Cottonwood Heath Wash Loop

This rugged 19.4-mile backpacking loop weaves through the heart of the Cottonwood Canyon Wilderness. The route combines the Cottonwood Trail, Heath Wash, Leeds Creek–Cottonwood Road, and Cottonwood Canyon to form a scenic and moderately challenging loop with solitude, sandstone formations, and classic Mojave vegetation. With sections of primitive trail and intermittent wash travel, this route is ideal for seasoned hikers looking for a rewarding overnight or long single-day trek.

Begin your journey from the Cottonwood Trailhead and follow the Cottonwood Trail through open desert terrain dotted with creosote and prickly pear. After a few miles, look for the junction with Heath Wash, a rugged wash that dips south and winds through twisting narrows and sandy bottoms. This section is scenic but slow, with occasional rock-hopping and route-finding through the wash.

Eventually, you’ll reach Leeds Creek–Cottonwood Road, an old dirt road that runs along the eastern edge of the wilderness. Follow the road west as it curves back toward the canyon. Though this stretch is less wild than the previous sections, it provides expansive views of the surrounding mesas and ridges. When you reach Cottonwood Canyon, follow the winding canyon trail north. This final stretch features towering red rock walls, dry streambeds, and beautifully eroded sandstone terrain.

The loop traverses desert scrubland, dry washes, and canyon bottoms. Expect to see juniper, yucca, and cholla cactus, especially in higher terrain. Lizards and jackrabbits are common, and bighorn sheep occasionally roam the more remote reaches. Springtime wildflowers can add bursts of color to the otherwise rugged landscape.

Considerations

• Water: No reliable sources—carry all water or cache ahead of time.

• Navigation: Some sections are unmarked or faint—GPS and map strongly recommended.

• Weather: Best done in spring or fall. Avoid during summer heat or after heavy rains.

• Camping: Dispersed camping is allowed. Look for durable surfaces near washes or on mesas.

Permit Requirements

• Day Hiking: No permits are required for day hikes in the Cottonwood Canyon Wilderness.

Overnight Backpacking: While overnight permits are not mandatory, it's advisable to check with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for any specific regulations or recommended practices.