Mokaac Trail, Mohave

Parks in Arizona

Mokaac Trail

Photo: brewbooks from near Seattle, USA / CC BY-SA 2.0

Parks 5,085 ft Bortle 2 Solitude: 75/100 (remote)
Scenic views, chance wildlife sightings, and a sense of history await you on the Mokaac Trail.    Visitors can enjoy a beginner to intermediate hiking experience on this two-mile route.  The Mokaac Trail was once a well-traveled, two track route and part of an old road from the 1900’s that led to the western portion of the Arizona Strip. The trail is no longer a part of the active road system but remains a symbol of earlier times and modes of transportation, including the Model T, which some Arizona Strip settlers used to reach their cabins and ranches from the City of St. George, Utah. The Civilian Conservation Corp made improvements to the old road in the 1930’s. The trail was later converted to a singletrack route that now parallels BLM road 1069.   Pronounced “Moa-a-ak” or “Mok-ee-ak,” the name is derived from an American Indian word for a nearby mountain.  The trail consists of crumbly rock and hard pack dirt suitable for beginner and intermediate hikers. The western portion of the trail is along a gradual downhill slope, but the route is easy to follow and provides visitors with a pleasant hiking experience, especially during one of the Arizona Strip’s classically beautiful and sunny days. The eastern section, located on the opposite side of BLM road 1069, has an uphill climb and is not as clearly defined. The short climb along the eastern portion of the trail meanders through stands of fragrant juniper, guiding visitors to tranquil views to the north of the City of St. George, the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area , and the Dixie National Forest Pine Valley Recreation Area from slightly higher elevations.  Hours and Seasons The Mokaac Trail is open to the public all year and free of charge. The best time to visit is spring, fall, and winter or early morning during summer months. Features and Services  Access and Parking : The parking area consists of hard-packed ground. Trailers not advised. 4WD vehicle needed. Drinking Water: There is no drinking water available. Bring plenty of water. Toilets : Not available Cell Phone and Internet : Not reliable Pets : Hikers with dogs should yield to all other trail users. While leashes are not required on all trails, visitors should keep dogs close and under control when passing other hikers, children, horses, or other dogs. Nearby Attractions and Amenities : There are many things to do and places to stay while visiting the Arizona Strip. Nearby public lands include BLM Utah's Red Mountain Wilderness , Red Cliffs National Conservation Area , and Dixie National Forest’s Pine Valley Ranger District . Safety and Conditions  You are responsible for your own safety. Call 911 to contact local law enforcement, obtain emergency services, or report a fire. While enjoying your visit, keep in mind that there is no first aid available on-site. Let someone know where you are and what to do if you do not return on time.  Expect potential hazards such as venomous reptiles and invertebrates, extreme heat or cold, and flash floods. Be prepared for changes in weather and stay informed on weather warning alerts. Make sure you have the appropriate gear, food and water.  Respect and Protect The area is home to many species of wildlife. Please remember to practice outdoor ethics and recreate responsibly. Help us protect this unique environment by leaving no trace during your visit.  Check for fire restrictions before your visit. Using exploding targets, fireworks, sky lanterns, tracer ammunition and other incendiary devices is prohibited on BLM-managed public land in Arizona.  Report crimes to resources including vandalism, dumping and suspicious activity at 1-800-637-9152. 

Near Littlefield, AZ in Arizona

What to Pack for Mokaac Trail, Mohave

Pack with the terrain and wildlife in mind, and you'll be ready for anything here.

A well-prepared pack for Mokaac Trail covers 4 categories: essential, wildlife gear, climate gear, terrain gear.

Essential

  • Water (minimum 2L) — Even cool-weather hiking demands steady hydration, as exertion and altitude increase water loss faster than most expect.
  • Navigation (map/GPS/compass) — Even well-marked trails have confusing junctions, especially in fog or snow; a GPS unit or downloaded map keeps you on route.
  • Sun protection (sunglasses, sunscreen) — Quality sunglasses prevent snow blindness and reduce eye strain during long days on exposed trails or ridgelines.
  • First aid kit — Adhesive bandages, antiseptic, and athletic tape handle the most common trail injuries and weigh under a pound.
  • Extra food — Blood sugar drops fast during sustained effort outdoors, and having a reserve keeps your body and mind sharp.
  • Headlamp with extra batteries — Batteries drain faster in cold weather; carrying spares ensures you won't be left in the dark when you need light most.
  • Fire starter — Starting a fire boosts morale and provides light, warmth, and a way to purify water in an emergency.
  • Emergency shelter (space blanket) — If an injury forces you to stop moving, a reflective blanket prevents the rapid heat loss that leads to hypothermia.
  • Knife or multi-tool — In a survival situation, a blade lets you process tinder, build shelter, and prepare food.
  • Extra clothing layer — Wet clothing accelerates cooling; a dry backup layer can prevent hypothermia when conditions turn.

Wildlife Gear

  • Bear canister — A hard-sided canister protects your food from raccoons, rodents, and other camp raiders too, not just bears.
  • Bear spray — Bear spray works on all bear species; keep it in a hip holster for instant access, not buried in your pack.
  • Bear bell — On windy trails or near streams where your voice might not carry, a bear bell provides constant, passive noise.
  • Hiking buddy (avoid solo) — Solo hikers are more vulnerable to predatory behavior from mountain lions, which typically avoid groups.
  • Noise maker — A loud whistle doubles as a rescue signal, serving both wildlife safety and emergency communication.
  • Gaiters — Beyond snakes, gaiters also protect against thorns, brush, and ticks in overgrown trail sections.
  • First-aid snakebite kit — A lightweight pressure bandage and marker for tracking swelling take up minimal space but provide critical aid.

Climate Gear

  • Layering system (wide temp swings) — Removing a layer before you sweat keeps your clothing dry, which is critical for warmth when temperatures drop again.

Terrain Gear

  • SPF50 lip balm — Reapply every 2 hours and after eating or drinking, as lip balm wears off faster than body sunscreen.

Seasonal Gear

  • Spring: Camera, Wildflower field guide
  • Fall: Camera, Binoculars (foliage viewing)
  • Winter: Microspikes/traction devices

Activities & Best Time to Visit Mokaac Trail, Mohave

The Forest terrain here lends itself to a range of outdoor activities throughout the year.

The mix of Forest terrain and Semi-Arid conditions here supports everything from backpacking, glamping, hiking.

The scenery here earns a 65/100 photography rating — Exceptional dark sky (Bortle 1-2) and 3 excellent meteor showers.

Activities

  • backpacking — Lightweight equipment and route awareness are key for safe travel.
  • glamping — It's ideal for those seeking scenery without roughing it.
  • hiking — With sturdy footwear and preparation, trails open up expansive views and quiet solitude.
  • horseback_riding — Guided rides are available in many parks and recreation areas.
  • ice_fishing — Portable shelters help protect against cold winds.
  • ice_skating — Ensure ice thickness and safety before skating on natural surfaces.
  • photography — Outdoor photography invites you to slow down and frame the beauty around you.
  • picnicking — Whether lakeside or in a meadow, it's a relaxed way to savor both the setting and the company.
  • rv_camping — Hookups and designated sites make extended stays convenient.
  • sightseeing — It's an accessible way to appreciate the character of a place.
  • walking — Perfect for all ages, a casual walk can turn any outdoor space into a relaxing nature experience.
  • wildlife_viewing — Bring binoculars and patience — nature often rewards careful, respectful observers.

Best months: May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Terrain: Forest — Expect cooler temperatures and higher humidity under tree cover. Wildlife habitat is abundant, especially in mixed hardwood or conifer stands.

Wildlife Safety at Mokaac Trail, Mohave

Before heading out, it helps to know which wildlife to be cautious around.

The danger score of 40/10 at Mokaac Trail accounts for Bears present, Mountain lions, Venomous snakes, Far from city (98mi) in the area.

Danger rating: 40/100 (based on terrain difficulty, wildlife presence, weather exposure, and remoteness) moderate
  • Bears present
  • Mountain lions
  • Venomous snakes
  • Far from city (98mi)
Altitude risk: mild
UV risk: moderate (Mid latitude (37N), Elevated (5,085ft), Forest canopy (shade))
Photo score: 65/100
  • Exceptional dark sky (Bortle 1-2)
  • 3 excellent meteor showers
  • Fall foliage
  • Spring wildflowers

Bears

Black Bear have been documented in this area. They're most active from .

Black Bear

Adults typically weigh 150 to 600 pounds, with males substantially larger than females.

If you encounter one, speak calmly, make yourself appear larger, and back away slowly without running.

  • Store food properly - use bear boxes or hang food bags
  • Keep a clean camp - no food scraps
  • Make noise while hiking
  • Never approach cubs - mother is nearby
  • Back away slowly if you encounter a bear

Venomous Snakes

0 venomous snake species are found in this area: .

  • Watch where you step and place hands
  • Stay on trails
  • Wear boots and long pants in snake country
  • Do not reach under rocks or logs
  • If bitten: stay calm, immobilize limb, seek medical help immediately
  • Do NOT: cut wound, suck venom, apply tourniquet, ice, or alcohol

Nature & Wildlife at Mokaac Trail, Mohave

The Forest terrain here supports a rich ecosystem worth noticing as you explore.

The ecosystem around Mokaac Trail is defined by its Forest landscape, supporting everything from to Northern Shoveler and Cedar Waxwing.

Shrubs (4)

  • Creosote Bush
    Creosote Bush — Bright yellow flowers bloom after rain.
  • Burrobush
    Burrobush — Forms rounded mounds in arid landscapes.
  • Eastern Joshua tree
    Eastern Joshua tree — The plant provides habitat for desert wildlife.

Other Plants (5)

  • Buckhorn Cholla
  • California Barrel Cactus
  • Plains Pricklypear
  • Silver Cholla
  • Common Fishhook Cactus

Mammals (1)

  • White-tailed Antelope Squirrel
    White-tailed Antelope Squirrel — Slender body adapted to hot climates.

Birds (30)

  • Northern Shoveler
    Northern Shoveler — Large spatulate bill
  • Cedar Waxwing
    Cedar Waxwing — Red waxy wing tips in adults
  • Brewer's Blackbird
    Brewer's Blackbird — Iridescent purple-green sheen
  • Canada Goose
    Canada Goose — Smaller cackling-type with shorter neck
  • Dark-eyed Junco
    Dark-eyed Junco — Pink-sided form with pale gray and buff flanks

Reptiles (15)

  • Common Side-blotched Lizard
    Common Side-blotched Lizard — Typically 4–6 inches long including the tail.
  • Mojave Desert Tortoise
    Mojave Desert Tortoise — Adults typically 8–15 inches long.
  • Desert Iguana
    Desert Iguana — Typically 10–16 inches long.
  • Western Whiptail
    Western Whiptail — Typically 8–12 inches long including the tail.
  • Desert Horned Lizard
    Desert Horned Lizard — Usually under 5 inches long.

Amphibians (3)

  • Pacific chorus frog
  • Woodhouse's Toad
    Woodhouse's Toad
  • Red-spotted Toad
    Red-spotted Toad

Insects (2)

  • Large Creosote Gall Midge
  • White-lined Sphinx
    White-lined Sphinx

Fungi (1)

  • Desert Shaggymane
    Desert Shaggymane

Other Wildlife (1)

  • Virgin Springsnail

Nature Bingo at Mokaac Trail, Mohave

Can you spot them all? Check off each species as you find it on your visit.

Wildlife Challenge

Botany Challenge

Mokaac Trail, Mohave Climate & Sun

The numbers behind the best (and worst) times to visit Mokaac Trail.

Month-by-month temperatures at Mokaac Trail range from °F to °F.

Climate type: Semi-Arid

Annual avg temp: 56.7°F

Annual precipitation: 13.7 in

With an average annual temperature of 56.7°F and 13.7 inches of precipitation, Mokaac Trail has mild, dry conditions. Summer highs average around 79°F, while winter lows drop to 38°F.

Best months to visit: Apr, May, Jun, Sep, Oct.

Month Avg Temp Precip
Jan 38°F 1.5 in
Feb 40°F 1.7 in
Mar 46°F 1.6 in
Apr 52°F 0.9 in
May 62°F 0.6 in
Jun 73°F 0.3 in
Jul 79°F 1.3 in
Aug 77°F 1.4 in
Sep 70°F 1.1 in
Oct 58°F 1.2 in
Nov 47°F 0.8 in
Dec 38°F 1.3 in

Daylight & Sun Times

Daylight ranges from 9.7 hours in winter to 14.7 hours in summer — a difference of 5 hours.

Summer: 4:14 AM – 6:54 PM

Winter: 6:39 AM – 4:19 PM

Winter Solstice: Sunrise 6:39 AM, Sunset 4:19 PM Golden hour from 3:38 PM
Summer Solstice: Sunrise 4:14 AM, Sunset 6:54 PM Golden hour from 6:15 PM
Spring Equinox: Sunrise 5:47 AM, Sunset 5:40 PM Golden hour from 5:06 PM
Fall Equinox: Sunrise 5:15 AM, Sunset 5:43 PM Golden hour from 5:09 PM

Mokaac Trail, Mohave Trip Planning & Access

Time to plan the details — access, cost, and travel information for your visit.

Access to Mokaac Trail is primarily via Las Vegas, 98 miles away.

Nearest city: Las Vegas (98 mi)
Estimated fuel cost: $24.55 (28 mpg, $3.5/gallon)
Carbon footprint: 79.4 kg CO2 (round trip by car)

Visitor Friendliness

Accessibility: dog-friendly (likely_allowed), family-friendly (excellent), elderly-friendly (highly_suitable).

  • Dogs: likely_allowed — No restrictions found
  • Families: excellent
  • Elderly: highly_suitable
  • Strollers: excellent (100/100)
  • Beginners: Perfect for beginners (Moderate difficulty (+5), Good information available (+5))
  • Accessibility: Generally accessible to most visitors (90/100)

Places Near Mokaac Trail, Mohave

Looking for more? Here's what else is close by.

The region around Mokaac Trail is rich with options — 8 nearby destinations are worth exploring.

Stargazing & Night Sky at Mokaac Trail, Mohave

Clear nights in this area reveal more stars than most people expect.

Light pollution at Mokaac Trail is Typical truly dark site (Bortle 2), which means bright constellations and planets are visible.

Bortle 2 Typical truly dark site

Constellations

Key constellations visible from this latitude include Ursa Minor, Cassiopeia, Cepheus.

  • Ursa Minor
    Ursa Minor — Visible throughout the year in much of the United States, Ursa Minor rotates steadily around the North Celestial Pole.
  • Cassiopeia
    Cassiopeia — Visible year-round in northern states, Cassiopeia is especially prominent in autumn evenings.
  • Cepheus
    Cepheus — Though its stars are modest in brightness, Cepheus is visible year-round from most of the U.S.

Meteor Showers

The Geminids peaks around December 13-14 and is the best meteor shower visible from here.

  • Geminids
    Geminids — peaks December 13-14 (excellent)

    Find a dark location away from city lights and give your eyes 20–30 minutes to adjust for peak rates.

  • Quadrantids
    Quadrantids — peaks January 3-4 (excellent)

    Look toward the northern sky after midnight for the highest activity.

  • Perseids
    Perseids — peaks August 11-13 (excellent)

    Expect fast, bright meteors and occasional fireballs under dark skies.

  • Eta Aquariids
    Eta Aquariids — peaks May 5-6 (good)

    Plan for early morning viewing; activity increases in the hours just before sunrise.

  • Delta Aquariids
    Delta Aquariids — peaks July 28-29 (fair)

    Southern states often see stronger activity due to radiant placement.

Planets

Planets visible to the naked eye from this location:

  • Venus
    Venus — The brightest planet, often called the Morning or Evening Star
  • Jupiter
    Jupiter — The largest planet, bright and steady in the night sky
  • Saturn
    Saturn — Famous for its rings, visible as a golden steady light
  • Mars
    Mars — The Red Planet, recognizable by its reddish-orange hue

Equipment Guide

  • Naked eye: Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, Mars, Mercury (with care)
  • Binoculars: Jupiter moons, Uranus, Saturn rings (barely)
  • Small telescope: Saturn rings, Jupiter bands, Mars surface features, Neptune

Viewing Tips

  • Check planets rise/set times for your specific date
  • Planets appear along the ecliptic (zodiac path)
  • Planets don't twinkle like stars - steady light
  • Venus and Jupiter are unmistakable - brightest objects after Moon
  • Use a stargazing app to confirm planet positions
  • Best viewing: when planet is highest in sky (transit)

Best Viewing Months

  • Evening: Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb
  • Morning: Jul, Aug, Sep

Seasonal Highlights at Mokaac Trail, Mohave

What you'll encounter here shifts with the calendar — here's a seasonal overview.

Seasonal changes at Mokaac Trail bring — each offering a distinct experience.

Spring Wildflowers

Peak bloom: April - May

Check local park websites for bloom reports

Fall Foliage

Peak color: September 15 – October 10

Best trees for color: Aspen, Cottonwood, Scrub Oak

At 5085ft elevation, expect peak 1-2 weeks earlier

Bird Migration

Spring peak: April - May

Fall peak: September - October

Best spots: Wetlands, coastlines, mountain ridges

Indigenous Land at Mokaac Trail, Mohave

The history of this land reaches back long before it became a recreation destination.

We acknowledge that Mokaac Trail is located on the traditional lands of Nuwuvi (Southern Paiute), Pueblos.

Languages

The languages traditionally spoken in this area include Southern Paiute.

Data from Native Land Digital

Mokaac Trail, Mohave Geology & Natural History

Beyond the trails and wildlife, Mokaac Trail sits within a landscape shaped by millions of years of geological processes. Here's what researchers and surveys have documented about this area.

Bedrock Geology

Rock Type
Basalt flows
Lithology
basalt
Age
Pliocene

Fossils

Fossil Occurrences
1
Unique Species
1
Oldest
283.3 million years ago

Mineral Deposits

Deposit Sites
12
Richness
Moderate
Minerals Found
Gypsum-Anhydrite, Copper, Gold, Beryllium, Feldspar, Mica, Uranium

Endangered Species

Species at Risk
2596
ESA Endangered
44
ESA Threatened
29
Conservation Score
100/100

Temperature Records

Record High
98°F (2021-07-11)
Record Low
-3°F (2011-02-02)

Wildfire History

This area has a relatively low wildfire risk, but always follow posted fire regulations.

Recorded Fires
77
Largest Fire
Hobble Complex (34,172 acres)
Most Recent
2024
Fire Risk
Extreme

Caves & Karst Features

Feature Types
Volcanic rocks with potential for pseudokarst features
Karst Score
30

Watershed

Watershed
Quail Draw
Water Quality (Good)
0%
Impaired
0%

Mokaac Trail, Mohave Safety & Conditions

Plans set? Check the latest conditions before you head out.

Up-to-date weather, fire, and flood information for the area around Mokaac Trail.

Flood zone: Not in a flood zone
Nearest weather station: ST. GEORGE 4.1 SSW, UT US (14.27 mi)

Coordinates: 36.82536, -113.57082

Packing List Safety Guide ↑ Top
Mokaac Trail
Arizona · 5,085 ft · Parks · 36.8254°N, -113.5708°W

Emergency Information

In case of emergency: Call 911

Nearest town: Littlefield, AZ

Bear country — Store food properly, carry bear spray (Black Bear)

Venomous snakes present — Watch where you step ()