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| - This trail is well worth the effort as the views are incredible and the hot spring feels great!
Directions:
Take Exit 2 BEFORE you cross the Hoover Dam. We made the mistake of crossing the dam and taking Exit 2 on the Arizona side, which is Kingman Wash and NOT Gold Strike. So, take Exit 2 before the Dam, turn right onto a little access road looking thing, and you will more than likely see cars parked on a small dirt road that runs down parallel to the highway bridge. You can't miss it!
Tips:
1. DO wear grippy shoes. I made the mistake of wearing hiking boots, and the tread was not conducive to the super slippery rocks you encounter. You would be better of wearing tennis shoes, Vibram Five Fingers, or water shoes with good grip.
2. DO bring lots of water. I logged about 5.25 miles total on our hike. Your muscle and mind will need that water. DO bring extra water to leave at the cooler station about 25 mins into the hike. Many people that come in the warmer months are not prepared and you could help save a life! (as the sign says)
I didn't find this trail particularly difficult. The majority of it is flat with the exception of the boulder/rope sections you encounter along the way. DO NOT do this trail alone. You may find you need help from a friend or in our case, we leveraged some help from some others on the trail. Overall it took us a good 4 hours with stops and time to enjoy the hot springs.
Bring layers. Even though it's warm in the sunny area of this trail, it does get quite cold through the canyon, which for us at 10 am, was mostly shaded. I would also suggest bringing long pants as there are snakes on this trail and you never know where they may be lurking.
Warning:
You will encounter rowdy youths. This seems to be a super popular spot for teens and young adults sporting their Coronas and blue tooth speakers. Come early to avoid this madness. I found the sounds of nature hard to hear over their conversations of hashtags, Drake, and avoiding maturity.
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