Last updated: October 13, 2026
Thing to Do
Hike the Liberty Bell Arch Trail
NPS
To help keep visitors and first responder staff safe from dangerously high temperatures during the hottest time of year, Lake Mead National Recreation Area institutes an annual seasonal closure of certain strenuous trails from May 15 to September 30.
Temporary closures will take place outside of these dates when temperatures are forecasted to reach 95 Fahrenheit or higher at Willow Beach (AZ), or if flash floods are possible.
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The Liberty Bell Arch trail starts from the White Rock Canyon parking area and heads west under the highway bridge towards the Colorado River. While there is no river access on this trail, hikers are rewarded throughout their adventure with geological highlights, remnants of a historic magnesium mine going back to the days of WWII, and a fantastic panoramic view overlooking the Colorado River from 1000 ft. up.
Trail Information
- Trailhead: DIRECTIONS
- Parking: Shared trailhead. Parking located just off U.S. Highway 93 before mile post 4, south of Hoover Dam.
- Distance: 5.5 miles roundtrip
- Elevation Gain: 750 ft. elevation change
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- THIS TRAIL IS NOT MAINTAINED
- Services: Scenic view/photo spot, trash/litter receptacles.
Details
Duration
4-8 Hours
Duration represents the time it would take to complete the entire trail roundtrip.
Activity
Front-Country Hiking
- Drinking water is not available at the trailhead.
Pets Allowed
Yes
- Pets must be kept on a leash not to exceed six feet in length at all times.
- Pets should not be left unattended.
- We require that you clean up after your pet at all times.
Activity Fee
Yes
The Liberty Bell Arch Trail is in a fee area, like the rest of the park. Keep your park pass or proof of admission with your vehicle for rangers to inspect.
Reservations
No
Season
Winter, Spring, Fall
The Liberty Bell Arch Trail is closed annually from May 15 - September 30.
Accessibility Information
This trail is an unmaintained route through a normally dry desert wash. The wash is made of soft sand, gravel, rocks, and boulders its entire length. There are steep grades as well as rock ledges a few feet high that must be climbed over.