The best walks and hikes around Golden Valley

This guide focuses on Golden Valley in the Mojave Desert of Arizona, near the city of Kingman. The trails here explore the arid landscapes and rocky foothills of the Hualapai and Cerbat Mountains, not the regions with the same name in Minnesota or California.

Yes, the region has a good selection of easier trails. A great option is the Cerbat Foothills loop — Hualapai Mountains, which is a relatively short walk through open desert terrain that can be completed in about an hour and a half.

The hiking trails are characterized by classic Mojave Desert scenery. Expect open, arid landscapes with rocky paths, gradual climbs into foothills, and trails that wind through canyons. The ground is often sandy or gravelly with unique geological rock formations.

Most trails in the area are suitable for hiking with dogs, provided they are kept on a leash. However, the desert environment can be challenging for pets. There is little shade, and the ground can get very hot. Always carry plenty of extra water for your dog.

For a shorter outing that's manageable for families, consider the Camp Beale Loop Trail — Kingman. It's an easy route with some interesting historical context that offers a good introduction to the local landscape without being too strenuous.

The trails provide expansive views across the desert floor and surrounding mountain ranges. As you gain elevation on routes like the Castle Rock via Badger Trail — Hualapai Mountains, you'll be rewarded with panoramic vistas of the rugged terrain and unique rock formations like Castle Rock itself.

Packing correctly is crucial for a safe desert hike. Essentials include:

Water: Bring more than you think you'll need, as there are no water sources on the trails.

Sun Protection: A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are vital due to the lack of shade.

Footwear: Sturdy hiking shoes with good grip are recommended for the rocky and uneven terrain.

Navigation: While some trails are well-marked, it's always wise to have a map or GPS, especially on less-trafficked routes.

Most of the hiking trails in this guide feature natural, unpaved surfaces like sand and rock. For a flatter, more developed path, the Kingman city loop — Hualapai Mountains offers an easy walk that is more accessible than the rugged mountain trails.

Yes, winter is often considered one of the best seasons for hiking in this part of the Mojave Desert. The temperatures are much cooler and more pleasant for outdoor activity compared to the extreme heat of summer. Just be sure to check weather forecasts and dress in layers.

The trails around Golden Valley are highly regarded by the komoot community. Reviewers frequently praise the unique geological features, like those on the Monolith Garden Trail loop, and the sense of solitude and expansive quiet of the desert.

You can discover around 10 curated hiking routes in this guide, offering a mix of difficulties and lengths. The network includes everything from short, easy loops to more challenging moderate trails with significant elevation gain.