Join Frank Golden and the Friends of Gold Butte as we hike to Beer Can Fence and Hen Springs. This hike is rated as moderate. It is about 4 miles round trip and climbs about 500 feet of elevation gain. This hike is more of a stroll as we will use the historic Hen Springs Road, that parallels Bunkerville Ridge. We will stroll at a comfortable pace with numerous stops to talk about the geology and biology of the area. The Hen Springs Canyon area is an example of a transition zone from the Mohave Desert Scrub to the Pinyon-Juniper Woodland. Our destination is a small knoll at Hen Springs where the young at heart can practice their yodeling skills. On our return, we will pick up some trash that is accumulating around Beer Can Fence. Just to clarify, we won’t be removing any cans that are attached to the fence.

We will be walking on a dirt road for the most part but there are uneven surfaces so a hiking stick or trekking poles may be helpful. Hiking boots with ankle support are recommended.

We will meet at the junction of Lime Kiln Canyon Rd (Hwy 242) and Elbow Canyon Rd (the back way to Scenic AZ) at 9:00 am and expect to return by 3:00 pm. THIS IS NOT THE KIOSK WHERE WE NORMALLY MEET FOR MANY OF OUR HIKES. As you leave Mesquite on Riverside Rd., take the first left just after crossing the bridge. About one mile out, the road curves left and a gravel road continues straight ahead. That is where we will meet. Vehicles will need high clearance and all-wheel drive at a minimum. All of our hikes are free and open to the public. We are currently not offering carpooling, because of Covid-19.

For all hikes, please wear sturdy shoes, breathable clothes, and a hat. It’s a good idea to dress in layers. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, water, lunch, and snacks, and don’t forget your PPE and hand sanitizer. We will be practicing social distancing, so please be cognizant of your proximity to others. There are no stores or facilities in Gold Butte; be prepared to pee in the bushes. We practice Leave No Trace ethics so be prepared to carry out everything you bring in.

With Covid restrictions in place, we also have had to reduce the number of people for each of our outings. We are sorry about that, and hope it is a temporary thing. Keeping that in mind, please adhere to social distancing protocol at all times and please do not attend if you’re feeling ill or have symptoms. Masks will be required when in close proximity of others.

If you register for this hike and then aren’t able to go, please remove yourself from the “going” list and let one of the organizers know. This will allow someone on the waitlist to be notified and plan to attend. We understand that things come up last minute, but if you do not notify us and just do not show up, you will be tagged as a “no-show” and that could result in your not being permitted to register for future events. It is suggested that you give 48 hours notice if you’re not able to attend. We know that’s not always possible, especially in the case of illness, but please be courteous and let us know!!