Cerbat Foothills Recreation Area - Image 1
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Cerbat Foothills Recreation Area

4.5
·170 reviews·Kingman, United States

Explore dramatic volcanic landscapes and diverse trails in this Kingman hidden gem. Perfect for hiking, photography, and rock climbing.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

April afternoons

Flowers in bloom, pleasant temps

CrowdLow
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Cerbat Foothills Recreation Area - Image 1

Cerbat Foothills Recreation Area

Best Time

April afternoons

Flowers in bloom, pleasant temps

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore dramatic volcanic landscapes and diverse trails in this Kingman hidden gem. Perfect for hiking, photography, and rock climbing.

4.5
(170 reviews)

"A hidden gem with miles of sporty singletrack through a dramatic volcanic landscape."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Access

Main access is from 93 East/Southbound. Some trails connect via underpasses. :car:

🥾 Trail Variety

Choose from easy loops to sporty singletrack. Many cutoffs for custom hikes. :hiking_boot:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Monolith Loop Trail

Monolith Loop Trail

Coyote Pass Trailhead

An easy, scenic loop with spectacular desert views and unique rock formations.

Monolith Gardens Cave

Monolith Gardens Cave

Near Coyote Pass Trailhead

A unique geological feature easily accessible from the main path, offering a quick exploration.

Sporty Singletrack Trails

Sporty Singletrack Trails

Various trailheads

Experience miles of dynamic trails through volcanic landscapes with slickrock and boulders.

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Planning Your Visit

Accessing the Trails

Most trailheads, like Coyote Pass, are easily accessible from Route 93. However, some, like Ft. Beal, require crossing the highway. Be aware that overnight RV parking is no longer available at the Coyote Pass trailhead.

Trail Variety & Conditions

The Cerbat Foothills offer a range of trails from easy loops like Monolith to more challenging singletrack. Scenery is dramatic volcanic landscape with slickrock and boulders. Check conditions, especially after rain.

Best Times

When
April afternoons
Why
Flowers in bloom, pleasant temps
Crowd
Low
When
Morning walks
Why
Escape the desert heat
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon hikes
Why
Golden hour views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

A late afternoon hike with our littles #teambeasleyadventures #cerbatfoothillsrecreationarea #solomomhustle #hikingwiththebabes
teambeasleyadventures
6 likes • 241 views

🚗 Parking Access

Main access is from 93 East/Southbound. Some trails connect via underpasses. :car:

🥾 Trail Variety

Choose from easy loops to sporty singletrack. Many cutoffs for custom hikes. :hiking_boot:

Rolling back into Arizona after two months away. I found my new favorite trail system in the Cerbat Foothills Recreation Area near Kingman. Many miles of sporty singletrack through a dramatic volcanic landscape, complete with rhyolite slickrock, basalt boulders and alien cliffs. What a hidden gem! If you’re ever driving through Kingman, this is definitely worth exploring. Big thanks to the Bureau ...
aztmateo
51 likes • 693 views
Cerbat Foothills Recreation Area - Coyote Pass Trailhead, Arizona. Hiking outside Kingman, AZ. #adventure #travel #explore #arizona
arwendesigner
49 likes • 1.9K views

💧 Restroom Availability

A restroom is available at Coyote Pass Trailhead, though reviews suggest it can be basic. :toilet:

🏞️ Scenic Views

Dramatic volcanic landscapes, slickrock, and alien cliffs offer stunning photo ops. :camera:

Putting some climbing work in. #rockclimbing #climbing #bealewall #cerbatfoothillsrecreationarea #campbeale #bealesprings #ftbeale #ftbealesprings #kingman #mohavecounty
jon.sidewinder
6 likes • 56 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Access

Main access is from 93 East/Southbound. Some trails connect via underpasses. :car:

🥾 Trail Variety

Choose from easy loops to sporty singletrack. Many cutoffs for custom hikes. :hiking_boot:

💧 Restroom Availability

A restroom is available at Coyote Pass Trailhead, though reviews suggest it can be basic. :toilet:

🏞️ Scenic Views

Dramatic volcanic landscapes, slickrock, and alien cliffs offer stunning photo ops. :camera:

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Hikes

Monolith Loop is great for kids. Late afternoon hikes are perfect for families. :familywomanwoman_boy:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(170 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Cerbat Foothills Recreation Area for its spectacular desert scenery and diverse trail system, suitable for various hiking levels. It's considered a hidden gem with unique volcanic landscapes. Some note the restroom facilities could be improved.

"Great hiking trails for every level and ability. Plenty of parking here but you can only reach it from 93 East/South bound. I hiked here from across the highway at Ft Beal trailhead. Plenty of great trails here, scenic, quiet and you can also connect with trails across the highway via the trail under the highway."

JayBee

"Monolith loop is a nice easy trail. The scenery is spectacular.
There are many cutoffs, so you can choose how far and long you want to hike."

Dick Daigle

"Went to the "cave" right off the path. Very close to the parking lot, easy to access.
The bathroom is extra gross, but i kind of expect that from park bathrooms"

Destiny Frye

What People Like

Spectacular desert scenery
Diverse trail options
Unique volcanic landscapes

What People Dislike

Basic restroom facilities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The main access point, Coyote Pass Trailhead, is located right off Route 93 just north of Kingman, AZ. You can reach it from 93 East/Southbound. Some trails also connect from across the highway via an underpass. Reddit

Yes, there is adequate free parking at the Coyote Pass Trailhead. Reddit

Unfortunately, overnight RV parking is no longer permitted at the Coyote Pass Trailhead, as the area has been closed off. Reddit

Yes, besides Coyote Pass, you can also access trails from the Ft. Beal trailhead, which may require crossing the highway. Reddit

The recreation area is located just outside of Kingman, Arizona. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the Cerbat Foothills Recreation Area is generally free, with ample free parking available at the main trailheads. Reddit

While specific hours aren't always posted, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and the best experience. Early mornings and late afternoons are popular. Instagram

No, tickets are not required for entry. It's a public recreation area. Reddit

Typically, no special permits are required for day hiking in the Cerbat Foothills Recreation Area. Reddit

For activities like rock climbing, it's always a good idea to check with local authorities or land managers for any specific regulations or permits. Instagram

🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience

You'll find a variety of trails, from easy, scenic loops like the Monolith Loop to more challenging, sporty singletrack through volcanic landscapes. There are many cutoffs to customize your hike length. InstagramReddit

Yes, the Monolith Loop is a nice, easy trail suitable for families. Late afternoon hikes are also recommended for younger hikers. InstagramReddit

Expect dramatic volcanic landscapes, rhyolite slickrock, basalt boulders, and striking cliffs. It's often described as a hidden gem with spectacular desert views. InstagramReddit

A restroom is available at the Coyote Pass Trailhead, though visitor feedback suggests it can be quite basic. Reddit

Yes, you can connect with trails on the other side of the highway via the trail that goes under the highway. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The dramatic volcanic landscapes, unique rock formations, and expansive desert views offer fantastic photo opportunities. The 'alien cliffs' are particularly striking. Instagram

Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light that enhances the desert scenery. Early mornings are also good for softer light and fewer crowds. Instagram

The Monolith Gardens Cave and the unique rock formations along the Monolith Loop are popular subjects. The overall volcanic terrain provides a dramatic backdrop. Reddit

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) or local authorities regarding drone operation in recreation areas. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive desert vistas, while a telephoto lens can be useful for isolating interesting rock formations or distant views. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Cerbat Foothills Recreation Area is a great spot for families looking for outdoor adventure. The Monolith Loop Trail is a perfect choice for younger hikers, offering easy terrain and engaging scenery. InstagramReddit Visiting in the late afternoon can be ideal, as the temperatures are more comfortable for children, and the changing light creates a magical atmosphere. Instagram Pack plenty of water and snacks, and consider exploring the easily accessible Monolith Gardens Cave for a quick, exciting detour. Reddit

⛰️ Hikers & Trail Runners

For those who love to hit the trails, the Cerbat Foothills offer a diverse range of options. You can enjoy leisurely strolls on the Monolith Loop or challenge yourself on the sporty singletrack trails that weave through the dramatic volcanic terrain. InstagramReddit The ability to customize hike lengths using various cutoffs means you can tailor your outing to your fitness level and time constraints. Reddit Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best conditions, avoiding the midday heat and offering beautiful light for your adventures. Instagram

📸 Photographers

Photographers will find the Cerbat Foothills Recreation Area a treasure trove of unique landscapes. The dramatic volcanic formations, including slickrock and 'alien cliffs,' offer striking compositions. Instagram The golden hour during late afternoons is particularly magical, bathing the desert in warm light and creating dramatic shadows. InstagramReddit Don't miss the chance to capture the expansive desert vistas and the intriguing Monolith Gardens Cave. Reddit A wide-angle lens is recommended to encompass the vastness of the scenery. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Trails

The Cerbat Foothills Recreation Area boasts a network of trails catering to various skill levels. For a relaxed experience, the Monolith Loop Trail offers stunning scenery without strenuous effort, making it a favorite for families and casual walkers. Reddit If you're seeking more adventure, the area features sporty singletrack that winds through a dramatic volcanic landscape, complete with rhyolite slickrock and basalt boulders. Instagram Many trails have cutoffs, allowing you to easily adjust the length and difficulty of your hike, ensuring you can tailor the experience to your preferences. Reddit

For those looking for unique geological features, the Monolith Gardens Cave is a notable spot, easily accessible from the main paths near the Coyote Pass Trailhead. Reddit Hikers can also connect trails across Route 93 via an underpass, expanding the exploration possibilities. Reddit Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as some sections can be rocky or uneven. Instagram

Rock Climbing Opportunities

The Cerbat Foothills Recreation Area is also a destination for rock climbing enthusiasts. Areas like Camp Beale and Beale Springs offer opportunities for climbers to test their skills on the local rock formations. Instagram The dramatic volcanic terrain provides a unique and challenging environment for bouldering and climbing. Instagram

While specific climbing routes and conditions can vary, the area's rugged nature suggests a range of difficulties. Climbers should always prioritize safety, use appropriate gear, and be aware of local regulations. Instagram It's recommended to consult with local climbing resources or experienced individuals for detailed information on routes and safety practices within the Cerbat Foothills.

Best Times for Visiting

To make the most of your visit to the Cerbat Foothills Recreation Area, timing is key. Mornings are ideal for escaping the desert heat and enjoying a peaceful start to your day on the trails. Instagram Late afternoons are also highly recommended, especially for photographers, as the golden hour light casts a beautiful glow over the volcanic landscapes. InstagramReddit This time also offers a pleasant temperature for hiking. Instagram

During mid-April, the area can be particularly beautiful with flowers in bloom, adding a splash of color to the desert scenery. Reddit While generally not overly crowded, visiting during weekdays or slightly off-peak hours can offer a more serene experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the quiet beauty of this hidden gem. Instagram