General Trip Planning Information
Always leave trip information with family or friends. This means your trip length, when you will return, and where you will be departing from in the park.
Take adequate provisions with you including food and water. Remember, you are in a desert and water is scarce. In addition, carry a basic first aid kit.
Before your trip, learn about the hazards you may encounter and take adequate precautions. Select appropriate clothing and equipment. Always hike with a companion.
Know your own limitations and the abilities and weaknesses of your hiking companions. Plan your route and rate of travel around the weakest member. Make sure that each member of your party knows what gear the others have packed.
Have an emergency plan. When journeying into the wilderness if an emergency arises, you may not be able to reach help in a timely manner. This means cell phones and radios may not work in rugged or remote parts of the park.
Know your location using a map, Global Positioning System (GPS) and/or compass. If you encounter trouble, do not be afraid to turn back. Be aware that trails, trail signs, and place signs may be missing due to vandalism or wash outs.
Recreational Opportunities
Approximately 7 miles of trail are designated in the Wilderness at Hidden Valley, the Gale Hills, and Anniversary Narrows, though there are other access points where you may find user-created routes to explore the wilderness area. Note that horse travel in the wilderness is limited to designated trails and washes.
The Muddy Mountains Wilderness provides a striking backdrop for hiking, horseback riding, and camping. Rock climbing and scrambling are allowed without the placement of fixed anchors. Hunting is permissible, but because of fragile vegetation and cryptogamic soil crusts, cross-country use of recreational riding or pack stock is not permitted. The only exception is for members of a hunting party in possession of a valid state hunting license and tag, and in pursuit of big game during hunting. Backcountry permits are not required.