How to Hike the Vulture View Trail

The Vulture View Trail is one of the most breathtaking and rewarding hiking experiences in the southwestern United States, offering panoramic vistas, dramatic desert landscapes, and a unique opportunity to observe California condors in their natural habitat. Located within the scenic boundaries of the Mojave National Preserve in southeastern California, this trail is not just a path through rugged terrain—it’s a journey into one of America’s most ecologically significant and visually stunning environments. For hikers seeking solitude, natural beauty, and a deep connection with the wild, the Vulture View Trail delivers an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or a weekend adventurer looking to challenge yourself, understanding how to properly prepare for and navigate this trail is essential to safety, enjoyment, and environmental stewardship.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to hiking the Vulture View Trail. We cover everything from trail logistics and physical preparation to wildlife awareness and Leave No Trace principles. With detailed insights, real-world examples, and curated resources, this tutorial equips you with the knowledge to confidently tackle the trail while minimizing your impact on this fragile ecosystem. By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly what to pack, when to go, how to navigate, and how to respect the land that makes this hike so extraordinary.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Research and Plan Your Trip

Before setting foot on the Vulture View Trail, thorough research is non-negotiable. This trail is remote, with no cell service, limited water sources, and extreme temperature fluctuations. Begin by visiting the official National Park Service website for Mojave National Preserve. Download the latest trail map, check for current closures or fire restrictions, and review weather forecasts for the region. The trailhead is located off Kelso-Cima Road, approximately 15 miles east of the Kelso Depot Visitor Center. Use GPS coordinates (35.0589° N, 115.3891° W) to navigate accurately—paper maps are essential as digital signals are unreliable.

Plan your trip during the optimal season: late October through early April. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 110°F (43°C), making hiking dangerous and potentially life-threatening. Winter nights can drop below freezing, so prepare for variable conditions. Aim for a weekday to avoid weekend crowds, even though the trail sees relatively few visitors compared to more popular parks.

2. Choose Your Route

The Vulture View Trail is a 3.2-mile round-trip hike with approximately 600 feet of elevation gain. The trail begins at the Vulture View Trailhead and ascends gradually through a desert wash before climbing onto a high ridge with unobstructed 360-degree views. The trail is well-marked with cairns and occasional orange blazes, but navigation can be tricky in low light or after windstorms that shift sand patterns.

There are two primary route options:

• Standard Out-and-Back: Hike to the viewpoint and return the way you came. This is the most common and safest option for day hikers.
• Loop Option (Advanced): Combine the Vulture View Trail with the nearby Cima Dome Loop (approximately 6 miles total) for a longer, more technical hike. This requires advanced navigation skills and extra water. Only attempt if you are experienced with desert hiking and have a GPS device with offline maps.

For most visitors, the out-and-back route is recommended. It allows you to focus on the scenery, wildlife observation, and photography without overextending your physical capacity.

3. Prepare Your Gear

Proper gear is the difference between a memorable adventure and a dangerous ordeal. Here’s a non-negotiable packing list:

• Water: Carry a minimum of 2 liters per person. In cooler months, 1.5 liters may suffice, but always err on the side of excess. Consider a hydration bladder for easy access and a collapsible water bottle for backup.
• Navigation Tools: A physical topographic map (USGS 7.5-minute series: Cima, CA) and a compass. A GPS device with pre-loaded offline maps (Garmin inReach or Gaia GPS) is highly recommended.
• Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support and aggressive tread. The trail includes loose scree, sharp volcanic rock, and sandy washes. Trail runners are not recommended.
• Clothing: Moisture-wicking base layers, a lightweight long-sleeve shirt, wide-brimmed hat, and UV-protective sunglasses. Bring a lightweight windbreaker for ridge exposure. Avoid cotton—it retains moisture and increases risk of hypothermia.
• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ mineral sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, and a neck gaiter or buff. The desert sun reflects off rock and sand, intensifying UV exposure.
• First Aid Kit: Include blister treatment, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, pain relievers, and any personal medications. Snake bite kits are unnecessary—focus on wound care and hydration.
• Food: High-energy snacks: trail mix, energy bars, dried fruit, and jerky. Avoid sugary snacks that cause energy crashes.
• Emergency Gear: Whistle, headlamp with extra batteries, space blanket, and a lightweight emergency shelter (e.g., a bivy sack). Cell service is nonexistent; a satellite communicator like Garmin inReach Mini 2 is a wise investment.

4. Start Your Hike at the Right Time

Begin your hike at sunrise or shortly after. This gives you the best lighting for photography, cooler temperatures for comfort, and ample daylight to complete the trail before sunset. The trailhead parking area fills quickly during peak season, so aim to arrive by 6:30 AM. Parking is primitive—no fees or permits are required, but there are no restrooms or water stations.

As you begin, follow the faint path eastward from the trailhead sign. The initial section winds through a dry wash lined with creosote bushes and Joshua trees. Pay attention to cairns—rock piles that mark the trail—especially after the first 0.5 mile where the path becomes less distinct. Avoid cutting switchbacks; staying on the designated route prevents erosion and protects fragile desert soil.

5. Ascend to the Viewpoint

After 1.2 miles, the trail begins a steady climb up a rocky ridge. This is the most exposed section. The wind can pick up suddenly, so secure loose items and adjust layers as needed. Take short breaks every 20–30 minutes to hydrate and check your footing. The rock surface here is volcanic basalt—smooth in places, sharp in others. Use trekking poles for stability if you have them.

At the 1.6-mile mark, you’ll reach the summit ridge. The Vulture View overlook is not a single point but a broad, flat expanse with multiple vantage points. Spread out and explore safely. The view is staggering: to the west, the Cima Dome rises like a volcanic crown; to the east, the Providence Mountains fade into the horizon; below, the Mojave Desert stretches in endless waves of sage, Joshua trees, and hidden washes.

This is also the best place to observe California condors. These critically endangered birds, with wingspans up to 9.5 feet, soar on thermal updrafts above the ridge. Binoculars or a telephoto lens are essential for viewing them without disturbing their flight patterns. Never approach or attempt to feed wildlife.

6. Descend and Return Safely

Do not linger too long at the summit. Weather can change rapidly, and afternoon winds can become hazardous. Begin your descent by 1:00 PM at the latest. The return journey is easier on the knees but requires vigilance—many hikers misjudge the trail’s return path in the fading light. Use your GPS or map to confirm your location every 15–20 minutes.

As you descend, watch for signs of wildlife activity: tracks, feathers, or scat. These are indicators of a healthy ecosystem and should be observed respectfully. Avoid stepping on cryptobiotic soil—a living crust of algae, moss, and fungi that prevents erosion and supports plant life. Stay on established trails.

Once back at the trailhead, refill your water bottles with clean water from your vehicle. Wash your hands with biodegradable soap if you’ve touched rocks or soil. Leave no trace of your visit—pack out everything you brought in, including food wrappers and tissue.

7. Post-Hike Recovery and Reflection

After returning, rehydrate gradually with water and electrolytes. Avoid alcohol or caffeine for at least 4–6 hours. Eat a balanced meal with protein and complex carbohydrates to replenish energy stores. Stretch gently to prevent muscle stiffness.

Take time to reflect on your experience. Consider journaling or photographing your impressions. The Vulture View Trail is not just a physical challenge—it’s a spiritual one. Many hikers report a profound sense of peace and connection to the ancient landscape. Sharing your experience responsibly—through social media, blogs, or conversations—can help raise awareness and promote conservation.

Best Practices

Practice Leave No Trace Principles

The Mojave Desert is one of the most fragile ecosystems in North America. Vegetation grows slowly, and soil recovery can take decades. Follow these seven Leave No Trace principles to protect the trail for future generations:

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare: Know regulations, weather, and terrain. Bring the right gear to avoid emergencies.
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Stick to rock, sand, or established trails. Avoid trampling vegetation or cryptobiotic soil.
3. Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack out all trash, including biodegradable items like fruit peels. Human waste must be buried in a cathole at least 6–8 inches deep and 200 feet from water, trails, or campsites.
4. Leave What You Find: Do not collect rocks, plants, or artifacts. Even a single Joshua tree seedling can take 50 years to mature.
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts: Fires are prohibited on the Vulture View Trail. Use a camp stove if you plan to cook nearby.
6. Respect Wildlife: Observe from a distance. Never feed animals. Condors are protected under federal law—disturbing them is illegal.
7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Keep noise levels low. Yield to others on narrow sections. Share the view quietly and respectfully.

Hydration and Heat Management

Dehydration is the leading cause of hiking emergencies in desert environments. Your body loses fluids faster in dry heat, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Drink small amounts of water every 15–20 minutes, regardless of exertion level. Electrolyte tablets or powdered mixes can help maintain sodium and potassium balance.

Signs of heat exhaustion include dizziness, nausea, headache, rapid pulse, and cool, moist skin. Heat stroke—a medical emergency—presents with hot, dry skin, confusion, and loss of consciousness. If you or a companion shows symptoms, stop immediately, find shade, cool the body with wet cloths, and call for help using a satellite communicator. Do not wait to feel worse.

Wildlife Awareness

The Vulture View Trail is home to desert-adapted species including kit foxes, desert tortoises, bighorn sheep, and venomous snakes like the Mojave rattlesnake. Most animals are nocturnal and avoid humans, but encounters can happen.

If you see a rattlesnake:

• Stop and locate the snake’s position.
• Slowly back away—do not attempt to move or provoke it.
• Give it a wide berth (at least 6 feet).
• Warn others in your group.

Desert tortoises are federally protected. If you see one, do not touch it. If it’s in the middle of the trail, gently guide it off the path in the direction it was heading using a stick or rock—not your hands. Never relocate tortoises; they have small home ranges and can die if moved.

Photography and Drone Etiquette

The panoramic views from Vulture View are iconic. Many hikers bring cameras, but drone use is strictly prohibited in Mojave National Preserve without a special permit. Even with a permit, drones are banned near wildlife areas, including condor habitats. Respect the silence of the desert—let the wind and birdsong be your soundtrack.

For photography, use a polarizing filter to reduce glare on rocks and enhance sky contrast. Shoot during golden hour (sunrise or sunset) for the most dramatic lighting. Always carry extra batteries—cold temperatures drain them quickly.

Group Safety and Communication

Never hike alone on the Vulture View Trail. Even experienced hikers can slip, twist an ankle, or be caught in sudden weather. Travel in groups of at least two. Establish a communication plan: designate a check-in time with someone not on the hike. Leave a detailed itinerary with them, including your expected return time and vehicle location.

If someone in your group becomes injured, assess the situation calmly. Do not attempt to carry them unless you are trained. Use your satellite communicator to send an SOS. Stay with the injured person, keep them warm and hydrated, and wait for help. Rescue teams in this region can take several hours to arrive—patience and preparedness save lives.

Tools and Resources

Official Resources

Start with authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and safety:

• Mojave National Preserve – National Park Service: nps.gov/moja – Updated trail conditions, alerts, and downloadable maps.
• USGS Topographic Maps: Search for “Cima, CA” at apps.nationalmap.gov/viewer/ to download free, detailed topographic maps.
• California Condor Recovery Program: fws.gov/project/california-condor-recovery-program – Learn about conservation efforts and how to identify condors.

Navigation and Safety Apps

While cell service is absent, offline mapping apps are indispensable:

• Gaia GPS: Offers detailed topographic layers, satellite imagery, and offline route recording. Premium version includes trail conditions from other hikers.
• AllTrails: User-submitted reviews and photos. Download the trail map offline before entering the preserve.
• Garmin inReach Mini 2: Satellite communicator with two-way messaging and SOS. Works anywhere on Earth. Essential for solo hikers.
• Compass + GPS: A physical compass paired with a printed map is the most reliable backup. Practice using them before your trip.

Books and Guides

Deepen your understanding of the region with these recommended reads:

• Desert Hiking: A Guide to the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts by David A. Leibowitz – Practical advice on desert survival, flora, and fauna.
• The Mojave Desert: A Natural History by David R. Martin – A richly illustrated guide to the ecology and geology of the area.
• Leave No Trace: A Guide to the New Wilderness Etiquette by Robert E. Anderson – The definitive guide to ethical outdoor practices.

Community and Volunteer Resources

Connect with local conservation groups:

• Mojave Desert Land Trust: Volunteers assist with trail maintenance and habitat restoration. Join a workday to give back.
• California Condor Watch: Citizen science program that trains volunteers to monitor condor activity. Report sightings via their online portal.
• Desert Studies Center: Offers educational workshops on desert ecology and hiking safety in the region.

Weather and Climate Tools

Monitor conditions before departure:

• NOAA Desert Weather Forecast: weather.gov/lox – Local forecast for Kelso, CA.
• Windy.com: Real-time wind patterns and temperature gradients. Essential for ridge hiking.
• Desert Temperature Tracker: Use the National Weather Service’s historical data to understand average highs and lows for your planned dates.

Real Examples

Example 1: Sarah’s First Desert Hike

Sarah, a 28-year-old teacher from Los Angeles, had never hiked in a desert before. Inspired by a documentary on California condors, she planned a solo trip to Vulture View. She underestimated the heat and packed only one liter of water. Midway up the ridge, she began to feel lightheaded and disoriented. Fortunately, she had a Garmin inReach device and sent a distress signal. A ranger from Kelso Depot responded within two hours, finding her dehydrated but conscious. Sarah spent the next week recovering and later became an advocate for desert safety education. She now leads guided hikes for beginners, emphasizing hydration and communication.

Example 2: The Martinez Family Adventure

The Martinez family—parents and two teenage children—hiked the Vulture View Trail in November. They prepared meticulously: each carried 2.5 liters of water, used Gaia GPS, and brought a first aid kit. They arrived at sunrise and spent two hours at the summit, photographing condors and identifying desert plants using a field guide. They followed Leave No Trace principles, packing out every scrap of trash. On their return, they found a discarded plastic bottle and added it to their pack to dispose of properly. Their experience became a family tradition, and they now volunteer with the Mojave Desert Land Trust.

Example 3: The Solo Hiker Who Got Lost

A 45-year-old experienced hiker from Nevada attempted the loop option without downloading offline maps. His phone battery died after 1.5 miles. He wandered off-trail trying to find his way back, triggering a search-and-rescue operation. He was found 12 hours later, exhausted and suffering from mild hypothermia. He later admitted he ignored warnings about the trail’s difficulty and overestimated his ability to navigate without tools. His story is now used in NPS safety seminars to warn against overconfidence.

Example 4: The Condor Watch Volunteer

James, a retired biologist, joined the California Condor Watch program in 2020. He hikes the Vulture View Trail weekly, logging condor sightings, flight patterns, and interactions with other birds. His data helped researchers identify a new thermal updraft zone critical for condor conservation. His reports contributed to a 2022 policy change that restricted drone activity near the ridge. James says, “The trail doesn’t belong to me. I’m just a temporary guest. My job is to protect it.”

FAQs

Is the Vulture View Trail suitable for beginners?

Yes, but only for physically fit beginners who are well-prepared. The trail is not technically difficult, but its remoteness, exposure, and lack of water make it challenging. Beginners should hike with an experienced partner, carry ample water, and avoid the trail during hot months.

Do I need a permit to hike the Vulture View Trail?

No permit is required for day hiking. However, if you plan to camp overnight in the Mojave National Preserve, you must obtain a free backcountry permit from the Kelso Depot Visitor Center.

Can I bring my dog on the trail?

No. Pets are not permitted on the Vulture View Trail or any backcountry trails in Mojave National Preserve. This protects native wildlife, especially desert tortoises and birds, from disturbance and disease.

Are there water sources along the trail?

No. There are no natural or man-made water sources on the trail. You must carry all the water you need. Do not rely on finding water in washes—they are dry for most of the year.

What should I do if I see a California condor?

Observe quietly from a distance. Do not approach, shout, or use flash photography. Condors are extremely sensitive to human disturbance. If you have a camera with a telephoto lens, use it to capture the moment without intruding. Report sightings to the California Condor Recovery Program via their online form.

Is the trail accessible in winter?

Yes, winter (December–February) is one of the best times to hike. Temperatures range from 40°F to 65°F, and the skies are often clear. However, nights can be freezing. Bring insulated layers and be prepared for icy patches on shaded rocks in the early morning.

How long does the hike take?

Most hikers complete the 3.2-mile round-trip in 2.5 to 4 hours, depending on pace, photo stops, and wildlife observation. Allow extra time if you’re new to desert hiking.

Can I camp near the trailhead?

No camping is allowed at the Vulture View Trailhead. Designated backcountry campsites are available elsewhere in the preserve. You must obtain a permit and hike to a designated site. Do not camp on the ridge—it’s a critical condor habitat.

Is the trail crowded?

Unlike major national parks, Vulture View sees very few visitors—typically fewer than 20 people per day. You are likely to have the trail and viewpoint to yourself. This solitude is part of its magic.

What’s the best time of year to see condors?

Condors are active year-round, but spring (March–May) and fall (September–October) offer the best viewing. Thermal updrafts are strongest during these seasons, allowing them to soar effortlessly. Early morning is the most reliable time to spot them.

Conclusion

Hiking the Vulture View Trail is more than a physical excursion—it’s a pilgrimage into one of the most ancient and resilient landscapes on Earth. The silence of the desert, the majesty of the condors, and the stark beauty of the volcanic ridges leave a lasting imprint on those who take the journey with respect and preparation. This guide has provided you with the essential knowledge to navigate the trail safely, ethically, and meaningfully. But knowledge alone is not enough. It is your actions—how you carry your water, how you treat the soil, how you observe the wildlife—that determine whether this trail remains wild for generations to come.

The Vulture View Trail does not require bravery to conquer. It asks for humility. It asks you to move slowly, listen closely, and leave nothing behind but footprints. In a world increasingly defined by noise and haste, this trail offers a rare gift: the chance to remember what it means to be small, and yet profoundly connected, to something timeless.

So lace up your boots, fill your bottles, and step onto the trail—not as a tourist, but as a steward. The desert is watching. And it remembers.