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.
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 exceed 110°F (43°C). Wear a hat, long sleeve shirt, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Drink plenty of water!
This is a remote area and access roads are not maintained. Cell phones do not work in many areas of the monument.
Heat and Sun
The monument's elevation ranges from 1,000 to 4,400 feet (304-1,215 m), so summer is rough on visitors. It's best to enjoy the monument from late October to mid-April. If you are visiting in summer, take extra precautions to drink plenty of water, as temperatures may exceed 110°F (43°C). We recommend sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat. Weather forecast
Water
Bring all the water you will need. There is no drinking water available on the monument. Plan on drinking one gallon (4 liters) per person per day—more if you're engaged in strenuous activities.
Your vehicle
Make sure your gasoline tank is full, carry additional water and full-size spare tires in your vehicle, and make sure your vehicle is in good working condition. Winter is the most popular time to visit.
Wildlife
The desert sun stirs up rattlesnakes and other reptiles as early as February.
Flash floods
Flash floods caused by sudden storms can be dangerous in washes, so it is best to have a survival plan to prevent emergency situations. Have good maps with you and know how to use them.
Border Concerns
The southern part of the monument is a corridor for drug and human smugglers. Be alert for illegal activities and law enforcement operations.
Respect and Protect
The area is home to many species of wildlife. 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.
Report resource crimes including vandalism, dumping and suspicious activity at 1-800-637-9152.