How to Hike Lake Havasu London Bridge

The Lake Havasu London Bridge is one of the most iconic and unexpected landmarks in the American Southwest. Originally constructed in 1831 across the River Thames in London, England, this historic stone arch bridge was dismantled, shipped across the ocean, and meticulously reconstructed in Lake Havasu City, Arizona, between 1967 and 1971. What began as a bold real estate venture by entrepreneur Robert P. McCulloch has since become a globally recognized tourist destination — and a surprisingly rewarding hiking destination.

While many visitors come to admire the bridge’s architecture, snap photos with the backdrop of the Colorado River, or enjoy the bustling waterfront promenade, few realize that the bridge and its surrounding area offer a unique hiking experience. The trail around the bridge combines historical curiosity, desert ecology, and panoramic river views — all within a compact, accessible loop. Whether you’re a casual walker, a photography enthusiast, or an avid hiker seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences in the Southwest, the Lake Havasu London Bridge hike delivers a memorable blend of culture and nature.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step tutorial on how to hike the Lake Havasu London Bridge — from preparation and navigation to safety, gear, and insider tips. You’ll learn not only the practical route but also the context that makes this hike special. By the end of this guide, you’ll have everything you need to confidently plan, execute, and enjoy this one-of-a-kind desert hike.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Understand the Hike Overview

The Lake Havasu London Bridge hike is not a traditional mountain trail. It is a flat, paved, and well-maintained loop that circles the bridge and connects to the surrounding parklands. The entire route spans approximately 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) and takes between 45 minutes and 1.5 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how many stops you make. The elevation gain is negligible — under 50 feet — making this hike suitable for all fitness levels, including families with children and seniors.

The trail begins and ends at the London Bridge Visitor Center, located at 1600 London Bridge Road, Lake Havasu City, AZ. The path winds along the eastern and western shores of the bridge, offering multiple vantage points to photograph the structure, view the river, and observe local wildlife. There are also interpretive signs along the route detailing the bridge’s history and the geology of the surrounding Mojave Desert.

2. Choose the Right Time to Hike

Timing is critical for comfort and safety. Lake Havasu City experiences extreme summer heat, with temperatures frequently exceeding 110°F (43°C) between June and August. Hiking during these months is not recommended unless you are extremely well-prepared.

The ideal seasons are:

• October to November: Mild temperatures, low humidity, and clear skies.
• February to April: Spring blooms in the desert, cooler mornings, and fewer crowds.
• December to January: Cool to chilly mornings (40–60°F / 4–15°C), perfect for early hikes.

Avoid hiking between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. during spring and fall. Early morning (7–9 a.m.) or late afternoon (4–6 p.m.) are optimal for light, temperature, and photography.

3. Prepare Your Gear

Even though this is a short, flat hike, desert conditions demand preparation. Here’s what to bring:

• Water: Carry at least 1 liter (34 oz) per person. Two liters is recommended in warmer months.
• Footwear: Sturdy walking shoes or trail runners with good grip. The pavement is smooth, but loose gravel and uneven edges near the riverbank can be slippery.
• Sun protection: Wide-brimmed hat, UV-blocking sunglasses, and broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen.
• Lightweight clothing: Moisture-wicking fabrics, light colors, and breathable layers. Avoid cotton — it retains sweat and increases risk of heat stress.
• Snacks: Energy bars, nuts, or fruit to maintain hydration and energy.
• Phone and portable charger: For navigation, photos, and emergencies.
• Small backpack or waist pack: To carry essentials without bulk.
• Binoculars (optional): Useful for spotting birds and wildlife along the river.

Do not rely on public water fountains. While some rest areas have them, they are not always operational. Always assume you’ll need to bring your own.

4. Start at the London Bridge Visitor Center

Your hike begins at the London Bridge Visitor Center, which features restrooms, informational displays, and a small gift shop. Park your vehicle in the designated lot adjacent to the center. There is no entrance fee to hike the bridge or surrounding trails.

Before you begin, take a moment to review the trail map posted outside the center. The route is clearly marked with painted arrows and signage, but it’s helpful to orient yourself. The main loop is marked in blue, with side paths leading to observation decks and picnic areas.

5. Follow the Eastern Shore Trail

From the visitor center, head east along the paved pathway that runs parallel to the bridge’s eastern side. This section offers the most iconic views of the bridge’s arches reflected in the calm waters of the Colorado River. The path is wide, shaded intermittently by desert shrubs, and lined with benches every 200–300 feet.

As you walk, look for interpretive panels that explain the bridge’s journey from London to Arizona. One panel details how 1,800 tons of stone were shipped in 1968 aboard the SS St. Cuthbert and reassembled by 400 skilled stonemasons. Another highlights the engineering challenge of anchoring the bridge into the desert bedrock beneath the river.

Continue past the bridge’s midpoint until you reach the first major observation deck — a raised platform with a panoramic view of the entire structure. This is an excellent spot for photos, especially during golden hour.

6. Cross the Bridge and Enter the Western Shore

At the end of the eastern trail, you’ll reach a pedestrian crossing over the bridge itself. The bridge is open to foot traffic and bicycles. Do not walk on the vehicle lanes — use the designated sidewalk on the south side of the bridge.

As you cross, pause to look down at the river. You may spot bass, catfish, or even the occasional river otter. The bridge’s original 19th-century stonework is visible in the lower arches — a striking contrast to the modern concrete supports added during reconstruction.

Once on the western side, the trail continues along the riverbank, but this section is slightly more natural. The pavement gives way to compacted dirt and gravel in places, and the vegetation becomes denser. Look for desert willows, creosote bushes, and occasional cacti.

7. Explore the Western Observation Points

The western trail features two key observation points:

• Harbor View Overlook: A short detour leads to a bluff with a sweeping view of the marina, the bridge, and the distant hills of the Mojave Desert. This is the best spot for wide-angle shots of the entire scene.
• Desert Edge Trailhead: A marked path branches off here for those interested in a longer, more rugged hike. This is optional and not part of the standard bridge loop — we’ll cover it in the Best Practices section.

Take your time here. The western side is quieter, with fewer tourists and more opportunities for solitude. You may encounter local birdwatchers or photographers capturing the sunset over the water.

8. Return via the Northern Connector Trail

After exploring the western side, follow the path northward along the shoreline. This section is shaded by a canopy of mesquite trees and features several picnic tables and public restrooms. The trail is wide and flat, ideal for families.

At the northern end, the path curves back toward the visitor center. You’ll pass by the London Bridge Marina, where you can see houseboats, jet skis, and paddleboards — a reminder of Lake Havasu’s reputation as a boating paradise.

9. Complete the Loop and Reflect

As you return to the visitor center, take a moment to reflect on what you’ve experienced. You’ve walked a bridge that once spanned the Thames, stood where royalty once passed, and witnessed how human ambition can transplant history into an entirely new landscape.

Before leaving, consider visiting the museum inside the visitor center — it features artifacts from the original bridge, including a 17th-century gatepost and tools used during reconstruction. The exhibits are free and take about 15–20 minutes to explore.

Best Practices

1. Respect the Environment

Lake Havasu lies within the Mojave Desert, an ecosystem that is fragile and slow to recover from disturbance. Follow Leave No Trace principles:

• Carry out all trash, including food wrappers and bottles.
• Do not pick plants, disturb wildlife, or remove rocks or artifacts.
• Stay on marked trails to prevent erosion and protect native vegetation.
• Keep pets on a leash at all times. Dogs are allowed but must be under control.

Desert wildlife includes rattlesnakes, scorpions, and Gila monsters. While encounters are rare, always watch where you step, especially near rocks and brush. If you see a snake, give it space and do not attempt to move or provoke it.

2. Avoid Crowds and Peak Hours

The bridge is busiest between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on weekends and holidays. To enjoy a more peaceful experience:

• Hike on weekdays, especially Tuesday through Thursday.
• Arrive before 8 a.m. or after 5 p.m.
• Visit during the off-season (late fall to early spring) for the lowest crowds.

Weekend mornings are acceptable if you arrive early. The bridge is also less crowded during local school days and holidays like Memorial Day or Labor Day, when many visitors are elsewhere.

3. Combine Your Hike with Other Activities

The Lake Havasu area offers numerous complementary experiences. Consider extending your day with:

• Boat tour: Several companies offer 90-minute cruises under the bridge, providing a unique perspective from the water.
• Stand-up paddleboarding: Rent a board from the marina and paddle along the calm waters near the bridge.
• Desert hiking: The nearby McCulloch Canyon Trail (2.8 miles round trip) offers a more challenging desert hike with panoramic views of the lake.
• Historic district walk: Stroll through the Old Town district, where restored 1950s storefronts and murals depict the city’s founding era.

4. Photography Tips

The London Bridge is one of the most photographed landmarks in Arizona. To capture it well:

• Golden hour: Shoot 30–60 minutes after sunrise or before sunset for soft, warm light that highlights the stone texture.
• Reflection shots: Early morning stillness creates perfect mirror-like reflections on the water. Use a tripod for long exposures.
• Wide-angle lens: Essential for capturing the entire bridge and its surroundings in one frame.
• Low angle: Get close to the water’s edge and shoot upward to emphasize the bridge’s arches.
• Drone use: Drones are permitted in the area but must remain below 400 feet and avoid flying over crowds or boats. Check FAA regulations and local ordinances before flying.

5. Safety in the Desert

Even short hikes in the desert carry risks. Follow these safety rules:

• Hydrate before you start: Drink 16 oz of water 30 minutes before beginning your hike.
• Know the signs of heat illness: Dizziness, nausea, headache, and dry mouth are early symptoms. Stop immediately, find shade, and rehydrate.
• Never hike alone: Especially in remote areas of the desert. At minimum, tell someone your plans and expected return time.
• Carry a whistle: In case of emergency, a whistle can be heard farther than shouting.
• Check the weather: Flash floods can occur during monsoon season (July–September). Avoid the trail if thunderstorms are forecast.

6. Accessibility Considerations

The main loop trail is fully ADA-compliant. Paved surfaces, gentle slopes, and accessible restrooms make this hike suitable for wheelchairs, strollers, and mobility devices. However, some side paths and observation decks have gravel or slight inclines. Contact the visitor center in advance if you require specific accessibility accommodations.

Tools and Resources

1. Recommended Apps

• AllTrails: Search “London Bridge Lake Havasu” for user-submitted trail maps, photos, and recent condition reports. The free version provides sufficient detail for this hike.
• Google Maps: Use offline mode to download the area. Cellular service can be spotty near the river.
• Weather Underground: Provides hyperlocal forecasts for Lake Havasu City with hourly temperature and UV index updates.
• Red Cross First Aid App: Offers step-by-step guidance for heat exhaustion, dehydration, and snakebite response.

2. Official Websites

• London Bridge Visitor Center Official Site – Trail maps, hours, events, and historical background.
• Lake Havasu City Tourism – Brochures, guided tour schedules, and nearby attractions.
• Arizona State Parks – Information on nearby state parks and desert conservation efforts.

3. Printed Resources

While digital tools are convenient, consider picking up a free paper map at the visitor center. It includes:

• Trail distances and estimated times
• Points of interest (restrooms, benches, water stations)
• Wildlife sightings log (updated monthly)
• Local history timeline

Also available: a small guidebook titled “The London Bridge: From Thames to Havasu” — available for $5 at the gift shop. It includes rare photos and interviews with the original stonemasons.

4. Local Gear Shops

If you need last-minute supplies, these nearby stores offer quality gear:

• Desert Trail Outfitters – 1200 London Bridge Road. Offers hydration packs, sun hats, and desert-specific sunscreen.
• Arizona Hiking Supply Co. – 1800 E. Airport Way. Sells lightweight trekking poles and portable water filters.

Both shops are open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and offer free trail advice.

5. Volunteer and Educational Programs

For those interested in deeper engagement:

• Bridge Docent Program: Volunteer to lead guided walks on weekends. Training is provided. Contact the visitor center for applications.
• Desert Ecology Workshops: Monthly sessions on desert flora and fauna, held at the visitor center. Free for the public.
• Photography Walks: Led by local nature photographers. Held on the first Saturday of each month.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Family Hike — The Rodriguez Family

Every spring, the Rodriguez family from Phoenix visits Lake Havasu. Their 8-year-old daughter, Sofia, has a fascination with bridges. Last April, they completed the London Bridge hike as part of a “World Bridges” educational project.

They started at 7:30 a.m., brought a picnic lunch, and used a printable scavenger hunt sheet from the visitor center’s website. Sofia checked off items like “Find a cactus,” “Count the arches,” and “Spot a bird.”

“She remembered every detail,” said her father, Carlos. “She even drew the bridge in her journal and wrote a poem about the stones that traveled across the ocean.”

The family returned in October and added a boat tour. “It’s not just a hike,” Carlos says. “It’s a story.”

Example 2: The Solo Hiker — Maria Lopez

Maria, a 62-year-old retired teacher from Tucson, began hiking to cope with stress after her husband passed away. She discovered the London Bridge trail through a local hiking group.

She hikes every Wednesday morning, rain or shine. “It’s quiet,” she says. “I bring my thermos of tea and sit on the western bench. I watch the light change on the stone. It feels like time slows down.”

Maria now leads a small group of seniors on monthly walks. “You don’t need to be strong to be a hiker,” she says. “You just need to show up.”

Example 3: The Photographer — Jamal Carter

Jamal, a professional landscape photographer from California, traveled to Lake Havasu specifically to capture the bridge at dawn. He spent three days there in November, arriving before sunrise each morning.

His favorite shot — titled “Stone Across Time” — shows the bridge at first light, with mist rising from the river and the original London Bridge gatepost visible in the foreground. The image won first prize in the 2023 Arizona Nature Photography Contest.

“The bridge is a metaphor,” Jamal says. “It connects two worlds — past and present, east and west, stone and desert. Hiking it isn’t just walking. It’s witnessing history.”

Example 4: The International Visitor — The Tanaka Family

In 2022, the Tanaka family from Tokyo visited Lake Havasu as part of a U.S. road trip. They had read about the bridge in a travel magazine and were stunned to find a piece of London in the Arizona desert.

They hiked the trail at sunset, wearing traditional Japanese sandals for the experience. “It felt like walking through a dream,” said Mrs. Tanaka. “The stones are the same, but the sky is different.”

They left a small origami crane on one of the benches — a quiet tribute to the bridge’s journey.

FAQs

Is there an entrance fee to hike the London Bridge?

No. There is no fee to walk the bridge or the surrounding trails. Parking is free at the visitor center lot.

Can I bring my dog on the hike?

Yes. Dogs are allowed on leashes no longer than 6 feet. Owners must clean up after their pets. Water stations are available near the visitor center.

Are restrooms available along the trail?

Yes. Restrooms are located at the visitor center, near the Harbor View Overlook, and at the northern connector trailhead. All are ADA-accessible.

Is the bridge safe to walk on?

Yes. The pedestrian walkway is well-maintained and separated from vehicle traffic. The surface is smooth and stable. Avoid walking during high winds or after rain, as the stone can be slippery.

How long does it take to hike the bridge?

Most people complete the full loop in 45–90 minutes. If you stop for photos, rest, or exploration, allow 2 hours.

Can I hike at night?

While the trail is open until dusk, it is not lit. Hiking after dark is not recommended due to limited visibility and increased wildlife activity. The visitor center closes at 6 p.m. daily.

Is there a guided tour available?

Yes. Free guided walks are offered every Saturday at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. by volunteer docents. No reservation is required. Check the visitor center schedule for updates.

What should I do if I see a rattlesnake?

Stop, stay calm, and slowly back away. Do not attempt to move or provoke the snake. Most snakes will retreat if given space. Alert other hikers and notify the visitor center staff if the snake remains in a high-traffic area.

Are there food vendors on the trail?

No. There are no food vendors along the trail. Bring your own snacks and water. The visitor center gift shop sells bottled water, energy bars, and ice cream.

Can I kayak or paddleboard under the bridge?

Yes. The Colorado River is open to non-motorized watercraft. Launch points are available at the marina. Be aware of boat traffic and wear a life jacket.

Conclusion

The hike around Lake Havasu’s London Bridge is more than a walk — it’s a journey through time, geography, and human ingenuity. This 2.5-mile loop may lack the ruggedness of a mountain trail, but it offers something rarer: a tangible connection between two distant worlds, stitched together by stone and ambition.

As you walk beneath its arches, you’re not just observing a landmark — you’re walking on the same stones that once echoed with the footsteps of 18th-century Londoners. You’re standing where the Mojave Desert meets the Colorado River, where the past was moved, rebuilt, and reborn.

This hike requires no special skills, no extreme fitness, and no expensive gear. What it demands is presence — the willingness to pause, to look closely, and to appreciate the extraordinary in the ordinary.

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, a photographer, or simply someone seeking a quiet moment in the desert sun, the London Bridge hike welcomes you. It asks nothing but your footsteps — and in return, it gives you a story you won’t forget.

So lace up your shoes, fill your water bottle, and step onto the bridge. The stones are waiting.