Mokaac Trail | Utah
Scenic views, chance wildlife sightings, and a sense of history await you on the Mokaac Trail.
Visitors can enjoy a beginner to intermediate hiking experience on this two-mile route.
The Mokaac Trail was once a well-traveled, two track route and part of an old road from the 1900’s that led to the western portion of the Arizona Strip. The trail is no longer a part of the active road system but remains a symbol of earlier times and modes of transportation, including the Model T, which some Arizona Strip settlers used to reach their cabins and ranches from the City of St. George, Utah. The Civilian Conservation Corp made improvements to the old road in the 1930’s. The trail was later converted to a singletrack route that now parallels BLM road 1069.
Pronounced “Moa-a-ak” or “Mok-ee-ak,” the name is derived from an American Indian word for a nearby mountain.
The trail consists of crumbly rock and hard pack dirt suitable for beginner and intermediate hikers. The western portion of the trail is along a gradual downhill slope, but the route is easy to follow and provides visitors with a pleasant hiking experience, especially during one of the Arizona Strip’s classically beautiful and sunny days. The eastern section, located on the opposite side of BLM road 1069, has an uphill climb and is not as clearly defined. The short climb along the eastern portion of the trail meanders through stands of fragrant juniper, guiding visitors to tranquil views to the north of the City of St. George, the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area, and the Dixie National Forest Pine Valley Recreation Area from slightly higher elevations.
Hours and Seasons
The Mokaac Trail is open to the public all year and free of charge. The best time to visit is spring, fall, and winter or early morning during summer months.
Features and Services
Access and Parking: The parking area consists of hard-packed ground. Trailers not advised. 4WD vehicle needed.
Drinking Water: There is no drinking water available. Bring plenty of water.
Toilets: Not available
Cell Phone and Internet: Not reliable
Pets: Hikers with dogs should yield to all other trail users. While leashes are not required on all trails, visitors should keep dogs close and under control when passing other hikers, children, horses, or other dogs.
Nearby Attractions and Amenities: There are many things to do and places to stay while visiting the Arizona Strip. Nearby public lands include BLM Utah's Red Mountain Wilderness, Red Cliffs National Conservation Area, and Dixie National Forest’s Pine Valley Ranger District.
Safety and Conditions
You are responsible for your own safety. Call 911 to contact local law enforcement, obtain emergency services, or report a fire. While enjoying your visit, keep in mind that there is no first aid available on-site. Let someone know where you are and what to do if you do not return on time.
Expect potential hazards such as venomous reptiles and invertebrates, extreme heat or cold, and flash floods. Be prepared for changes in weather and stay informed on weather warning alerts. Make sure you have the appropriate gear, food and water.
Respect and Protect
The area is home to many species of wildlife. Please remember to practice outdoor ethics and recreate responsibly. Help us protect this unique environment by leaving no trace during your visit.
Check for fire restrictions before your visit. Using exploding targets, fireworks, sky lanterns, tracer ammunition and other incendiary devices is prohibited on BLM-managed public land in Arizona.
Report crimes to resources including vandalism, dumping and suspicious activity at 1-800-637-9152.
Accessibility Description (ABA/ADA)
Because the primary purpose of this trail is to provide a primitive experience within an undeveloped natural setting, the site may present challenges to accessibility. The parking area and trail consist of hard-packed dirt and are largely on uneven ground. The trail also consists of hard-packed dirt and winds through rocky terrain with gradual grades.
Contact Us
Activities
Addresses
Geographic Coordinates
Directions
The Mokaac Trail is reached by traveling south from St. George, Utah, on River Road. At the Utah and Arizona state line, the road becomes Quail Hill Road (BLM Road #1069/County 5). Follow the road for about 12 miles. The Mokaac trailhead is clearly signed on the west side of BLM road 1069 at the top of the grade, also known as “Quail Hill.” Visitors will enjoy reading stories of the trail’s historic uses on the interpretive sign at the trailhead.
Fees
The Mokaac Trail is open to the public all year and free of charge.
However, commercial, competitive, and large organized group events require a special recreation permit. Contact the Arizona Strip Field Office, located at the interagency Public Lands Center in St. George, Utah, for more information about special recreation permits.