The summer months are fast approaching and with them, more activity at and around Lake Mead. The National Park Service has issued several advisories about the Lake Mead National Recreation Area for visitors to be aware of. The heat and dry conditions of the lake area continue to be of concern.
Excessive heat is the leading weather-related kill in the Southwest United States, according to the National Weather Service. Heat-related illnesses are not uncommon at Lake Mead, especially for those who are unfamiliar with the area. However, even locals have found themselves in dangerous situations when out hiking, boating or otherwise enjoying the park. Therefore, the National Park Service has announced the closure of the following trails and hiking areas from May 15, 2022 to September 30, 2022:
- Goldstrike Canyon
- White Rock Canyon and White Rock Canyon Trail
- Arizona Hot Springs and Arizona Hot Springs Trail
- Liberty Arch Trail
- Lone Palm Trail
- Sugar Loaf Trail
- Lone Palm and Sugar Loaf surrounding areas
The hot springs near both Goldstrike Canyon and White Rock Canyon will remain accessible from the Colorado River and remain open to the public during the seasonal closure. The River Mountain Loop Trail and Historic Railroad Trail will also remain open.
Declining water levels at Lake Mead have also caused changes at the various boat ramps around the lake. Boaters should take note of the following closures and restrictions at Lake Mead:
- Hemenway Harbor – 1 lane on pipe mat. No boats over 24 feet. Only shallow hull vessels. [CLOSED for 48 hours starting Thursday, April 21, at 4 a.m]
- Callville Bay – Closed due to low water levels.
- Echo Bay – 1 lane on pipe mat. No boats over 24 feet. Only shallow hull vessels.
- Boulder Harbor – Closed due to low water levels.
- Temple Bar – Closed due to low water levels.
- South Cove – Closed due to low water levels. Launching is available off the dirt road south of the launch ramp. Four-wheel-drive is recommended.
Lake Mohave boat ramp statuses are currently:
- Willow Beach – 2 lanes on concrete.
- Cottonwood Cove – 2 lanes on concrete.
- Katherine Landing – 2 lanes on concrete.
- North Arizona Telephone Cove – 1 lane on sand. Four-wheel-drive is recommended.
- Cabinsite Cove – 1 lane on sand. Four-wheel-drive is recommended.
- Princess Cove – 1 lane on concrete.
The National Park Service further recommends that all visitors to the park treat each visit as though it is their first. Water hazards around points, islands, shorelines or reef areas become exposed due to declining water levels. Take care around these areas. Wearing a life jacket while swimming is highly encouraged. Cliff jumping is not encouraged due to lower lake levels, unseen submerged objects and uneven canyon walls. Debris along beach areas can be dangerous so wearing shoes is recommended and visitors should also be aware that deep mud can be found along shorelines.
Always plan your visit with the weather in mind. Monsoon season coincides with some of the busiest times in and around the lake. Check weather conditions with the National Weather Service (Lake Mead HERE and Lake Mohave HERE) before heading out to enjoy a day in the park. Further park safety tips can be found HERE.
