Hiking Bonanza Peak in the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area

Bonanza Peak sits in the northern part of the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area, overlooked by many and less crowded as a result. The trailhead begins at 7,500′ and climbs steadily over five miles to the 10,377′ summit, with awesome views from the summit. The trailhead is frequently visited by wild horses, and in the spring, this trail rewards hikers with a “bonanza” of wildflowers.

Getting to the Bonanza Trailhead

From Las Vegas, head north on I-15. Turn left on Cold Creek Road, following it 16 miles to the end at the trailhead. Two miles before the trailhead, the pavement ends and the road becomes a rough dirt road.

We drove out in a Toyota Sienna minivan, but after heavy rain, this road is subject to washouts and a high-clearance vehicle is recommended.

Hiking to Bonanza Peak

I had heard this trail described as “mostly shaded”. The trail to the ridge is forested, but I’d estimate shade coverage at 40% at best. I hiked this in June and started pretty early, so the temperature for the ascent was pleasant, but it was getting hot on the way down, especially in the sun.

The trail begins with a gradual incline, and mostly shaded in the early morning light.

As the trail climbs, there are numerous switchbacks and much more sunlight breaks through.

The switchbacks are well graded and the trail is excellent condition.

The wildflowers were abundant in June. Photos don’t do it justice.

Approaching the saddle. This marks the end of the first main section of the climb. Bonanza Peak is off to the left in the distance, possibly just out of sight from this position.

Rust-colored lichen on the rocks contrasted with the healthy succulents.

Looking out towards the valley below.

The Bonanza Trail is well established, but the trail to the summit is not. Watch for a cairn or similar markers for a use trail on your left. If the trail begins descending, you may have missed the use trail.

The views from Bonanza Peak were beautiful, though you had to move around a bit to see through the trees

This was our final hike for this trip. We had hiked five of the six peaks in the Las Vegas Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge over four consecutive days.

The view west from Bonanza Peak, with Ethan signing the summit register.

The Three Amigos on Bonanza Peak. Lucie waited for us at the saddle for the descent back to the trailhead.

The trip back down was considerably warmer — almost too warm.  During our ascent we only saw two other people. They had spent the night near the summit and were on their way down. As we descended we ran across several small groups of day hikers climbing. It’s entirely weather dependent, but I was thankful we started at sunrise and beat the worst of the heat on our climb.

Bonanza Peak Trail Map & Elevation Profile

Bonanza Peak Tips & Resources

• There is no water available on this trail. Bring plenty, as well as the 10 Essentials.
• The small town near the trailhead is private. There are no stores, restaurants or services available. Plan accordingly.
• If you don’t have a high-clearance vehicle, there is a parking area to the right as you start on the gravel section of the road to the trailhead. You can park here and hike the road to the actual trailhead, but it is exposed and adds several miles to your total.

The Las Vegas Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge

Bonanza Peak is part of the Las Vegas Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge, a self-paced hiking challenge that takes you up six iconic mountains, each a bit higher and harder. It’s a challenge in itself, or a great way to train for bigger adventures. And your registration help support some great outdoor-related non-profits.

Learn more and sign-up here.

Written by

Jeff Hester

Founder, SoCalHiker.net · Founder, Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge

Jeff has hiked and explored trails for over 50 years, covering everything from casual canyon walks to rugged multi-day Sierra routes. He started SoCalHiker.net in 2010 to document the trails he loves — and to make it easier for others to discover them.

@theSoCalHikerSoCalHiker.net

Originally hiked on June 12, 2022 with Ethan, Lucie and Richard.