Princess Wash Cove

Trail Overview

This trail is on the southern end of Lake Mojave. This end of the Lake Mead National Recreation Area has an entrance station and lake use fees. Lake Mead passes can be purchased online or at one of the entrance stations. Entrance fees are $25 per vehicle; admit a private non-commercial vehicle for 1-7 days. Motorcycles are $20. The America the Beautiful National Parks Pass will also admit entrance to this area. This trail picks up off the Paved Cabin Site Road. Turning onto the dirt, the trail immediately heads down a loose rocky descent. At the bottom of the hill, the trail hits a Y. This trail continues to the left, heading down a sandy gravel wash. The wash twists and turns, making its way down to the water. At the end of the trail is a large cove. Multiple cars can park down in the cove. The water level in the coves will change depending on the time of year, how much water is being let out of the dam, and if there have been any recent storms. There is 5G cell service at the Princess Cove Boat Launch and picnic area on the hill above this cove. There's no service in the camping area down in this cove. Signage in the area indicates a 17-day dispersed camping limit. Stay on trails marked with a yellow arrow. 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. All other off-road driving is prohibited in this area. 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 to these coves, especially in the summer. There are a few bars of cell service out at the coves.

Photos of Princess Wash Cove

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Difficulty

The trail starts with a narrow, loose downhill and is only one vehicle wide. Oncoming vehicles will have to back up to let other vehicles pass. The lower section of the trail is a gravel sand wash.

History

Check out the Lake Mead Virtual Museum with historic images: https://www.nps.gov/features/lake/museum/historic-lake-mohave.html#12116.

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