Charlie's Spring Loop

This is a hike to a spring that has water year round. The spring seeps out of the ground and runs in a small stream through some grasses that result from this water in an otherwise dry area. There are numerous cat tails and tamarisk. There is evidence of recent rains bringing down mud and gravel when the water ran quickly down the wash to the east. Park at an area across from the trailhead. There is room for a few cars before you would block off the entrance to this employee only area. From here, walk across the road and start down the trail that goes below the John Clark Memorial to a man who died here in June of 1915. There's an interpretive marker along the Valley of Fire Road designated SR 169. The hike continues down the wash for about 2.75 miles to the spring. Near the spring, there are some interesting falls to climb down (2nd class at most), and the sandstone geology is gorgeous. You can imagine filming a movie in this wash. Continuing down the wash from the spring which goes on for quite a distance, you come to a power line road that comes in from your right, goes down the wash, and then goes to the left and out of the wash. Take the left turn and hike to the top of the hill. Follow the power line road until you get to the next wash heading west, northwest. Follow this wash staying to the left at most junctions with side washes. Eventually, you'll approach a tall sandstone outcrop. You need to get north of this outcrop. You can either climb up and over and then north, or you can go north at the opportunity that looks best for you. Whatever route you follow, you are merely going cross country. There is no trail. Eventually, you come out on the Valley of Fire Highway near the east entrance and very close to Elephant Rock. Take the highway west to return to your car. On the way back, look at the Arrowhead Highway historic marker and read the interpretive marker for the John Clark story as you gaze across the wash and see the memorial with its white cross on top.