Duration: 3 day stay
Best For: Families, outdoor adventurers
Start & End: Kingman, Arizona & Lake Havasu City, Arizona
Here's a weekend itinerary tailored for outdoor enthusiasts eager to explore the natural beauty of Mohave County, Arizona. This plan includes hikes through the cool pine forests of Hualapai Mountain Park, the desert landscapes of Cerbat Foothills Recreation Area, and the unique slot canyons of SARA Park in Lake Havasu City.
Begin your weekend adventure with an arrival at Hualapai Mountain Park (cabins are a two night stay minimum), located just outside Kingman. Once there, settle into a rustic cabin or set up camp beneath the towering pines. In the late afternoon, stretch your legs with a scenic hike to either Dinosaur Rock or Balanced Rock—both offering sweeping views of the surrounding mountain landscape. If you're up for a challenge, take on the Aspen Peak Trail via the Potato Patch Loop. This moderate 6.1-mile hike winds through lush forested terrain and rewards hikers with breathtaking vistas from nearly 8,500 feet above sea level. After a day of outdoor exploration, enjoy dinner at the Hualapai Mountain Lodge or savor a peaceful picnic under the stars.
Your second day leads you to the Cerbat Foothills Recreation Area, home to more than 37 miles of multi-use trails ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Start your morning with a hearty breakfast before heading out to explore one of the area’s accessible trails. The Camp Beale Loop Trail offers a 3.2-mile route through striking desert terrain and connects to other trails for extended adventures. For scenic desert views, consider hiking the Badger and Castlerock Trails, which can be accessed from Highway 93 about five miles north of Kingman. This trail system provides incredible views of the Sacramento Valley, as well as opportunities to observe a variety of desert vegetation and wildlife. After your hike, return to Kingman for a well-earned dinner and get some rest in preparation for your final day of exploration.
On your last day, rise early and head south for about an hour and a half to Lake Havasu City, where the adventure continues at SARA Park. Here, the Crack in the Mountain Trail offers a memorable 4.8-mile out-and-back hike that winds through a dramatic slot canyon and eventually opens up to the stunning blue waters of Lake Havasu. This trail is a must-do for outdoor enthusiasts and offers one of the most unique hiking experiences in the region. After your hike, enjoy lunch at a lakeside café or restaurant, soaking in the scenic beauty of the area. If time permits, relax on the beach, rent a kayak, or stroll through the charming London Bridge area. As the day winds down, begin your journey home, wrapping up a weekend of adventure that spans alpine forests, high desert trails, and slot canyons—an unforgettable outdoor experience in Mohave County.