Fire Wave Valley of Fire: The Fire Wave Trail
Route, terrain, closures and park rules for the Fire Wave Trail
Route, Trailhead and Terrain
The Fire Wave Trail is about 1.5 miles total, out and back, over loose sand and rocky terrain. The trailhead is parking lot P3, which sits five miles north of the Visitor Center.
The terrain is rough and uneven, with loose sand underfoot. The roughly 1.5-mile Fire Wave hike feels like about a 3-mile hike to the average person.
| Measure | Value |
|---|---|
| Total length, out and back | About 1.5 miles |
| Perceived length for the average person | About 3 miles |
| Trailhead | Parking lot P3 |
| Trailhead location | Five miles north of the Visitor Center |
| Surface | Loose sand and rocky terrain |
The Summer Closure
The Fire Wave trail is among the park trails closed every year from May 15 to September 30. Many park trails, including White Domes Loop and Fire Wave, are closed on those same dates each year.
The Fire Wave is listed in the same closure group as the Seven Wonders Loop, Pastel Canyon and Pink Canyon trails. These trails have a history of medical calls, search and rescue missions and fatalities during that period, and the summer closures include the Fire Wave.
Winter Daytime Temperatures
Winter daytime temperatures at Valley of Fire range from 54 to 75 °F (12 to 24 °C).
After Sunset and Park Rules
The park closes at sunset, and anyone in the park after hours must be attending a park-approved event in the specific area where it is held. During the night hike event, all trails and areas other than the designated trail are closed after sunset. Pets are not allowed on the Fire Wave new moon hike event. Commercial photography in the park is prohibited without a permit.
Guided Hikes and Tours
The Hidden Arch Loop guided hike is a strenuous 1.25-mile off-trail loop through washes and ravines that requires basic scrambling.
Tours and activities
Fire Wave Trail Questions
Frequently asked questions
When is the Fire Wave Trail closed?
The Fire Wave trail is closed every year from May 15 to September 30, along with other park trails such as White Domes Loop.
Which other trails share the Fire Wave closure?
The Fire Wave is listed in the same closure group as the Seven Wonders Loop, Pastel Canyon and Pink Canyon trails.
Where is the Fire Wave trailhead?
The trail is reached from parking lot P3, five miles north of the Visitor Center.
How long is the Fire Wave hike?
The trail is about 1.5 miles total, out and back. The terrain makes it feel like about a 3-mile hike to the average person.
What is the ground like on the trail?
The terrain is rough and uneven, with loose sand and rocky stretches.
Are pets allowed on the Fire Wave new moon hike event?
No. Pets are not allowed on the Fire Wave new moon hike event.
Can visitors stay in the park after sunset?
The park closes at sunset. Anyone in the park after hours must be attending a park-approved event in the specific area where it is held, and during the night hike event all trails and areas other than the designated trail are closed after sunset.
Is commercial photography allowed in the park?
Commercial photography in the park is prohibited without a permit.