Paiute Wilderness

Paiute Wilderness is a protected desert area in Mohave County, Arizona, spanning vast tracts of varied terrain. The landscape features deep canyons, open flats, and forested slopes that rise and fall across different elevations.

The area received wilderness designation in 1984 through the Bureau of Land Management as part of the National Wilderness Preservation System. This protection ensures the land remains undeveloped and maintains its natural character.

The land supports 250 animal species, including mule deer, mountain lions, desert bighorn sheep, and desert tortoises across different ecological zones.

The area is most easily reached from the south via Virgin River Canyon, located near Interstate 15. Bring sturdy footwear and plenty of water, as the terrain is rough and exposed.

The terrain contains multiple vegetation zones, ranging from dense pine forests at higher elevations to desert shrubs in the lowlands. This variety develops because of significant elevation changes across relatively short distances.