- Region
- CA, USA
- Country
- United States
- Best for
- hiking
- Best season
- Spring, Summer
- Permits
- Confirm current permit requirements, campi…
- Managed by
- Bureau of Land Management; 760-252-6000; BLM_CA_Web_BA@blm.gov
Plan with verified data
Avawatz Mountains Wilderness trip tools
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Photos of Avawatz Mountains Wilderness
How to get there
The wilderness is on the southeastern border of Death Valley National Park, 10 miles northwest of Baker. From I-15, take the Kelbaker Road/CA-127 exit. Travel north from Baker approximately 10 miles, then turn left onto Harry Wade Road. Confirm the onward approach and appropriate parking with the Bureau of Land Management; these directions do not identify a specific trailhead.
- Kelbaker Road/CA-127 exit
The highway approach begins at this I-15 exit in Baker. Head north on CA-127 toward the Harry Wade Road turnoff. This is an approach junction, not a wilderness trailhead.
- Harry Wade Road
Turn left onto Harry Wade Road after traveling approximately 10 miles north from Baker. Use this as the access-road approach and confirm onward access and parking before setting out.
Sources: blm.gov · University of Montana / federal agency partners · Wilderness Connect / federal wilderness boundary inventory. Confirm road and trailhead conditions with the managing agency before you leave.
CA, USA · United States
- Desert Hiking
- Canyoneering
- Surfing
- Hiking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Horseback Riding
Rugged desert country above the Silurian Valley
The Avawatz Mountains Wilderness lies in California along the southeastern border of Death Valley National Park, northwest of Baker. Rising to more than 6,100 feet above the Silurian Valley, the mountains combine colorful eroded slopes, rugged ridges, and steep, narrow canyons. Their varied geology is a central part of the experience: this is country for studying the terrain and choosing a cross-country line rather than planning around a named trail itinerary. Hikers and equestrians should expect harsh desert conditions and prepare to carry plenty of water. Match the day's ambitions to the terrain, available water, and the group's ability to navigate and turn back. The wilderness offers solitude, but that same setting calls for self-sufficient planning rather than reliance on developed facilities.
Planning travel on foot or horseback
Cross-country hiking and equestrian travel are the main ways to explore the Avawatz Mountains Wilderness. Rugged ridges and narrow canyons make terrain assessment important; a line that looks direct on a map may not offer straightforward passage on the ground. Carry navigation tools, sun protection, and enough water for the full outing rather than building a plan around finding water. Choose a conservative turnaround point and leave room to retrace the approach if the terrain becomes unsuitable. Motorized equipment and mechanical transport are generally prohibited on federally designated wilderness lands, including vehicles and bicycles, subject to specific legal exceptions. Confirm current access conditions and applicable regulations with the Bureau of Land Management before departure, especially when planning an equestrian trip or deciding where to leave a vehicle.
Springs, wildlife, and cultural connections
Nine natural springs support desert wildlife in the Avawatz Mountains, including bighorn sheep, coyotes, bobcats, and roadrunners. The area also provides an important connection between habitats, allowing animals to move across the wider desert landscape. Treat springs as wildlife resources, not assured drinking-water stops, and give animals space to approach or leave without disturbance. The name Avawatz comes from a Mohave Indian term meaning “red rock.” Members of the Shoshone Nation continue to visit for spiritual and cultural purposes, including gathering plants and materials for crafts and medicines. Respect those ongoing connections by leaving natural and cultural objects where they are. Travel and camp on durable surfaces, pack out waste, minimize campfire impacts, and avoid crowding wildlife or other visitors.
Where on earth
Satellite imagery flying in from a world view to Avawatz Mountains Wilderness, United States. Use the + / − buttons, or click the map to zoom with your scroll wheel; drag to pan and pinch to zoom on touch.
Coordinates
- Decimal degrees
- 35.5133, -116.2973
- Latitude (DMS)
- 35° 30′ 47.8″ N
- Longitude (DMS)
- 116° 17′ 50.3″ W
Coordinates are an access-point reference for Avawatz Mountains Wilderness, not a route. Carry a paper map and confirm trailhead or put-in access with the managing agency before you go.
Topic summary
Rising to more than 6,100 feet above the Silurian Valley, the Avawatz Mountains form a commanding backdrop of colorful eroded slopes, rugged ridges, and steep, narrow canyons. The name "Avawatz" is derived...
Key takeaways
- Region: CA, USA
- Country: United States
- Good for: hiking
- Coordinates: 35.513, -116.297
Intended uses
hiking
Keep planning
Popular pursuits at Avawatz Mountains Wilderness
- Desert Hiking
Water carries and heat management drive the plan.
- Canyoneering
Narrows, downclimbs, and flash-flood timing.
- Surfing
Swell windows and access from camp.
- Hiking
Day miles on marked trail, with route notes and trail links below.
- Wildlife Viewing
Best light, best season, and where animals move.
- Horseback Riding
Stock-legal trail and forage rules.
Animals around Avawatz Mountains Wilderness
Rugged desert country above the Silurian Valley
The Avawatz Mountains Wilderness lies in California along the southeastern border of Death Valley National Park, northwest of Baker. Rising to more than 6,100 feet above the Silurian Valley, the mountains combine colorful eroded slopes, rugged ridges, and steep, narrow canyons. Their varied geology is a central part of the experience: this is country for studying the terrain and choosing a cross-country line rather than planning around a named trail itinerary. Hikers and equestrians should expect harsh desert conditions and prepare to carry plenty of water. Match the day's ambitions to the terrain, available water, and the group's ability to navigate and turn back. The wilderness offers solitude, but that same setting calls for self-sufficient planning rather than reliance on developed facilities.
Planning travel on foot or horseback
Cross-country hiking and equestrian travel are the main ways to explore the Avawatz Mountains Wilderness. Rugged ridges and narrow canyons make terrain assessment important; a line that looks direct on a map may not offer straightforward passage on the ground. Carry navigation tools, sun protection, and enough water for the full outing rather than building a plan around finding water. Choose a conservative turnaround point and leave room to retrace the approach if the terrain becomes unsuitable. Motorized equipment and mechanical transport are generally prohibited on federally designated wilderness lands, including vehicles and bicycles, subject to specific legal exceptions. Confirm current access conditions and applicable regulations with the Bureau of Land Management before departure, especially when planning an equestrian trip or deciding where to leave a vehicle.
Springs, wildlife, and cultural connections
Nine natural springs support desert wildlife in the Avawatz Mountains, including bighorn sheep, coyotes, bobcats, and roadrunners. The area also provides an important connection between habitats, allowing animals to move across the wider desert landscape. Treat springs as wildlife resources, not assured drinking-water stops, and give animals space to approach or leave without disturbance. The name Avawatz comes from a Mohave Indian term meaning “red rock.” Members of the Shoshone Nation continue to visit for spiritual and cultural purposes, including gathering plants and materials for crafts and medicines. Respect those ongoing connections by leaving natural and cultural objects where they are. Travel and camp on durable surfaces, pack out waste, minimize campfire impacts, and avoid crowding wildlife or other visitors.
Route options
- Cross-country hikingRugged cross-country terrain with harsh desert conditions.
Plan a self-directed outing in the Avawatz Mountains' eroded slopes, ridges, and canyon terrain. No fixed trail itinerary is specified here; select a line using suitable maps and current agency guidance, and carry plenty of water.
- Equestrian explorationRugged backcountry terrain requiring careful route selection.
Explore the wilderness on horseback with a route tailored to the group's abilities and the suitability of the terrain for stock. Confirm the approach with the managing agency and plan water needs without assuming the natural springs will supply the trip.
Sample itineraries
- Avawatz cross-country day hike · 1 day
Plan a conservative out-and-back through the Avawatz Mountains’ eroded terrain. Choose the line using detailed maps and current BLM access guidance rather than assuming a maintained trail. Turn around before steep canyons or rugged ridges exceed the group’s abilities, and carry all needed water.
- Avawatz backcountry overnight · 2 days
For experienced desert travelers, plan a short cross-country overnight focused on the range’s varied geology. Confirm access and camping regulations with BLM first. Keep the route within the group’s water-carrying capacity, camp on durable surfaces, and leave springs undisturbed for wildlife.
Seasonal conditions
Spring
Forecast-dependent spring outings
Plan for exposed desert travel and changing weather. Carry ample water, choose conservative cross-country objectives, and check conditions at the elevations you intend to visit.
Summer
Only when temperatures allow safe travel
Treat heat and water demand as primary planning concerns in this harsh desert setting. Shorten or postpone outings when conditions exceed the group’s ability to carry sufficient water and travel safely.
Fall
Forecast-dependent fall outings
Do not assume cooler weather eliminates water needs. Rugged ridges and steep canyons still call for conservative timing, navigation skills, and clothing suited to changing temperatures.
Winter
Weather-dependent winter outings
Check conditions for higher terrain as well as the valley. The mountains rise to more than 6,100 feet; pack insulating layers and adjust plans to the forecast rather than assuming uniformly mild desert weather.
| Season | Window | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Forecast-dependent spring outings | Plan for exposed desert travel and changing weather. Carry ample water, choose conservative cross-country objectives, and check conditions at the elevations you intend to visit. |
| Summer | Only when temperatures allow safe travel | Treat heat and water demand as primary planning concerns in this harsh desert setting. Shorten or postpone outings when conditions exceed the group’s ability to carry sufficient water and travel safely. |
| Fall | Forecast-dependent fall outings | Do not assume cooler weather eliminates water needs. Rugged ridges and steep canyons still call for conservative timing, navigation skills, and clothing suited to changing temperatures. |
| Winter | Weather-dependent winter outings | Check conditions for higher terrain as well as the valley. The mountains rise to more than 6,100 feet; pack insulating layers and adjust plans to the forecast rather than assuming uniformly mild desert weather. |
Permits, fees & closures
Confirm current permit requirements, camping rules, and access conditions with the Bureau of Land Management at 760-252-6000.
Official source: Avawatz Mountains WSA - Bureau of Land Management · Verified October 19, 2026
Hazards & regulations
- Harsh desert conditions require carrying plenty of water. Do not rely on the nine natural springs as drinking-water sources; they support wildlife.
- Steep, narrow canyons can make route selection and retreat difficult. Avoid committing to terrain beyond the group’s abilities.
- Rugged ridges and eroded slopes demand careful footing and conservative route choices.
- Cross-country travel requires independent navigation. A mapped location inside the wilderness is not necessarily a trailhead or access point.
What to pack for Avawatz Mountains Wilderness
- Water sufficient for the entire outing and a contingency reserve
- Multiple water containers
- Sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
- Sun-protective clothing
- Detailed topographic map with wilderness boundaries
- Compass and offline navigation
- Headlamp and spare power
- First-aid kit and emergency shelter
- Footwear suitable for uneven, eroded ground
- Insulating and weather-protective layers
- Food for the planned outing plus a reserve
- Waste pack-out supplies
Avawatz Mountains Wilderness FAQ
- Where is the wilderness, and how do you approach it?
- It lies on the southeastern border of Death Valley National Park, 10 miles northwest of Baker. From I-15, exit at Kelbaker Road/CA-127, travel north from Baker approximately 10 miles, and turn left on Harry Wade Road. Confirm the final access point and road conditions with BLM.
- What kind of trip suits this area?
- The Avawatz Mountains suit cross-country hikers and equestrians prepared for harsh conditions, substantial water carries, and rugged terrain. Plan around navigation skills and self-sufficiency rather than assuming a developed trail network.
- Can bicycles or motor vehicles enter the wilderness?
- Motorized equipment and mechanical transport, including bicycles and motor vehicles, are generally prohibited in federally designated wilderness. Contact BLM for any area-specific exceptions or regulations.
- Can the springs supply drinking water?
- Nine natural springs support desert wildlife, but their reliability and suitability for drinking are not established here. Carry the water needed for the trip and avoid disturbing animals or blocking their access to springs.
- What cultural considerations matter?
- Avawatz derives from a Mohave Indian term meaning “red rock.” Members of the Shoshone Nation continue to visit for spiritual and cultural purposes and to collect materials for crafts and medicines. Respect these activities, leave what you find, and give other visitors space.
- Why is this landscape important for wildlife?
- The wilderness provides an important link in regional habitat connectivity, allowing animals to move through the wider desert landscape. Its springs support species including bighorn sheep, coyotes, bobcats, and roadrunners. Observe wildlife from a distance and keep water access clear.