The Alabama Hills National Scenic Area is a striking landscape of rounded rock formations and eroded hills spread across approximately 30,000 acres in California. Managed by the Bureau of Land Management, this area not only boasts a rich cinematic history with over 400 movies filmed since 1920 but also offers a diverse range of recreational activities including hiking.

This stunning region, with its distinctive geological characteristics and diverse wildlife adapted to its harsh climate, provides a captivating outdoor experience for hikers and nature enthusiasts alike. As explorers traverse the trails, they will discover natural arches and windows that frame the rugged beauty of the distant landscape.

1 | Mobius Arch

• Trail Overview:

  • The Mobius Arch Loop Trail is a highlight within the Alabama Hills National Scenic Area, offering a short yet rewarding hike.

  • This 0.6-mile loop trail has a minimal elevation gain of 100 feet, welcoming hikers of varying abilities to enjoy the scenery.

• Getting There:

  • To begin the adventure, hikers should head to the end of Movie Flat Road, accessible via Movie Road from Hwy 395 in Lone Pine.

  • Once at the "Y" junction on Movie Road, take a right and look for the dirt parking area to find the trailhead.

• Trail Features:

  • As hikers embark on the trail, they can choose to start from either trailhead marker, located on both sides of the parking area.

  • The trail's star attraction is the Mobius Arch, a granite formation perfectly framing the Sierra Nevada, with Mount Whitney as a backdrop.

  • Along the path, visitors can also spot Lathe Arch and enjoy views of other rock formations.

• Best Time to Visit and Tips:

  • Early morning or late afternoon hikes are ideal for the most dramatic lighting on the arches.

  • No fees or permits are required, but bringing water, sunscreen, and a hat is advised due to the lack of shade and potential heat.

• Contact Information:

  • For more details, the Bureau of Land Management can be contacted at 760-872-5000 or via email at BLM_CA_Web_BI@blm.gov .

2 | Heart Arch

• Trail Overview:

  • Heart Arch is a distinctive feature in the Alabama Hills, easily visible from the Arch Loop Trail parking area.

  • It is one of the most accessible arches, providing a straightforward route for visitors.

• Hike Details:

  • The trail itself is a short 0.5-mile round trip, which is manageable for hikers of all skill levels.

  • Coordinates for the trailhead are 36°36’41.1″N 118°07’29.4″W, guiding explorers to the starting point.

• What to Expect:

  • The arch's unique heart shape is best viewed from the parking area, where the angle reveals its namesake form.

  • This trail is pet-friendly, so feel free to bring four-legged friends along, but they must be on a leash.

  • Visiting during spring or fall is recommended due to the moderate temperatures, making the hike more enjoyable.

  • There is no fee required to enjoy the Heart Arch or any other parts of the Alabama Hills National Scenic Area.

3 | Lathe Arch

• Trail Features and Navigation:

  • Lathe Arch presents itself as a smaller yet remarkable counterpart to the better-known Mobius Arch, situated just 20 feet back on the trail, offering a unique flat shape and a framed view of the iconic Mt. Whitney.

  • Hikers interested in exploring further can find numerous other arches accessible from the Arch Loop Trail, requiring desert hiking proficiency and navigational tools like a GPS, map, and compass.

• Photography and Best Visiting Times:

  • For those keen on capturing the beauty of Lathe Arch, the best time for photography is in the early morning when the light accentuates the mountain views and the arch's distinct features.

  • The UTM coordinates for Lathe Arch are provided for precise location tracking: LATITUDE: N 36°36.804, LONGITUDE: W 118°07.558, with an elevation of 4570 feet.

• Environmental Stewardship:

  • The Alabama Hills Recreation Area, which includes Lathe Arch, is meticulously maintained, showcasing an environment free of trash or graffiti, allowing for a tranquil experience amidst nature.

  • As part of the "Leave No Trace and Don't Crush the Brush" initiative, hikers are reminded to respect the natural landscape, ensuring that the area remains unspoiled for others to enjoy.

4 | Shark Tooth Arch

• Trail Overview:

  • Shark Tooth Arch, also referred to as Bear Claw Arch due to the distinctive shape of its opening, is a fascinating rock formation within the Alabama Hills Recreation Area.

  • This natural arch is relatively small, measuring approximately 2'6"W x 15"H, yet it provides an impressive sight against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada.

• Hiking Experience:

  • The hike to Shark Tooth Arch is a manageable 0.5-mile round trip, making it an enjoyable venture for those looking for a shorter trail.

  • Although the trail is considered moderately difficult due to rocky and uneven terrain, it rewards hikers with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and rock formations, including Mount Whitney.

• Directions and Details:

  • To reach the trailhead, adventurers should use the coordinates 36°36'41.1"N 118°07'29.4"W, with the trail being approximately 5 miles west of Lone Pine.

  • The UTM coordinates for precise navigation are N 36°36.872, W 118°07.302, at an elevation of 4664 feet.

  • Access to the trail is from the Movie Flat Road, a dirt road that is passable for most vehicles.

5 | Eye of the Alabama Hills

• Trail Overview:

  • Located in Lone Pine, California, the Eye of the Alabama Hills is a captivating 2.5-mile loop trail that promises moderate difficulty and an engaging hiking experience.

  • This trail is a part of the larger Alabama Hills National Scenic Area, renowned for its unique rock formations and natural beauty.

• What to Expect on the Trail:

  • Hikers will encounter the Eye of the Alabama Hills formation, a natural arch that offers exceptional photographic opportunities.

  • The surrounding rocks provide panoramic views of the Alabama Hills and the Sierra Mountains, enhancing the hiking experience.

  • Along the route, a diverse array of plant and animal life can be observed, adding to the trail's allure.

• Trail Access and Information:

  • The trail remains open from April to October, which is considered the best time to visit due to favorable weather conditions.

  • No permits or fees are required, making it an accessible option for outdoor enthusiasts.

  • For safety, the trail may be closed during adverse weather or when conditions are deemed unsafe for hikers.

  • Easy parking is available for the 0.4-mile hike to the Eye of the Alabama Hills Arch, and a free map along with more information can be found on the BLM website.

  • The trail supports multiple uses, including hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, catering to a wide range of recreational activities.

6 | Nightmare Rock

• Location and Appearance:

  • Nightmare Rock stands out as a prominent feature in the Alabama Hills, located 4 miles west of Lone Pine on the north side of Whitney Portal Road.

  • This unusual boulder is transformed into a striking piece of art, depicting a demonic face with a bold KISS-style makeup design on one eye, complete with razor-sharp teeth and a slobbery tongue, giving it a ghoulish appearance.

• Climbing and Viewing:

  • For those interested in a closer look or a bit of climbing, Nightmare Rock offers the opportunity to scale its surface and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

  • Visitors can find this quirky landmark by taking a small turnoff on the right-hand side if heading towards the mountain, approximately 1-2 miles in on Whitney Portal Road.

• Artistic Origins:

  • The creation of Nightmare Rock is credited to local artists who saw potential in a misshapen boulder and decided to give it a terrifying makeover.

  • It has become a unique point of interest within the Alabama Hills and is occasionally refreshed with a new coat of paint to maintain its nightmarish visage.

7 | Movie Road

• Iconic Landmarks and Filming Heritage:

  • The Whitney Porthole is a highly iconic feature within the Alabama Hills, celebrated in various forms of media including album covers and magazines.

  • Alabama Hills' Movie Road itself is steeped in cinematic history, having provided the backdrop for over 400 movies, with old Hollywood cowboy films being a notable genre.

  • The area's connection to the silver screen extends to modern blockbusters such as "Iron Man," "Django Unchained," and "Gladiator," making it a significant location for movie enthusiasts.

• Outdoor Activities and Accessibility:

  • Beyond its Hollywood allure, Movie Road offers a gateway to a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, biking, rock climbing, and stargazing, catering to a wide range of interests and skill levels.

  • The Arch Trail Loop, accessible from Movie Road, is a family-friendly option that provides a beautiful loop trail off the main road, welcoming visitors to explore the natural arches and stunning landscapes.

• Visitor Information and Tips:

  • To visit, take Whitney Portal Road west from Lone Pine and turn right onto Movie Flat Road, following existing roads and trails.

  • The Alabama Hills National Scenic Area, managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), offers free access to the public, with dispersed camping allowed under the condition that visitors follow the rules and do not stay for more than 14 days.

  • Best visited in spring or fall when temperatures are moderate, the area provides exceptional lighting for photography at sunrise and sunset.

  • Visitors should be prepared with necessary supplies as services and cell reception are limited, and a car is essential for exploring the vast area.