Clipper Mountain Wilderness, Desert wilderness area in San Bernardino County, California.

Clipper Mountain Wilderness is a protected area in the Mojave Desert marked by yellow and brown striped mesas and narrow canyons with hidden springs. The landscape spreads across alluvial fans with minimal vegetation coverage and exposed rock formations throughout.

The Clipper Mountain Wilderness is managed by the Bureau of Land Management and covers 33,843 acres of the northern Clipper Mountains. It adjoins the Mojave National Preserve to the south and lies 50 miles west of Needles, next to Interstate 40 and historic U.S. Route 66. The range runs northeast to southwest, with Clipper Mountain rising to 4,625 feet above the Fenner and Clipper valleys.

The name comes from Clipper Mountain, the central ridge that rises to 4,625 feet. The area lies within Mojave Trails National Monument and is managed by the Bureau of Land Management. In spring the alluvial fans turn yellow with brittlebush (Encelia farinosa) and other desert wildflowers, a seasonal display visitors can time a trip around.

Preparation is essential because water is scarce and summer temperatures regularly exceed 115 degrees Fahrenheit (46 degrees Celsius). Bring plenty of water, strong sun protection, and reliable gear to stay safe in this harsh environment.

The entire wilderness is designated critical habitat for the threatened desert tortoise, a species that spends most of its life underground and is easiest to spot after spring rains. Visitors should keep their distance and never handle one.