Crack in the Mountain Trail
Explore a stunning desert canyon, navigate a narrow 'crack,' and discover hidden rock arches and hoodoos.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Escape the desert heat
Crack in the Mountain Trail
Best Time
Escape the desert heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a stunning desert canyon, navigate a narrow 'crack,' and discover hidden rock arches and hoodoos.
"The trail is absolutely awesome, a little challenging but so rewarding. Beautiful views!"
Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable. Grab an offline map from AllTrails or the trailhead map before you go! :iphone:
Hydration is Key
This is the desert! Carry plenty of water, even on shorter hikes. Refill stations are available at the trailhead. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Crack Itself
Main trail section
Navigate through a narrow, awe-inspiring canyon that feels like a natural fissure in the earth.
Rock Arch
Offshoot to the left after exiting the crack
Discover a lesser-known, beautiful rock arch hidden just off the main path. A true geological gem.
Balanced Rock
Further down the wash towards the lake
Marvel at a unique hoodoo formation, a testament to the erosive power of nature in this desert landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Conditions & Navigation
Trail Access & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Planning a Mountain Bike Trip Early June - Need Advice on Destination!
Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable. Grab an offline map from AllTrails or the trailhead map before you go! :iphone:
Hydration is Key
This is the desert! Carry plenty of water, even on shorter hikes. Refill stations are available at the trailhead. :droplet:
Explore the Arch
Don't miss the rock arch! Hang a left after exiting the crack for a rewarding detour. :camerawithflash:
Wear Sturdy Shoes
The terrain can be uneven and rocky. Good hiking boots or trail shoes are a must for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable. Grab an offline map from AllTrails or the trailhead map before you go! :iphone:
Hydration is Key
This is the desert! Carry plenty of water, even on shorter hikes. Refill stations are available at the trailhead. :droplet:
Explore the Arch
Don't miss the rock arch! Hang a left after exiting the crack for a rewarding detour. :camerawithflash:
Wear Sturdy Shoes
The terrain can be uneven and rocky. Good hiking boots or trail shoes are a must for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Crack in the Mountain Trail's unique canyon experience and rewarding views. The trail is described as challenging but worth the effort, with hidden geological wonders like a rock arch and Balanced Rock adding to its appeal. While the main crack is a highlight, the surrounding area offers further exploration for those who venture out.
"The trail is absolutely awesome, a little challenging but so rewarding. Beautiful views! Canyon is so much fun to explore. It could be out and back or loop it depends if you want to go through the canyon again. Big parking lot with bathroom at the trailhead."
Kaja SWIEB
"About the only cool hiking area in Havasu. There’s been recent development of the area with changing trail names and mountain bike trails. Best area to hike in Havasu. A lesser known attraction here is the rock arch located at the end of the crack to the left."
KICKING ROCKS CLUB
"Very awesome trail. The crack in the mountain was cool. Be sure to hang a left after exiting the crack at 4456M to visit the Arch. Then return to the wash and head on down to the lake and visit balanced rock which is a cool hoodoo."
Matthew Butler
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trailhead is accessible via a paved road with a large parking lot. Overflow parking is available on dirt across the lot for larger vehicles or trailers. Signage clearly marks the trailheads.
Yes, there is a paved parking lot with approximately 20 spots, and additional overflow parking on dirt. It's free to park here.
Yes, the overflow parking area is suitable for vehicles with trailers.
Specific driving directions will depend on your starting point, but the trailhead is well-marked and accessible from the main roads in the Havasu area.
The main parking lot is paved, and the road leading to it is generally well-maintained.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, parking and accessing the trails at this trailhead are free of charge.
The trails are generally accessible during daylight hours. It's recommended to start your hike well before sunset due to desert conditions.
No advance booking is required. Access to the trail and parking is on a first-come, first-served basis.
Based on available information, no specific permits are required for general hiking on this trail.
Be mindful of other hikers and mountain bikers. Stay on marked trails and pack out everything you pack in. Heed all warning signs.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The trail is described as a little challenging but rewarding. It involves navigating through a canyon and can have some high ledge areas on certain loops.
The trail can be an out-and-back or a loop, depending on your chosen route. Specific mileage varies based on the path taken.
Expect beautiful desert landscapes, a unique canyon experience, rock formations like arches and hoodoos, and views towards a lake.
Yes, there are restrooms and water fountains/fill stations available at the main trailhead.
Yes, the area has recent development of mountain bike trails, and experienced riders may find it challenging and rewarding.
📸 📸 Photography
The narrow canyon itself, the rock arch, Balanced Rock hoodoo, and panoramic desert views offer excellent photographic subjects.
Early morning or late afternoon light can provide dramatic shadows and softer illumination for landscape photography.
The top of the trail, near the picnic table, offers breathtaking panoramic views. The rock arch and Balanced Rock are also distinct photo spots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the canyon and expansive views. A standard zoom lens is versatile for various shots. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions.
Yes, there's a 'cute little rock snake homage' worth looking at and photographing at the trailhead.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage kids to look for the unique rock formations like Balanced Rock and the rock arch. The 'rock snake homage' at the trailhead is also a charming detail that can capture their attention. Ensure everyone has plenty of water and wears appropriate footwear. Downloading an offline map is essential for keeping track of the route and ensuring everyone stays together.
⛰️ Experienced Hikers & Adventurers
Consider tackling the trail during cooler parts of the day or year to maximize comfort. The potential for offshoots and shortcuts mentioned by reviewers suggests that those who enjoy route-finding might find additional enjoyment. Always be prepared for desert conditions, carry a reliable navigation tool, and inform someone of your hiking plans.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trail System
For those seeking geological wonders, after exiting the main crack, hanging a left leads to a lesser-known rock arch. Continuing down the wash towards the lake will reveal Balanced Rock, a cool hoodoo formation. These natural features add significant value to the hike beyond the primary 'crack' experience. The trail system is designed to be explored, offering varied terrain and unique sights for those willing to venture a bit further.
Mountain Biking at the Crack
When planning a mountain biking trip here, it's advisable to research specific trail difficulty ratings and any seasonal closures or advisories. The combination of the 'crack' itself and the surrounding washes offers diverse riding opportunities. Always prioritize safety, carry essential repair tools, and ensure you have adequate hydration, as the desert environment can be unforgiving. The area's evolving trail system means it's worth checking for the latest updates before your visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit