Summer is the time to escape the desert heat. For those in the know, it’s a time to set sail to the sky island that is the Hualapai Mountains.

The tiptop of these scenic blue peaks tower nearly a mile over Kingman at 8,400 feet, but are only 12 miles out of town. Even just heading up to Hualapai Mountain Park, around 6,500 feet in elevation, gets you a full 10-15 degrees cooler than the desert floor. The park has tranquil and starry camp sites as well as teepees and cabins. There are plenty of shady trails, breathtaking views, and the area is teaming with wildlife, such as fox, deer, elk, and a variety of birds.

If you’re looking for a good excuse to make the trek in July, you're in for a treat! A premier motorcycle event takes the park over the weekend of July 29-30, 2017 – TrialGP Wagner Cup. At this world championship, the most technically skilled motorcycle riders in the world negotiate impossible terrain. Advance tickets will be for sale leading up to the event at the Kingman Visitor Center, located in the Powerhouse. Click here for more information on the Trials.