Tag: Lake Mead

Lake Mead, situated in the southwestern United States, is renowned as the largest reservoir by volume in the country. Formed by the Hoover Dam on the Colorado River, it straddles the border between Nevada and Arizona. The lake’s vast expanse stretches across 247 square miles when full, offering a critical water supply to millions of people in the region, including cities like Las Vegas. Its striking azure waters contrast sharply with the surrounding desert landscape, making it a popular destination for boating, fishing, and recreational activities. However, in recent years, its water levels have faced significant challenges due to drought and increased demand, highlighting concerns over sustainability and water management in the arid Southwest.

Empire Wash

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Empire wash is a short cut from Cal Nev Ari to the Lake Mead Davis Powerline road through a narrow canyon. This offers great access to several of the wash roads which take you down to Lake Mojave by connecting to the southern end of the Lake Mead Power Line road.  A easy and fun trail which leads you to better destinations.

The kids go for a walk while we air down at Empire Wash
The kids go for a walk while we air down at Empire Wash

Just off the pavement, we opted to air down the jeeps to bring some comfort to this long road. We did not need any more traction, we just opted to float across the desert. Empire wash runs through the mountains in the distance.

Empire Wash - You know you are not lost when there is a sign.
Empire Wash – You know you are not lost when there is a sign.

Once you approach the mountains, a nice little sign reminds you that this can be rough county. From the looks of the sign, there is quite a bit of evidence of flooding from the level of sand piled around the base of the sign.

A narrow valley on the Empire Wash Trail near Lake Mojave
A narrow valley on the trail near Lake Mojave

The road and canyon twist and turn through the mountains. This was a lot of fun to drive. Although overcast on our trip, we looked forward to swimming in Lake Mojave at the end of the next trail. On this day, we chose Sandy Wash.

Empire Wash Trail Map

Burro Wash

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My one week old, Black Jeep on our first 4x4 trail to Burro Wash
My one week old, Black Jeep on our first 4×4 trail to Burro Wash

This scenic backcountry adventure takes you down Burro Wash into the depths of Black Canyon below Hoover Dam by the only route possible on the Nevada side of the Colorado River. The route offers a jeeper access to the Colorado River below the damn in the Lake Mead National Recreational area.

There is one steep section.
There is one steep section.

This is a legitimate and open 4×4 trail that will take you down some rocky descents, sandy washes and over a few minor but fun rock obstacles right before reaching the river. This trail should not be taken lightly but for the most part is stock friendly for 4 wheel drive vehicles equipped with low range gears and all-terrain tires. This is an out-and-back trail meaning you will head back the same way you came in. Down by the river would be an excellent spot to stop and have lunch so bring your lawn chairs and a camera and have some fun!

The low water left us a muddy beach.
The low water left us a muddy beach.

Burro Wash was the first 4×4 trail that I ran with the Black Jeep. My wife and I purchased it just a few weeks before and it seemed natural to exercise the 4×4 a bit. The 28 inch street tires left much to be desired and the lower ground clearance made this reasonable easy trail more challenging for a rookie driver.

Trail Summary

NameBurro Wash Trail
LocationLake Mead National Recreation Area, Clark County, Neada
Latitude, Longitude
Length12 miles
Elevation Gain– 1200 Feet
DifficultyEasy

Burro Wash Trail Map