Kayaking and Canoeing Lake Mohave

 

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Lake Mohave is a widening of the Colorado River about half way between Hoover Dam and Bullhead City Arizona.  Most visitors to Lake Mohave go to the Nevada side where the roads, although dirt, are usually well maintained.  That’s a pity because while the Nevada shore is mostly barren rock and sand, the Arizona side is lush with vegetation which makes for some of the prettiest paddling in the region.

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Water levels in Lake Mohave are usually high even when Lake Mead is low.  The result is a flooded forest through which you can paddle.

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The Lake is teeming with wildlife and a major stop over for migratory birds.  Bass and carp are abundant in the waters and heron and turkey vultures are frequently seen along the shore.  The area is also home to many wild burros.

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Unfortunately, Cottonwood Road to Lake Mohave from the Arizona side is usually in terrible shape and often impassible except by high clearance 4X4 vehicles.  When the author last visited in early May 2017 it was much improved and passable by regular passenger sedan however.

To get to Lake Mohave and the kayak put in spot, take Arizona Route 93 to Cottonwood Road (near Dolan Springs) and head west.  Continue straight to the shore (Pot Cove) and put your kayak or canoe in near the vault toilet.

There are also primitive and private campsites along the shore north of Pot Cove.   The road north along the shore is in even worse shape than Cottonwood Road but if your vehicle can handle it, it’s worth it.