experience for hikers of all ages.
Havasu National Wildlife Refuge
- Distance: Varies (multiple trails available)
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
The Havasu National Wildlife Refuge encompasses a diverse ecosystem along the Colorado River, and several trails within the refuge provide opportunities for wildlife viewing and birdwatching in their natural habitats. The Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge Trail and Topock Marsh Overlook Trail are among the options, offering a chance to observe migratory birds, waterfowl, and other native species in their natural habitat. If you or your kids are animal lovers, this is a spot you don’t want to miss.
Cattail Cove State Park Trails
- Distance: Varies (multiple trails available)
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Cattail Cove State Park, located south of Lake Havasu, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with its network of trails offering a mix of desert landscapes and lakeside views. The trails wind through the park’s diverse terrain, providing opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying the serene beauty of the Colorado River. The park is also known for its water activities, making it a perfect destination if you want to go hiking during a summer Lake Havasu trip.
Badger Trail
- Distance: Approximately 3 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
Badger Trail is a scenic route that takes hikers through the picturesque Bill Williams River Canyon. The trailhead is located in the Lake Havasu State Park, and the hike offers glimpses of the river, interesting rock formations, and the chance to encounter local wildlife. The trail is especially vibrant during spring when wildflowers add a burst of color to the desert landscape.
Angel’s Trail to Devil’s Hole
- Distance: Around 4 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
If you are looking for a more challenging adventure, the Angel Trail to Devil’s Hole is a great option. It takes hikers to a remote and stunning location within the Lake Mead National Recreation Area. The trail leads to Devil’s Hole, a unique geologic formation and habitat for the endangered Devil’s Hole pupfish. Hikers should be prepared for a moderately strenuous trek, but the reward is a secluded and pristine natural environment.
Thompson Bay Loop Trail
- Distance: Approximately 6 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
The Thompson Bay Loop Trail is a longer hike that circles Thompson Bay on the Arizona side of Lake Havasu. This trail offers a diverse experience, traversing desert landscapes, washes, and shoreline. Hikers can enjoy the tranquility of the lake, spot local wildlife, and appreciate the changing scenery throughout the hike.
Whatever hike you choose, remember to stay safe and hydrated in the desert climate. And don’t forget to book a stay at our comfortable vacation home so you have the perfect place to return to at the end of your day of adventure.
