Explore the stunning vistas of Bridge Mountain Hiking Trail on this challenging Red Rock Canyon National Conservatory Area hike!
Distance: 15.8 miles; Average Time: 6-7 hrs; Difficulty: Strenuous
Bridge Mountain Hiking Trail Map
Bridge Mountain Hiking Trail
Are you ready to take on an adventure that will take your breath away?
Embark on a journey up the Bridge Mountain Hiking Trail and experience the beauty and freedom that nature can offer.
Like an oasis in the desert, this 6.8 mile round-trip hike is the perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
With sweeping views of the La Madre Mountain Range, the Virgin Range, the Grand Wash Cliffs, and the Hualapai Mountains, this trail is sure to delight.
You’ll need to be prepared and bring the essentials for a long hike as you’ll be doing some route-finding on sandstone.
But, you’ll be rewarded with a feeling of accomplishment and joy that can’t be found anywhere else.
So, if you’re looking for a challenge and a chance to explore the outdoors, this is the trail for you!
Key Takeaways
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- The Bridge Mountain Hiking Trail route in Red Rock Canyon NCA is physically demanding and technically difficult, requiring route finding on sandstone and the use of a belay rope in certain areas.
- Access to the trailhead requires a high-clearance vehicle, and a 4WD vehicle is necessary for the upper part of the road.
- The trail section is safe, but scrambling on cliffs is life-threatening, so caution must be exercised.
- The summit of Bridge Mountain offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscapes, including the La Madre Mountain Range, Turtlehead Peak, Calico Hills, and distant mountain ranges.
Overview
Bridge Mountain is a challenging and exciting 6.8-mile round-trip hike in Red Rock Canyon Nation Conservatory Area, requiring route-finding, scrambling, and the use of a belay rope in certain areas, but offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape!
Located along Rocky Gap Road, the Trailhead is 4.8 miles up, and the well-built trail follows a limestone ridge.
As the route becomes more difficult on sandstone, Hiking Trails Las Vegas Red Rock Canyon must use cairns and painted marks to navigate.
The steep and exposed sections near the summit will require careful scrambling, with the reward of sweeping views of the La Madre Mountain Range, the Calico Hills, and the Pine Valley Mountains.
The route descends into a saddle at the west end of the Hidden Forest, then continues up between two Ponderosa Pines and onto the summit.
At the top, hikers can enjoy incredible vistas and the freedom of standing on the highest peak in the area.
Along the descent, consider a detour to the summit of North Peak for more spectacular views.
With careful planning and preparation, the Bridge Mountain Hiking Trail is a thrilling adventure with a spectacular reward.
Route Details
You’ll need an adventurous spirit and a keen sense of direction to navigate this difficult Bridge Mountain Hiking Trail route, with its steep and exposed sections and plenty of route finding required on sandstone.
Located along Rocky Gap Road in the Red Rock Canyon National Conservatory Area, the Bridge Mountain Hiking Trail is 4.8 miles up the road and requires a high-clearance vehicle to access, with a 4WD vehicle necessary for the upper part.
The 6.8-mile round trip is a long day hike if starting from lower down.
The well-built trail follows a limestone ridge before becoming more challenging on sandstone, using cairn navigation and painted marks for route finding.
In certain areas, the use of a belay rope is recommended.
Once near the summit, the route contours around a knob and descends across layered slickrock sandstone.
Climb onto the summit and you’ll be rewarded with sweeping vistas up and down the escarpment, and even distant views to the Pine Valley Mountains.
On the descent, consider a visit to the summit of North Peak.
Respect the land, drive carefully, and bring the essentials for a long hike to ensure a safe journey.
The Bridge Mountain Hiking Trail may be demanding, but the adventure and the views are worth the effort.
Safety Considerations
When embarking on this journey, it’s important to keep safety in mind.
The Bridge Mountain Hiking Trail route is physically demanding, technically difficult, and scrambling on cliffs is life-threatening.
Hikers should come prepared with the 10 essentials and the right gear for the terrain.
Route finding is essential, so it’s wise to bring a map and compass, and consider using a belay rope in certain areas.
High-clearance vehicles are needed to access the trailhead, but a 4WD is necessary for the upper part of the road.
Drivers should be alert to narrow spots and high cliffs, and watch out for motorcycles and trucks.
The hike itself is safe, but it’s important to remember that respect for the land and Leave No Trace principles are essential.
If you’re planning on making it a long day hike, starting from the lower down, it’s important to be prepared for the extra mileage.
Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, and consider bringing emergency preparedness items such as a first aid kit and a waterproof fire starter.
When it comes to the route, it’s essential to be aware of the steep and exposed sections near the summit.
Cairns and painted markers are used for route finding, so pay attention and be sure to bring a map and compass.
When the route contours around a knob and descends across layered slickrock sandstone, it’s important to be extra cautious.
The ramp leading to the summit is steep in some parts, so take extra care when crossing.
Once at the summit, the views are incredible with sweeping vistas up and down the escarpment.
Enjoy the sights, take photos, and stay a while, but don’t forget to take the route back down the sandstone and trail.
Descend with care and remember to leave the land like you found it.
Have an amazing adventure and be safe!
Views and Photos
From the summit of Bridge Mountain, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping, jaw-dropping views of the surrounding area.
To the north lies North Peak, the La Madre Mountain Range, and the high peaks of the Spring Mountains.
Eastward, you’ll see Turtlehead Peak, the Calico Hills, and Blue Diamond Hill.
To the south, distant mountain ranges fade into the haze, but include the South McCullough Range, Mt. Potosi, and the Kingston Range.
In the distance, you’ll even see the Pine Valley Mountains above St. George and the Virgin Range.
The route to the summit of Bridge Mountain is a physically demanding and technically difficult sandstone route with route finding required.
Through the Hidden Forest, you’ll cross the saddle and climb onto the summit via an arching ramp.
As you traverse the steep and exposed sections, be sure to take in the scenic vistas of the surrounding area.
The summit is worth the effort.
Take a moment to soak in the impressive views while taking some pictures to commemorate the breathtaking experience.
Make sure to also take pictures of the descent as you traverse the narrow and high cliffs of the 4WD road.
At the end of the day, you’ll be glad you made the journey.
You’ll have experienced the beauty of Red Rock Canyon National Conservatory Area and be able to look back at the photos of your adventure.
Make sure to also follow the Leave No Trace guidelines and respect the land.
Bridge Mountain Hiking Trail Conclusion
So what are you waiting for?
The Bridge Mountain Hiking Trail is a rewarding experience and a great way to explore the beauty of Red Rock Canyon National Conservatory Area.
It’s a physically demanding route, but don’t let that stop you—you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment.
Plus, if you’re looking for an extra challenge, consider stopping by North Peak on your way out.
So lace up your hiking boots, pack your essentials, and hit the Bridge Mountain Hiking Trail!
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