The Desert National Wildlife Refuge is home to 6 major mountain ranges, all distinct from each other through different geologic formations. The life zones range from Bristle cone Pine and Pine-Fir Forests in the higher elevations to Joshua Tree woodlands and Saltbrush in the lower elevations.
The main trails within the Desert National Wildlife Refuge are located behind the visitors center. Birdsong Loop and the Whispering Ben trail are the only 2 trails that are not ADA accessible.
The Jackrabbit Loop is a small paved interpretive trail that passes by a small pond filled with the endangered Pahrump poolfish. Common animals found on this loop are the Flame skimmer dragonfly, Ash-throated flycatcher and the Relic leopard frog.
The Coyote loop is is a historic trail that passes by an old farm originally inhabited from 1916 to 1936. Various fruit and nut trees populate the area creating plenty of shade and making this a great place for bird watching in the spring and summer months. An Aquarium and old Railroad Tie Cabin sit at the back end of the loop.
The Whispering Ben trail is a nice short dirt path that leads to a limestone mortar that the Nuwuvi tribe once used. From this trail and the Bighorn Loop trail you will have a beautiful unobstructed view of the Sheep Range that is usually covered in snow until early summer. Various signage along this trail details the geologic and historic uses of this beautiful area.
The Corn Creek Trails are some of the only ADA trails within the refuge. Visit the Trails Access Project website for more information.
Aside from the established trails, hiking and horseback riding is permitted within the Desert National Wildlife Boundary. There is no water, cell service or other services located past the visitors center so please travel at your own risk. Summer month temperatures often exceed over 100 degrees.
The roads leading throughout the refuge are not well maintained. 4WD high clearance vehicles are recommended and even required on some of these roads. Dispersed camping is also permitted in the refuge.
Travel is not permitted on the western half of the refuge as it is used by the U.S Air Force for bombing, gunnery and aerial warfare training. Unexploded, live, ordinance may be present.
Visit the US Fish and Wildlife Service website for more information and condition updates.
For additional information visit the U.S Forest Service website or contact:
Download map files for your own use.
The main trails can be found behind the visitors center.
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