This Famous Dune Hike in Arizona Has a Feature You Won’t Want to Miss

When you picture a dune hike in Arizona, the arid desert landscape iconic to the Grand Canyon State probably comes to mind. But what if I told you there's a trail with sand dunes that overlooks a sparkling lake? The Three Dunes Trail at Cattail Cove State Park in Lake Havasu City is one of the most unique hikes in Arizona because the deep blue water offers a stark contrast to the dusty dunes. The hike is long, at just under eight miles, but it's easy, and the postcard-worthy views are definitely worth the time you'll spend on the trail.

Where This Dune Hike in Arizona Is and What Makes It Famous

Three Dunes Trail is a 7.7-mile hike at Cattail Cove State Park, just seven miles south of Lake Havasu City. The park is accessible via State Route 95 and is located along the Colorado River near the Arizona/California border. As its name suggests, the trail features three tall sand dunes that hikers can climb and admire the striking waters of Lake Havasu. While popular, this sand dune hike in Arizona is less crowded than other trails within the park, so you can enjoy some peace and quiet while taking in the beautiful scenery.

What It’s Like to Hike This Trail

Despite its length, the Three Dunes Trail is beginner-friendly, with an elevation gain of under 700 feet. The terrain is rocky at first, but not too steep or uneven, so novice hikers shouldn't have any trouble. Still, plan on setting aside a few hours to complete the trail since it's so long. It's always better to give yourself more time than you think you'll need for several reasons: one, in case of any unforeseen circumstances, and two, so you can stop and enjoy the views without feeling rushed. There's a bench on the sand near the water's edge, and it's the perfect opportunity to revel in the tranquility before jumping back into your day. One of the top reasons I consider this one of the best hikes in Arizona is the rare combination of desert and water. The dunes are covered in cacti and other native plants, and the water is so pristine that it shimmers in the sunlight. It's such a unique pairing that's hard to find anywhere else.

Tips for Visiting

As with many Arizona hikes, the Three Dunes Trail is best visited early in the morning to beat the heat, especially during the summer. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures. Bring plenty of water and wear durable shoes that will withstand the rocky landscape.

Visit the Arizona State Parks website for more information about Cattail Cove State Park, including entry fees and other park activities. Go Lake Havasu and AllTrails provide details on the Three Dunes Trail, such as directions and current trail conditions. Interested in more unique hiking in Arizona? Check out these trails that lead to epic hidden caves.

The Three Dunes Trail is not only one of the most scenic hikes in Arizona, but perhaps among the best hikes in the USA. Seeing the arid sand dunes next to the sparkling blue waters of the Colorado River is so unexpected, and it's this uniqueness that keeps hikers coming back for more.