Near Gila Bend, Arizona
Brittlebush Trailhead does not offer reservations through Recreation.gov. Please take a look at the area details below for more information about visiting this location. Enjoy your visit!
Brittlebush Trail is a near level, 6-mile route through the heart of the 63,200-acre North Maricopa Mountains Wilderness in the Sonoran Desert National Monument. The North Maricopa Mountains are a jumble of long ridges and isolated peaks separated by extensive, saguaro-studded bajadas and wide desert washes.
Cholla, ocotillo, prickly pear, paloverde, ironwood, and Mexican jumping bean complement the thick stands of saguaro to form classic Sonoran Desert vistas.
Commonly seen wildlife includes desert mule deer, javelina, desert bighorn sheep, coyote, desert tortoise, and numerous varieties of lizards and birds.
During wet spring months, the hillsides adjacent to the trail are awash with brilliant yellow blooms of the brittlebush.
Brittlebush Trail follows a combination of former vehicle tracks and wide, unmarked desert washes. No trail signage or directional markers are available along the route; therefore, this trail is recommended only for experienced hikers skilled in reading topographic maps. The northern terminus of the Brittlebush Trail intersects the Margies Cove Trail in the interior of the North Maricopa Mountains Wilderness.
Trail can be used year-round; however, it is recommended for use from November through April. At other times of the year, the trail is seldom used due to high temperatures.
Summer temperatures may often reach 115 degrees. Wear a hat, long sleeve shirt, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Drink plenty of water!
Access and Parking: The parking area consists of hard-packed ground with non-striped spaces. Although none of the spaces are designated as accessible, the entire parking area should be suitable for people with mobility devices.
Drinking Water: There is no drinking water available. Bring plenty of water.
Toilets: Accessible vault toilet onsite.
Cell Phone and Internet: Cell phone service may be unreliable. There is no public internet or Wi-Fi.
Pets: Service dogs are legally permitted anywhere that visitors can go. Pack out all waste.
Nearby Attractions and Amenities: The northern terminus of the Brittlebush Trail intersects the Margies Cove Trail in the interior of the North Maricopa Mountains Wilderness.
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.
Expect potential hazards such as venomous snakes, extreme heat, 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.
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.