Guided trips from Laughlin

Plan a guided trip

The desert rewards a little preparation. Services are few once you leave town, shade is scarce and the weather can swing from warm to cold in a single day. Here's what to pack.

The essentials

Water, and more water. Carry more than you think you'll need, especially in warm weather. A refillable bottle for each person, plus a spare in the vehicle.
Sun protection. A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. The sun is strong even in winter.
Closed-toe shoes. Sturdy walking shoes or light hiking shoes for dusty streets, gravel viewpoints and short trails.
A light layer. Mornings and evenings can be cool, and higher elevations are cooler still.
Snacks. Something salty and something sweet for the road.
A charged phone and a map. Cell coverage can be patchy in the mountains; download offline maps before you leave.

Nice to have

A camera with a zoom lens, for burros and distant views
Binoculars for wildlife and rock formations
A small first-aid kit
Wet wipes or hand sanitizer
A bandana or buff for dust on dirt roads
A small backpack to keep your hands free
Some cash, in case a small shop doesn't take cards

By season

Summer: extra water, electrolyte drinks, a cooling towel and an early start. Plan to be indoors by the hottest part of the afternoon.

Winter: a warm jacket for early mornings and higher elevations, and gloves if you feel the cold.

Spring and fall: layers you can add and remove as the day warms up and cools down.

What to leave behind

Food for the burros. Never feed burros human food. See our burros guide.
Decorations for the trees. At Christmas Tree Pass, rangers ask visitors not to decorate the junipers. See the pass guide.
Anything you'd leave as litter. Pack out everything you bring in.

For your vehicle

If you're driving yourself, start with a full tank, check your tires (including the spare), and carry extra water in the vehicle. On dirt roads such as Christmas Tree Pass, check current conditions with the National Park Service before you go, and turn back if a wash looks flooded or washed out.

On a guided trip

If you're joining a guided trip, ask us what's included when you book. Bring your personal essentials (water bottle, sun protection, shoes and a layer) and any medication you might need.

Questions

How much water should I bring?

More than you expect to drink. In warm weather, plan on drinking regularly throughout the day and keep a spare supply in the vehicle.

Do I need hiking boots?

Not usually. Sturdy closed-toe walking shoes are fine for town streets, viewpoints and short paths.

Will my phone work?

Coverage can be patchy in the mountains. Download offline maps before you leave Laughlin.

Plan your trip

Prefer to let someone else drive? A guided trip from Laughlin handles the roads, the timing and the stops. Send a request below.