Carp Cove to Cottonwood Cove
Total Miles
2.6
Elevation
234.62 ft
Duration
0.5 Hours
Technical Rating
Best Time
Spring, Fall
Trail Overview
This trail connects the Cottonwood Cove on Lake Mojave to Carp Cove. Signs are posted indicating a 17-day camping limit. Off-road driving is only allowed on trails marked with a yellow arrow in this area. Keep your eye out for those. Driving off-road on all other trails is prohibited. 4x4 is recommended; a Subaru or all-wheel-drive vehicle could get back here. Some of the trail is loose sandy gravel. Out at Carp Cove, there is a dispersed campsite just above the water. From the campsite, there is access to walk down to the water with a small little beach. Depending on the water level, it is possible to continue further out on the peninsula, where there may be more campsites with water access depending on the time of year. This campsite can accommodate four vehicles, possibly more. However, there are only about four level spots to park. This cove has beautiful views of the mountains and the lake. In late winter or early spring, it is quiet. This area is part of the Lake Mead Recreation Area; before visiting, it's encouraged to look up and abide by all Lake Mead Rec Area rules. This area is remote, with no services. Bring extra water and supplies when traveling out to these coves, especially in the summer months. There are a few bars of cell service out at the coves. Federal regulations prohibit motor vehicles except on park roads and parking areas. Vehicles are permitted only on approved roads and only when they are properly licensed for street use. SXS, ATVs, and Motorcycles plated for street use could access these trails.
Photos of Carp Cove to Cottonwood Cove
Difficulty
The trail is one vehicle wide for most of the trail. The road surface is loose gravel and dirt. Some sections of this trail are in loose sand/gravel washes.
History
Check out Lake Mead Virtual Museum with historic images: https://www.nps.gov/features/lake/museum/historic-lake-mohave.html#12116.