- Region
- AZ, USA
- Country
- United States
- Best for
- hiking
- Best season
- Spring, Summer
- Permits
- No permits or passes are required for ordi…
- Managed by
- Bureau of Land Management, Arizona Strip Field Office; the southern section is within Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument. Contact: (435) 688-3200.
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Photos of Paiute Wilderness
How to get there
From St. George, Utah, follow Interstate 15 toward Mesquite, Nevada, to Cedar Pockets rest area/Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area, about 15 miles southwest of St. George. Paiute Wilderness lies south of both the interstate and the Virgin River. Alternatively, leave Interstate 15 at Black Rock Junction, about six miles southwest of St. George, and head south on BLM Road 1009 for about 20 miles to BLM Road 1004. The wilderness adjoins Road 1004 for about 10 miles, especially west of the junction. These directions identify approaches to the wilderness, not a marked hiking trail or a river crossing.
- Cedar Pockets rest area / Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area
An Interstate 15 approach through the Virgin River Canyon, about 15 miles southwest of St. George. The wilderness is south of the highway and river; verify the onward pedestrian approach before setting out.
- BLM Road 1009 / BLM Road 1004 junction
Reach this junction by heading south from Black Rock Junction on BLM Road 1009. Road 1004 borders the wilderness for about 10 miles, particularly west of the junction.
- Lime Kiln Canyon
An approach from Mesquite, Nevada, heading south through the canyon on rugged dirt roads. Snow accumulation and wet roads can make this approach impassable in winter.
Sources: blm.gov · University of Montana / federal agency partners · Wilderness Connect / federal wilderness boundary inventory · Wikipedia. Confirm road and trailhead conditions with the managing agency before you leave.
AZ, USA · United States
- Climbing
- Mountaineering
- Winter Camping
- Skiing
- Desert Hiking
- Canyoneering
- Surfing
- Hiking
Virgin Mountains and the Arizona Strip
Paiute Wilderness covers 87,900 acres in northwestern Arizona, several miles southwest of St. George, Utah. The Virgin Mountains form its backbone, rising more than 5,600 feet above the desert floor. Mt. Bangs reaches 8,012 feet and overlooks the surrounding country and the Basin and Range landscape to the west. Interstate 15 separates Paiute from Beaver Dam Mountains Wilderness to the north; the southern section lies within Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument. This is an undeveloped setting for hiking, backpacking, dispersed camping and stargazing, rather than a destination built around visitor facilities. Plan a trip around the terrain and a verified access route, not simply a point on a map. The substantial elevation change also means that conditions at a desert-edge approach may differ considerably from those higher in the mountains.
Vegetation, wildlife and canyon water
The climb from Paiute’s perimeter to Mt. Bangs crosses several distinct vegetation zones. Joshua trees, yucca and barrel cactus grow around the edges, giving way to scrub oak, sagebrush and pinyon forests, with ponderosa on the mountain’s summit. These habitats support more than 250 animal species, including mule deer, mountain lion, desert bighorn sheep and desert tortoise. Give wildlife space and avoid disturbing animals around water. Deep canyons contain water-bearing places that attract campers and backpackers, but a trip should not depend on finding usable water without checking current conditions. Carry an adequate supply and have a treatment method for any water collected. Choose durable surfaces for travel and camping, pack out waste, and leave plants and natural objects in place. Clothing and sun protection should suit both the open desert and higher mountain terrain.
Access planning and wilderness rules
Approaches include Interstate 15 through the Virgin River Canyon, BLM roads south of Black Rock Junction, and rugged dirt roads through Lime Kiln Canyon from Mesquite. Snow and wet roads can make the dirt-road approaches impassable in winter, so confirm conditions before leaving nearby communities. Services and facilities are available in St. George, Beaver Dam and Mesquite; plan to be self-sufficient in the wilderness. Ordinary visits require no permits, passes or fees. Commercial, competitive and large organized group events require a special recreation permit, while recreation on nearby Arizona state trust land requires a state permit. Motorized equipment and mechanical transport, including bicycles, are generally prohibited within the wilderness. Aircraft landings, including drones, are also generally prohibited. Contact the Arizona Strip Field Office about regulations and access; the primitive, undeveloped terrain may present accessibility challenges.
Where on earth
Satellite imagery flying in from a world view to Paiute 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
- 36.7313, -113.7889
- Latitude (DMS)
- 36° 43′ 52.6″ N
- Longitude (DMS)
- 113° 47′ 20.1″ W
Coordinates are an access-point reference for Paiute Wilderness, not a route. Carry a paper map and confirm trailhead or put-in access with the managing agency before you go.
Topic summary
This wilderness area consists of the Piute Mountains and the surrounding bajadas and extensive flat aprons of alluvium. The elevations within the Wilderness range from 2,000 to 4,132 feet. The Piute Mountains...
Key takeaways
- Region: AZ, USA
- Country: United States
- Good for: hiking
- Coordinates: 36.731, -113.789
Intended uses
hiking
Keep planning
Popular pursuits at Paiute Wilderness
- Climbing
Rock and alpine lines with approach beta.
- Mountaineering
Glacier and high-route objectives with real consequence.
- Winter Camping
Cold-season travel and camp craft; layering matters more than mileage.
- Skiing
Ski-touring access when the road closes for the season.
- Desert Hiking
Water carries and heat management drive the plan.
- Canyoneering
Narrows, downclimbs, and flash-flood timing.
Animals around Paiute Wilderness
Virgin Mountains and the Arizona Strip
Paiute Wilderness covers 87,900 acres in northwestern Arizona, several miles southwest of St. George, Utah. The Virgin Mountains form its backbone, rising more than 5,600 feet above the desert floor. Mt. Bangs reaches 8,012 feet and overlooks the surrounding country and the Basin and Range landscape to the west. Interstate 15 separates Paiute from Beaver Dam Mountains Wilderness to the north; the southern section lies within Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument. This is an undeveloped setting for hiking, backpacking, dispersed camping and stargazing, rather than a destination built around visitor facilities. Plan a trip around the terrain and a verified access route, not simply a point on a map. The substantial elevation change also means that conditions at a desert-edge approach may differ considerably from those higher in the mountains.
Vegetation, wildlife and canyon water
The climb from Paiute’s perimeter to Mt. Bangs crosses several distinct vegetation zones. Joshua trees, yucca and barrel cactus grow around the edges, giving way to scrub oak, sagebrush and pinyon forests, with ponderosa on the mountain’s summit. These habitats support more than 250 animal species, including mule deer, mountain lion, desert bighorn sheep and desert tortoise. Give wildlife space and avoid disturbing animals around water. Deep canyons contain water-bearing places that attract campers and backpackers, but a trip should not depend on finding usable water without checking current conditions. Carry an adequate supply and have a treatment method for any water collected. Choose durable surfaces for travel and camping, pack out waste, and leave plants and natural objects in place. Clothing and sun protection should suit both the open desert and higher mountain terrain.
Access planning and wilderness rules
Approaches include Interstate 15 through the Virgin River Canyon, BLM roads south of Black Rock Junction, and rugged dirt roads through Lime Kiln Canyon from Mesquite. Snow and wet roads can make the dirt-road approaches impassable in winter, so confirm conditions before leaving nearby communities. Services and facilities are available in St. George, Beaver Dam and Mesquite; plan to be self-sufficient in the wilderness. Ordinary visits require no permits, passes or fees. Commercial, competitive and large organized group events require a special recreation permit, while recreation on nearby Arizona state trust land requires a state permit. Motorized equipment and mechanical transport, including bicycles, are generally prohibited within the wilderness. Aircraft landings, including drones, are also generally prohibited. Contact the Arizona Strip Field Office about regulations and access; the primitive, undeveloped terrain may present accessibility challenges.
Route options
- Black Rock Junction–BLM Road 1004 approachAbout 20 miles on BLM Road 1009 to the BLM Road 1004 junction.
A road approach to the wilderness boundary, not a hiking itinerary. Leave Interstate 15 at Black Rock Junction and follow BLM Road 1009 south to Road 1004. Use a current map to select a legal starting point along the boundary; motor vehicles are generally prohibited inside the wilderness.
- Mesquite–Lime Kiln Canyon approachRugged dirt-road access.
A rugged dirt-road approach south from Mesquite through Lime Kiln Canyon. Confirm road conditions before committing, particularly during winter when snow and wet roads may prevent passage. This is an access option rather than a documented hiking route.
- St. George–Quail Hill Road–Wolf Hole Valley approach
An alternative approach south from St. George via Quail Hill Road and Wolf Hole Valley. Snow accumulation and wet roads may make the route impassable in winter. The portion across Black Rock Mountain is closed during winter; confirm current access with the managing office.
Sample itineraries
- Paiute Wilderness introduction · 1 day
Use Cedar Pockets rest area/Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area to orient to the wilderness south of Interstate 15 and the Virgin River. Confirm a suitable walking access with BLM before planning a short out-and-back hike; proximity to the highway does not establish a river crossing or marked trail.
- Deep-canyon backpack · 2 days
Plan an overnight hike into Paiute Wilderness’s deep canyons after confirming access and current water availability with BLM. Carry enough water to avoid depending on canyon sources. Camp on durable ground, leave water accessible to wildlife, and return along your planned approach.
- Mt. Bangs-focused hiking trip · 2 days
Make 8,012-foot Mt. Bangs the focus of a two-day visit, with time for access checks and a hike matched to conditions. Confirm the approach before departure rather than assuming a maintained summit trail. Prepare for a substantial change from desert vegetation to high-elevation ponderosa.
Seasonal conditions
Spring
Spring; conditions vary with elevation
Plan separately for desert approaches and the high Virgin Mountains. Check temperatures and road conditions before committing to an itinerary; winter snow and wet-road problems may still affect access. Do not assume canyon water is dependable.
Summer
Summer; desert floor versus high country
Prepare for heat on lower desert approaches, even when heading toward cooler elevations. Start walking early, carry ample water, and keep outings within your heat tolerance. Higher terrain does not remove the need for sun protection or weather checks.
Fall
Fall; elevation-dependent planning
Allow for cooler conditions at Mt. Bangs than around the desert perimeter. Carry insulating layers for overnight trips and check the forecast for both approach and destination elevations. Confirm water availability rather than planning around unspecified canyon sources.
Winter
Winter; check road access before travel
Snow accumulation and wet roads can make dirt-road approaches impassable. The route from St. George across Black Rock Mountain closes during winter. Confirm current access with BLM and prepare for cold conditions in the higher terrain.
| Season | Window | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Spring; conditions vary with elevation | Plan separately for desert approaches and the high Virgin Mountains. Check temperatures and road conditions before committing to an itinerary; winter snow and wet-road problems may still affect access. Do not assume canyon water is dependable. |
| Summer | Summer; desert floor versus high country | Prepare for heat on lower desert approaches, even when heading toward cooler elevations. Start walking early, carry ample water, and keep outings within your heat tolerance. Higher terrain does not remove the need for sun protection or weather checks. |
| Fall | Fall; elevation-dependent planning | Allow for cooler conditions at Mt. Bangs than around the desert perimeter. Carry insulating layers for overnight trips and check the forecast for both approach and destination elevations. Confirm water availability rather than planning around unspecified canyon sources. |
| Winter | Winter; check road access before travel | Snow accumulation and wet roads can make dirt-road approaches impassable. The route from St. George across Black Rock Mountain closes during winter. Confirm current access with BLM and prepare for cold conditions in the higher terrain. |
Permits, fees & closures
No permits or passes are required for ordinary wilderness visits. Commercial, competitive, and large organized group events require a special recreation permit. Recreation on nearby Arizona state trust land requires a state permit. Confirm special-use requirements with the Arizona Strip Field Office.
Fees: There are no fees to visit Paiute Wilderness.
Official source: Paiute Wilderness Area - Arizona - Bureau of Land Management · Verified November 3, 2026
Hazards & regulations
- Water occurs in some deep canyons, but do not treat an unspecified source as a dependable supply. Confirm availability and carry sufficient water.
- The Virgin Mountains rise more than 5,600 feet above the desert floor. Match your route to your fitness and prepare for changing temperatures and demanding elevation gain.
- Lower desert terrain calls for heat and sun precautions. Carry water, use sun protection, and shorten plans when conditions exceed your tolerance.
- Snow accumulation and wet roads can make rugged dirt-road approaches impassable. Check access before leaving nearby communities.
- This is an undeveloped, primitive setting with accessibility challenges. Carry navigation tools and avoid assuming that mapped locations indicate trails or usable access.
What to pack for Paiute Wilderness
- Water supply sized to the route and conditions
- Water treatment for any collected canyon water
- Sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
- Arizona Strip Visitor Map or Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument map
- Offline navigation and backup compass
- First-aid kit
- Headlamp and emergency shelter
- Insulating layers and weather shell
- Footwear suited to rough terrain
- Sleep system matched to elevation and forecast
- Waste bags and low-impact camping supplies
Paiute Wilderness FAQ
- Where is Paiute Wilderness?
- This 87,900-acre wilderness lies in northwestern Arizona’s Arizona Strip, southwest of St. George, Utah. Interstate 15 separates it from Beaver Dam Mountains Wilderness to the north. Its southern section lies within Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument.
- What are the main road approaches?
- BLM directions identify Cedar Pockets rest area/Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area along Interstate 15. Another approach leaves Interstate 15 at Black Rock Junction, follows BLM Road 1009 south, and reaches BLM Road 1004 beside the wilderness. Confirm walking access and road conditions before departure.
- What terrain and vegetation should visitors expect?
- The Virgin Mountains form the backbone of the wilderness, reaching 8,012 feet at Mt. Bangs. Vegetation shifts from Joshua trees, yucca, and barrel cactus around the perimeter through sagebrush, scrub oak, and pinyon forests to ponderosa at the summit.
- Are bikes, OHVs, or drones allowed?
- Motorized equipment and mechanical transport are generally prohibited within designated wilderness, including OHVs and bicycles. Landing aircraft, including drones, is also generally prohibited. Contact BLM for clarification of applicable regulations.
- Can visitors camp, and are there services?
- Backpacking and dispersed camping are available in this primitive, undeveloped wilderness. Services and facilities are in nearby communities, including St. George, Beaver Dam, and Mesquite. Camp on durable surfaces, pack out waste, and respect wildlife.
- Who can confirm current conditions and trip requirements?
- Contact the BLM Arizona Strip Field Office at (435) 688-3200. Ask about road conditions, suitable hiking access, water availability, and any requirements relevant to your planned activity.