Mt. Wilson Wilderness - Missouri Spring Trailhead

Missouri Spring Trail follows an old two-track vehicle route for about 2.25 miles to Missouri Spring in Mount Wilson Wilderness.The route has gentle grades as it meanders through sparse Mohave Desert vegetation. After about 1.5 miles, the route enters a desert wash and is difficult to follow (following the wash itself beyond this point will lead you to the spring area). You may observe various wildlife species and wild burros in the area that rely on the water provided at these springs. The ideal season of use is between September and May, although early-morning hiking during the summer can be pleasant as well.

The area offers abundant opportunities for solitude and primitive recreation activities, although it is frequently over flown by tourist aircraft. Near the springs you may spot evidence of historic mining activities, including several locations where names and dates have been chipped into rocks. Continuing up the canyon from the springs, robust hikers can climb to Wilson Ridge and Mount Wilson, where you can enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Mead.

Adventure is at Your Fingertips

Geographic Coordinates

35.981384, -114.538895

Directions

A four-wheel drive vehicle is required to access the trailhead. Turn northeast onto the Temple Bar Road from Highway 93. This turnoff is about 19 miles south of Hoover Dam. Look for NPS Road #130, on the Lake Mead National Recreation Area, located on your left, at approximately milepost 10.8 on Temple Bar Road. Follow this trail west for 3.1 miles to trailhead parking.