Ridgecrest

Jawbone Canyon Road provides a leisurely and scenic drive across a quickly changing landscape from the hot Mojave high desert to the cool Piute Mountains. Along the way, you can get close to an impressively massive wind turbine farm, pass across the beautiful Kelso Valley, and then feel the temperature drop as you climb 4500 feet into the serene tall pines of the Sequoia National Forest.

Located in the rugged El Paso Mountains within Red Rock Canyon State Park, Last Chance Canyon is a premier offroad destination known for its steep canyon walls, technical rock obstacles, and rich history. Just a few hours from Los Angeles, this challenging trail is a favorite among rock crawlers and adventure seekers looking to test their skills on its demanding terrain.

Beyond its offroading appeal, Last Chance Canyon is steeped in history. The surrounding region was once a hotspot for gold prospectors and miners, with remnants of the Dutch Cleanser Mine and the legendary Bonanza area still standing as a testament to California’s mining past. Notable pioneers like Walter Bickel and William “Burro” Schmidt left a lasting impact on the area, with Burro Schmidt’s famous tunnel still attracting curious explorers today.

Whether you're drawn by the thrill of the drive—including the infamous V-Notch obstacle—or the allure of the Old West, Last Chance Canyon offers an unforgettable journey through time and terrain. If you're looking for an epic offroad adventure near Los Angeles, this historic and scenic trail is your chance to experience the wild spirit of the California desert.

Nestled within the far reaches of California's Sequoia National Forest, McIver's Jeep Road leads to a namesake cabin, a historic site popular among offroad enthusiasts and hikers alike. Constructed in 1938 by miner Murdo George McIver, the cabin was relocated from Sand Canyon to its current location near McIver's Spring, close to his mining claim. Today, it serves as a shelter for Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) hikers and a destination for offroad adventurers. Tackling this trail requires traveling through diverse terrains, including rolling hills with scrub brush and sandy washes, and features narrow sections that require careful navigation.

With only a few hours' drive north of Los Angeles, spectacular canyons can be observed in the El Paso Mountains. Previously home to the Kawaiisu Indians, the El Paso Mountains contain much of their heritage to this day. Later on, mining became the mainstay. Many mining camps of different minerals are spread across this mountain range. The Dutch Cleanser Mines, Bickel Camp, Cudahy Camp, Burro Schmidt Tunnel, Holland Camp, and Holly Ash Mine are just a few of the attractions. Trail 86B is part of the State Motorized Trail System Route #6 and is near Cudahy Camp. Cudahy Camp is an interesting mining camp in that it has a door on the side of the mountain that leads to a single room, and nonindigenous pine trees can be found near the building foundations. So, whether you're overlanding or just taking your 4X4 out for quick access to the many trails within the Red Rock State Park system, Trail 86B is a great choice.

Located in Red Rock Canyon State Park, the Black Rock Canyon offroad trail takes you through striking badlands of dried mud and rugged, reddish-black lava rock canyons—an experience you won't forget. The wheeling is adventurous, but the otherworldly landscape offers a quiet sense of inspiration. Once you conquer its namesake obstacle, "Black Rock," a deep sense of accomplishment will set in, leaving you eager to push forward and carve new trails.

In the high Mohave Desert near Ridgecrest, California, is one of the desert's most unusual geologic wonders. The Trona Pinnacles are a concentration of large vertical spires rising up to 140 feet from the Searles Dry Lake base bed. The site has more than 500 spires, from short and squat to tall and thin, and are composed primarily of calcium carbonate (tufa) formed underwater when the area was a lake 100,000 years ago. The Pinnacles are recognizable to many because they have been used as a filming location for more than a dozen hit movies, including Planet of the Apes and Star Trek. This 14-square-mile area was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1968, and visitors are free to drive through, hike, and camp amongst the towers. Come for the main attraction, or drive the hundreds of nearby four-wheel drive roads, or better yet, come and do both!

Red Rock Canyon State Park in California is a stunning desert landscape in the Mojave Desert. It is known for its dramatic red and tan sandstone cliffs, rugged rock formations, and scenic desert vistas. Iron Canyon is one of several dirt roads traversing this geologically rich park, offering visitors a glimpse into ancient landscapes shaped by millions of years of erosion. If traveling the 14 Freeway during sunrise or sunset, this short trail is sure to reward you with a mesmerizing experience as the canyon’s colors intensify, creating an otherworldly atmosphere.

Opal Trail is aptly named as at the end of the trail are two famous opal mines, Nowak's Opal Mine and Barnett's Opals. The very light-colored terrain in this canyon consists of volcanic ash. It has yielded many opals over the years. Back in the day, Barnett's Opals charged $2 a head for a day pass to mine, and you could keep whatever you found. Currently, rock collecting is not allowed within the Red Rock Canyon State Park. It is said that among the Barnetts' luminous treasures found is the "Mojave Flame," an opal that glows like coal in a barbecue pit. In 1975, the Opal Miners Association valued the stone at over $50,000. All that remains now are dilapidated buildings and the equipment used to mine.

Once a common household staple, Old Dutch Cleanser was a familiar sight in homes and stores across America. Known for its powerful scrubbing ability, this pumicite-based cleaner was used on everything from sinks and stoves to bathtubs. Between 1923 and 1947, the Old Dutch Cleanser Mine produced over 120,000 tons of the abrasive powder that made the brand so popular.

Today, visiting the mine on an overlanding trip feels like stepping back in time—especially considering the mysterious circumstances under which its operators seemed to vanish overnight. As you wind your way up the road to the site, you’ll be struck by just how much pumicite still blankets the area. For those feeling adventurous, the mine’s shafts remain accessible, offering a rare chance to explore the tunnels and see remnants of the original materials and tools used in the mining process.

Coming into the southern end of Red Rock Canyon State Park is a lesser-used trail labeled EP 18. This bumpy 2-track is full of incredible views both down the canyon and into the park, and across its surrounding hills. As you ascend the canyon, the trail is relatively easy, with a few ruts to slow you down. Once you are past the mine, the trail turns into a shelf road cut into the side of the hills. There is minimal passing room, but full-width vehicles will fit just fine. The most challenging part of the trail comes about halfway through when the road suddenly turns down one of the hills and presents a steep hill peppered with loose, softball-sized rocks. 4WD is required, and a locker may help, especially if you are coming uphill. After this hill, you will traverse a few more mounds before reaching its terminus at Trail 86B.

There is no camping along this trail despite a small portion of the southern end lying on BLM land. The only camping allowed within Red Rock Canyon State Park is the developed Ricardo Campground across CA-14 near the visitors center.

Winding through the El Paso Mountains near Ridgecrest, California, The Narrows offroad trail offers a thrilling desert adventure. Following the historic Goler Gulch, a once-famous mining route from the 1893 boom, this trail lives up to its name with a dramatically tight passage through rugged, volcanic-formed terrain, cementing its status as a "must-do" for offroad enthusiasts.

Combine the "The Narrows" with other trails to connect to the famous Burro Schmidt Tunnel, Bickel Camp, or through Hobbs Wash on EP 15 as you make your way to the iconic Trona Pinnacles. Die-hard rock crawlers with stamina can even make a route to include Last Chance Canyon! The possibilities with this one make it a great choice to plan a trip around.

With only a 2-hour drive north of Los Angeles, spectacular canyons can be observed in the El Paso Mountains. Previously home to the Kawaiisu Indians, the El Paso Mountains contain much of their heritage today. Later on, mining became the mainstay. Many mining camps of different minerals are spread across this mountain range. The Dutch Cleanser Mines, Bickel Camp, Cudahy Camp, Burro Schmidt Tunnel, Holland Camp, and Holly Ash Mine are just a few of the attractions. So, whether you're overlanding or just taking your 4X4 out for quick access to the many trails within the Red Rock State Park system, Hagen Canyon Trail is a great choice to see the essence of the El Paso Mountains.

Horse Canyon SC65 is the South Searles Subregion of the Burea of Land Management (BLM) Ridgecrest Office.   The road is straight through, passing through the Kaivah Wilderness, eventually ending at the border of the Sequoia National Forest, where it continues as Forest Service road 27S11. Combined with 27S11, this Horse Canyon is used to reach the trailhead of 36E52 to then reach McIver’s Cabin. Numerous OHV trails intersect over Horse Canyon's 11-mile length, and the eight staging/camping areas it passes attest to its convenience to explore the many trails in the area.

SC65 is almost entirely a soft, sandy, wide trail. A beginning offroader would enjoy this easy trail and experience the surrounding desert using a high clearance 4WD vehicle.

Eight set-aside camping areas can be found over its length, all with existing rock fire rings. These sites can be used for camping when meeting the BLM Camping Guidelines. During high fire danger, campfires may be restricted, and if planning to camp here, one should review the current BLM Campfire Restrictions and have a Campfire Permit.

EP 15 provides a major east-west path across the El Paso Mountains, connecting Highway 14 and Highway 395. It is also the main gateway to other attractions, such as Bickel Camp and the Burro Schmidt Tunnel.

The eastern and western sides are drastically different. On the western side, the trail is rather tame and has the Colorado Camp as a roadside attraction. The eastern side will leave you feeling remote, and the road is more adventurous. Hobbs Wash is a very unique canyon with several tight S-turns where extra-long wheelbase vehicles may struggle.

Pre-disturbed campsites can be found, but they are few and far between. You can also camp at the Colorado Camp, near where Mesquite Canyon intersects.

Airing down is recommended as both the east and west sides will be bumpy and washboarded. There are a couple of steep entry points as it crosses several washes, which may require 4-low gearing for some. It is suitable for all high-clearance vehicles.

In the southern Scodie Mountains, a beautiful narrow canyon guides SC37 as it rises 1300 feet to the narrow mountain ridge of Wyleys Knob and an intersection with the Pacific Crest Trail. The ridge provides a perfect lunch spot while enjoying impressive views of the surrounding mountains and the distant Kiavah Wilderness.   

SC37  is reached via Frog Creek SC47 and SC50. A BLM trail marker at the western start of the trail indicates this trail has a "Difficult" rating. Obstacles on the west and east side of the Wyle Knob ridge confirm this rating. The entire trail requires a high clearance 4x4 to manage a three-foot sandstone ledge on the west side of the trail and a steep descent over rough, rocky, water-damaged terrain on the eastern half. Only an experienced driver should attempt this trail.

At the northern end of the trail is Bureau of Land Management prepared primitive campsite with a rock fire ring that can be used when meeting BLM Camping Guidelines. During high fire danger, campfires may be restricted, and if planning to camp here, one should review the current BLM Campfire Restrictions and have a Campfire Permit.

South of the Scodie Mountains, starting from the paved Kelso Valley Road, in a narrow gap along the soft sandy bottom of Butterbredt Canyon, sits Butterbredt Canyon Road (SC123). A healthy green joshua tree forest surrounds the road. The canyon's namesake, Butterbredt Springs, is teeming with life supported by the active spring and is near the southeastern end of the road, near its end at the intersection with Jawbone Canyon Road.  Surprisingly, for its length, this straight-through road has only a single intersecting road but does have several hiking trails beginning from the road. 

This is an easy trail over a maintained road, consisting almost entirely of soft, deep sand that requires a 4-wheel drive vehicle.

The only dispersed camping site is a BLM-provided primitive site near Butterbredt Spring. The large dispersed campsite with rock fire rings can be enjoyed when meeting BLM Camping Guidelines. During high fire danger, campfires may be restricted, and if planning to camp here, one should review the current BLM Campfire Restrictions and have a Campfire Permit.

Cows Heaven Canyon Road (SC51) provides a corridor through the beautiful untouched hills of the Kiavah Wilderness from the Mojave Desert to the Sequoia National Forest. The road moves through the transition zone between the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the Mojave Desert, where you'll find an unusual mix of plants and animals, including creosote bush, Joshua trees, burro bush, and shadscale. This is an up-and-back trail with convenient access from Highway 14.

This is an easy trail, consisting almost entirely of packed sand. It requires only a two-wheel drive but still requires high clearance.

Vehicles can travel up the Wilderness Corridor to the end, where dispersed camping is allowed along the road. To minimize impacts, previously used or predisturbed sites should be used. Vehicles must park on the shoulder of the road in previously used locations as well. The Wilderness boundary is 30 feet from the road's centerline, so no motorized vehicles can travel further from the road even if a disturbed area extends past this boundary line. Dispersed camping is limited but can be enjoyed when meeting BLM Camping Guidelines. During high fire danger, campfires may be restricted, and if planning to camp here, one should review the current BLM Campfire Restrictions and have a Campfire Permit.

Cutting across the rugged eastern foothills of Red Mountain, RM 199 offers beautiful scenery, picturesque campsites, mining artifacts, and a tough offroad driving challenge. A spring drive after recent rains may bestow colorful flower-carpeted hillsides. Deep vertical mine shafts, now safely shuttered, can be inspected on either side road.

Dispersed camping and lunch spots are plentiful along the trail, with several pre-disturbed sites or simply scenic spots to enjoy lunch and the views. The trail ends near the Cascade Placer Tungsten Mine, whose massive silted tailings pond is now a limited-use site for camping.

The trail is rough, with one section being a steep 20-degree incline with loose rock and an intimidating 90-degree turn at its top with steep drop-offs on either side. At the top of the incline, the trail cannot be seen over the vehicle's hood. A spotter is required to keep the tires on the trail safely. A four-wheel drive high clearance vehicle is required for this trail, and a transmission with four-low may be necessary to climb the slippery incline.

SC175 is an excellent introduction to the trails of the Jawbone Canyon OHV Area. It conveniently starts and ends near Highway 14 with a must-stop at the Jose Bishop Gravesite and Claim about ½ way along the trail.  

The road is wide and well maintained and an easy drive for new offroaders, but it still requires a high clearance 4x4 to manage the soft sand and occasionally exposed rocks.     

There are only a few predisturbed sites for dispersed camping and they can be enjoyed when meeting the BLM Camping Guidelines. BLM provides better camping at many sites along Jawbone Canyon Road. During high fire danger, campfires may be restricted, and if planning to camp here, one should review the current BLM Campfire Restrictions and have a Campfire Permit.

Starting on the desert floor, Bird Spring Canyon Road passes through Bird Spring Pass, gradually rising and falling about 2,000 feet.   It skirts the southern edge of the Kiavah Wilderness between the tall peaks of the Scodie Mountains, and the Pacific Crest Trail crosses about five miles from the western end, where a watering station is set up for the hikers.

The road is wide and well maintained and an easy drive for new offroaders, but it still requires a high clearance 4x4 to manage the soft sand and occasionally exposed rocks. Descending on the western end follows a series of switchbacks, which may be intimidating, but these are wide enough for ascending vehicles to pull aside and allow passage.     

The eastern portion of the trail has a few primitive campsites set up by the BLM, which are easily identified by posted signs noting a 15-mile speed limit when campers are present. Camping there or at suitable dispersed sites can be enjoyed when meeting the BLM Camping Guidelines. During high fire danger, campfires may be restricted, and if planning to camp here, one should review the current BLM Campfire Restrictions and have a Campfire Permit.

Old Railroad follows a long-abandoned railroad berm. Red Mountain, to the north, provides a distant landmark. A springtime drive along Old Railroad may have expanses of colorful desert blooms such as the Mojave Yellow Purslane flower. The trail passes through a tortoise-protection area where signs remind drivers to avoid tortoises crossing the road. The railroad berm provides a narrow one-way road that can rise five feet above the desert floor, but its gently sloping sides allow a comfortable escape. The road is designated at its south end as FP5155 for the BLM Fremont Peak sub-region but later changes designation to RM for the BLM Red Mountain sub-region. There are many crossing trails that invite exploration leading to hundreds of square miles of BLM land to the east.

The drive is easy with its hard pack sandy soil, but still requires a high clearance vehicle to manage the deep dips. There are washouts across the road, but these are clearly marked, and bypasses are available.

Dispersed camping can be had anywhere along the route when following BLM camping guidelines that only pre-disturbed sites be used, of which many can be found over the trail's length.

Following the southern edge of the Golden Valley Wilderness, the highlight of this trail are the Steam Wells Petroglyphs. The trailhead to the Steam Wells Petroglyphs is located just four miles down the road. A 0.7-mile hike from the road into the wilderness brings you to ancient swirls and shapes carved into the rock's surface by the Kawaiisu people. This rock art is estimated to have been carved up to 2000 years ago.

The trail ends at a gate declaring private property, but several other connecting trails exist to explore along its length.

Dispersed camping is available anywhere along this BLM trail, with particularly lovely sites near the Brown's Ranch.

The trail has no obstacles and is easy enough for a two-wheel drive vehicle.

EP 11 is one of the more adventurous trails in the El Paso Mountain area, offering a mix of steep climbs, technical obstacles, and fantastic scenery. The western section features several short but intense hill climbs, where you'll find yourself looking straight up or down as you navigate the rugged terrain. From there, the trail presents optional rock challenges before transitioning into the Mormon Flat area, where narrow, rocky shelf roads require patient driving. Low-range gearing and high clearance are highly recommended for most of the route.

Passengers will appreciate the ever-changing landscape, which ranges from sandy washes to an arch and then to higher-elevation flats and eventually leads into tight canyon sections with dramatic twists and turns.

For those looking to extend their adventure, a few pre-disturbed campsites are available along the route, offering a scenic place to stay under the stars.

This straight-through narrow trail rises 1300 feet following a narrow canyon to reach the 6000-foot overlook at Wyleys Knob. Once there, you will be treated to impressive mountains and desert floor views.  In the canyon, water collected from the surrounding hills supports dense groves of joshua trees. A striking feature found about one mile into the trail is a massive boulder stack precariously balanced, looking much like a mousetrap needing only the slightest nudge to fall on the trail. 

SC69 is almost entirely a soft, sandy, easy trail, with the northern end being the most challenging, requiring a 0.2 mile-long climb on deep soft sand exceeding a 20-degree incline. This trail is designated by BLM as “Difficult,” requiring an experienced driver in a high clearance 4WD vehicle with 4-low and a running start to make it up the last steep section of the soft sandy trail.

The only suitable dispersed camping location on this narrow canyon road is near the mousetrap boulder stack. Dispersed camping is allowed when meeting the BLM Camping Guidelines. During high fire danger, campfires may be restricted, and if planning to camp here, one should review the current BLM Campfire Restrictions and have a Campfire Permit.

Horse Mountain is often used to access the trailhead for Forest Service road 36E52 to McIver's Cabin. A narrow ledge road winds its way up the side of the mountain with often no room for vehicles to pass. Once at the top, there is the signed trailhead for Forest Service road 36E52.

Some excellent dispersed campsites can also be found when reaching the top of the mountain. Dispersed camping here requires following National Forest Dispersed Camping Rules. Campfires are only seasonally allowed and are generally banned during the summer months beginning in May. When planning to camp, one should first determine if campfires are allowed, meet the required Campfire Safety Rules, and have a valid National Forest Campfire Permit. The best way to determine the campfire restrictions is to call the Kern River Ranger District Ranger Station at (760) 376-3781.

Running north to south through the rugged El Paso Mountains, Mesquite Canyon offers a stunning geological tour of the region. Starting at the northern end, the trail skirts the El Paso Mountain Wilderness Area and Black Mountain, providing excellent views of the desert landscape. As you travel south, the scenery shifts to sculpted sandstone formations in shades of pink and red, creating a striking contrast against the rugged terrain. Toward the southern end, the route opens up to Koehn Lake, a vast dry lakebed shimmering white with mineral-rich salts.

This is a long drive with rough terrain consisting of eroded dirt paths, embedded rocks, and stretches of hardened lava rock. Airing down your tires and having a high-clearance vehicle is strongly recommended. Although the road is rough, there are no major concerns in dry weather. About midway through, a shaded picnic area with a natural spring provides a perfect spot to pause and stretch your legs before continuing.

Due to the uneven terrain, camping options are limited along the route. Less-than-ideal spots are located at the northern and southern ends and offer no shade or privacy. The best spot is located along the southern end, just below an old mine shaft, but it is right on the trail.

For those seeking a remote and scenic offroad adventure, Mesquite Canyon delivers an unforgettable ride through California’s interesting and geologically diverse landscapes.

Frog Creek Road (SC47) rambles over a flat, high desert floor at a 5200-foot elevation just south of the Scodie Mountains. A spring drive through here will treat visitors with hills covered in yellow desert flowers and groves of healthy joshua tree. This straight-through trail has several intersecting driving and hiking trails. The road begins at the intersection with Bird Spring Road and ends at the paved Kelso Valley Road. The Pacific Crest Trail intersects Frog Creek Road at about its halfway point.

Frog Creek Road is almost entirely a soft sandy trail with short sections of exposed rock. A beginning offroader would enjoy this easy trail using a high clearance 4WD vehicle.

Suitable spots for dispersed camping spots with existing rock fire rings can be found along this route and enjoyed when meeting the BLM Camping Guidelines. During high fire danger, campfires may be restricted, and if planning to camp here, one should review the Campfire Restrictions and have a Campfire Permit.

Redrock Inyokern Road runs north-south and connects Inyokern, California, with Red Rock Canyon State Park. It travels directly next to the El Paso Mountains Wilderness Area for a third of the distance. A few dispersed campsites can be found on the BLM portions of the trail but are far and wide throughout its 18-mile length. The road is maintained, but embedded rock will poke up from the dirt surface when you least expect it. However, it is suitable for any vehicle in dry conditions.

The El Paso Mountain Wilderness area has a rich mining history, particularly from the early 1900s, when miners built stone cisterns to collect and store water for operations, livestock, or personal use. You will see a few of them as you drive the road.

The drive to the tunnel is suitable for any vehicle. As you gain elevation, the dilapidated cabin stands with plenty of graffiti. Continuing around the hill, you will find a large parking area that can hold a dozen vehicles. The tunnel entrance is clearly visible, although if you are of standard height, you will need to hunch down to enter. One small dispersed campsite is at the start on the very northwest end of the trail.

After visiting the tunnel, you can continue your route on the steep and narrow EP 103, which offers outstanding 360-degree views, or return the way you came to connect to many other trail options.

But who was William "Burro" Schmidt"?

William "Burro" Schmidt spent 33 years single-handedly digging a tunnel through Copper Mountain, claiming it was a "shortcut." Using hand tools, explosives, and a wheelbarrow, he removed debris, eventually installing ore car rails. His obsession drove him to complete the tunnel, but he never transported ore through it despite uncovering rich veins of minerals.

Originally from Rhode Island, Schmidt moved to the desert for health reasons and supported himself as a ranch hand while working on the tunnel. After his death in 1954, his partner, Mike Lee, continued giving tours until 1963.

Evelyn Tonie Seger later acquired the property, living in Schmidt's cabin until her death in 2003. A strong-willed woman, she endured hardships, including a violent land dispute.

Today, visitors can explore the tunnel at their own risk. A flashlight is recommended, as the passage is dark and carries a faint stench reminiscent of a stale bar. The tunnel opens to a scenic overlook of Saltdale, making the trek worthwhile.

The Bonanza Trail is a scenic and rugged 4WD route that winds through the historic mining region of the El Paso Mountains. This remote trail takes adventurers through a landscape rich with stories of gold prospectors, pioneer settlers, and mining camps that thrived during the late 1800s and early 1900s.

As you navigate the rocky and sandy terrain, you'll pass historic sites that provide a glimpse into the area's past. The Bonanza Gulch Post Office is believed to have been built in the 1930s and once served the local mining community. Further along, interpretive signs highlight the experiences of gold seekers who hurried through on their way to the Mother Lode in the Sierra Nevada, only to return seeking their fortunes in these hills. Evidence of their persistence can still be seen in abandoned tunnels, weathered structures, and scattered mining remnants. A much more advanced and abandoned commercial mine is on the far western end, at the border of Red Rock Canyon State Park.

An abundance of dispersed camping can be found on the higher elevations out of the wash, and one can stay at any of the remaining structures along the washy area—just use the occupied signs that vary by building. Use at your own risk.

As a side of history, at one time, these cabins were officially adopted via the BLM Adopt-A-Cabin program. An older document from the BLM describes the program as: "It was a volunteer partnership arrangement administered by the Ridgecrest Field Office from the late 1980s to 2005. It operated under the ambitious but ultimately untenable goal of saving historical-period mining cabins in the region, largely for recreational reuse. Under the auspices of the program, several mining cabins in the Study Area were renovated, including the Beveridge Ridge Cabin in Inyo County. Inarguably, the work under the program prevented the collapse of several buildings. However, concerns over the lack of collection of baseline condition data prior to initiating work and the absence of involvement of BLM cultural resource managers brought an end to the program."

Sage Canyon Road is an out-and-back trail guided by the smooth meandering of the shallow canyon walls, through a corridor into the Kiavah Wilderness, and eventually reaching into the Sequoia National Forest. Several springs feed a small creek that runs through the canyon center, and it's no surprise the canyon supports a medley of plant and animal life. A burgeoning joshua tree forest is taking hold here, along with the namesake Sage Bush, whose aroma fills the canyon.  Along its length are a few intersecting roads and several established hiking trails.   

This easy trail consists almost entirely of hard-packed sand that can be driven in a two-wheel drive high clearance vehicle.

A BLM-provided primitive campsite large enough for several vehicles is next to the start of the trail. Vehicles can travel up the Wilderness Corridor to the end, where dispersed camping is allowed along the road. To minimize impacts, previously used or predisturbed sites should be used. Vehicles must park on the shoulder of the road in previously used locations as well. The Wilderness boundary is 30 feet from the road's centerline, so no motorized vehicles can travel further from the road even if a disturbed area extends past this boundary line. Dispersed camping can be enjoyed when meeting BLM Camping Guidelines. During high fire danger, campfires may be restricted, and if planning to camp here, one should review the current BLM Campfire Restrictions and have a Campfire Permit.

In the southern Scodie Mountains, the short SC50 provides a convenient connection from Frog Creek SC47 to the beginning of SC37.     

The trail is well-marked with BLM trail markers.  The sandy trail is one vehicle wide with no obstacles and rises on a 6% grade, making it easy for beginning offroad drivers.

Due to the trail's steepness, there are no suitable campsites.  

Boundary Road travels through the Stoddard OHV area and connects Highway 395 with Randsburg Wash Road. It is also a terminus point for the famed Trona Pinnacles Road. There are no notable obstacles, but airing down and having 4-low gears is recommended. Be advised that fast-moving motorcycles and side-by-sides are all over the place, and their trails often cross paths with the major roads.

It does provide unique scenery, with massive sandstone boulders along most of the route, some reaching almost monolithic proportions. This scenery provides an excellent backdrop for camping, and there are plenty of locations along the route where you can set up for the night. All camping available is dispersed, so no amenities are offered.

After a day of exploring the BLM Red Mountain subregion, RM 98 is an easy straight return to paved roads. The flat hardpacked road is suitable for 2-wheel drive vehicles. Dispersed camping is permitted anywhere along the trail.

SC99 travels northwest over a well-maintained, wide, sandy road toward the very flat desert towards Pinion Mountain.

The road is wide and well maintained and an easy drive for new offroaders, but it still requires a high clearance 4x4 to manage the soft sand and occasionally exposed rocks.      

BLM has prepared primitive campsites at the chosen locations, easily identified by posted signs noting a 15-mile speed limit when campers are present. Camping there or at suitable dispersed sites on BLM land can be enjoyed when meeting the BLM Camping Guidelines. During high fire danger, campfires may be restricted, and if planning to camp here, one should review the current BLM Campfire Restrictions and have a Campfire Permit.

High in the southern Scodie Mountains, this short connecting trail straddles a 6,000-foot high ridge to provide exhilarating views across Bird Spring Canyon out to the Kaivah Wilderness and 2,800 feet below to the Mojave desert floor. Rising high above the eastern end of the trail is a short hiking trail to Wyleys Knob and its communication towers. The Pacific Crest Trail hugs close to the northern side of the road and intersects at one point.

SC34 itself is an easy trail, but reaching it requires traveling up the sides of the steep ridge over the very challenging trails SC37 or SC69.

Tucked up against a rock jumble that provides wind shelter is the only location suitable for dispersed camping. Dispersed camping can be enjoyed in the Scodie Subregion when meeting the BLM Camping Guidelines. During high fire danger, campfires may be restricted, and if planning to camp here, one should review the current BLM Campfire Restrictions and have a Campfire Permit.

Sierra View Road is almost entirely within Red Rock Canyon State Park, with the eastern quarter in the Bureau of Land Management area. If it has not been recently maintained, the road is washboard and rough but suitable for any high-clearance vehicle. This is a 5.5-mile connector to the Dutch Cleanser Mine, EP 15, and 86B. Dispersed camping is prohibited within the State Park, and suitable sites can't be found in the Bureau of Land Management portion.

EP 103 offers an adventurous backway to or from the Burro Schmidt Tunnel, featuring a thrilling drive and expansive views. The trail continuously rises and falls, with steep sections requiring 4-Low gearing for both climbing traction and controlled descents. It can be driven in either direction but is best suited for vehicles equipped with 4-Low.

Along the route, look for old mining shacks and remnants of the area's boom years. However, no pre-existing campsites are available along this trail.

Bird Spring Road is part of the Bureau of Land Management's Scodie Subregion and is near the southernmost foothills of the Scodie Mountains. This straight-through road flows southeast over a well-maintained, wide, sandy road on this flat, high desert connecting several other roads and hiking trails. Its termination at LA Aqueduct Road provides a quick exit towards Highway 14.

The road is wide and well maintained and an easy drive for new offroaders, but it still requires a high clearance 4x4 to manage the soft sand and occasionally exposed rocks.      

BLM has prepared primitive campsites at the premium locations, easily identified by posted signs noting a 15-mile speed limit when campers are present. Camping there or at suitable dispersed sites on BLM land can be enjoyed when meeting the BLM Camping Guidelines. During high fire danger, campfires may be restricted, and if planning to camp here, one should review the current BLM Campfire Restrictions and have a Campfire Permit.

Red Buttes is numbered 86A and resides entirely within Red Rock Canyon State Park. It splits two red buttes and connects Last Chance Canyon with Pleasant Valley Road, and you can drive it in either direction. Visually, it contrasts reddish-brown lava rock against whitish volcanic tuff and mixes, and, from start to finish, will give you something to look at. Volcanic bombs (balls) line the trail in sections twice the size of the vehicles most likely driving this trail. There is plenty of evidence to suggest that this area was active with mining, and towards the eastern end, there are numerous old car carcasses and mining equipment.

The road is non-technical and suitable for any high-clearance vehicle. Dispersed camping is prohibited within the State Park.

Residing within Red Rock Canyon State Park and the El Paso Mountains, Pleasant Valley Road drives along the eastern side of Red Buttes. It connects Last Chance Canyon with the network roads you can take on your way to the Burro Schmidt Tunnel or Camp Bickel. While driving this road, the mountains vividly show reds, pinks, tans, and browns. In addition, the area's vegetation is a little more green—all providing stunning views. The drive is comparatively gentle and suitable for any high clearance vehicle. Be advised that the road crosses a wash and might become impassable during a rain event. There is no camping is along this trail.

EP 30 is the trail that Bickel Camp resides on, and it's worth the stop. The Camp itself may or may not be open the day you arrive, but if not, you can look in from outside the gate and look at the historical oddities. EP 30 is an easy, hard-packed sand road with occasional ruts and washboard, suitable for any high clearance vehicle. Dispersed camping can be found along the eastern half. At the Camp, there are two picnic tables set up and shade.

Who was Walt Bickel, and Why is this Camp Important?

Walt Bickel's Camp in Last Chance Canyon, California, became a public historical site thanks to dedicated efforts to preserve his legacy. Bickel, a mechanically inclined Kansas native, moved to California in 1923 and worked in demolitions before becoming a prospector. He first visited the canyon in 1927 and returned in 1933, ultimately filing his own mining claim in 1934. Over the decades, he built a small but self-sufficient camp, relying on collected rainwater, salvaged machine parts, and his ingenuity to survive in the harsh desert.

Despite his dreams of striking gold, Bickel primarily supported his family through odd jobs and later served in the Army during World War II, where he invented a tool for rapidly changing machine gun barrels. After his discharge, he returned to Last Chance Canyon, living there full-time and welcoming visitors with stories, home-cooked meals, and lessons in gold panning.

By the late 1980s, government regulations threatened Bickel's way of life. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) cracked down on long-term residents on public land, and in 1987, they inspected Bickel's Camp to determine whether he could remain. Unfortunately, just hours before the inspection, Bickel suffered a stroke, forcing him into a nursing home. The BLM later deemed his operation too small for residency, putting the Camp at risk of demolition.

In 1989, Bickel's supporters successfully negotiated with the BLM to preserve the site as a museum, allowing a caretaker to reside there. Today, visitors can explore the Camp, which remains much as Bickel left it. Bickel's ingenuity and desert survival legacy endures with a caretaker on-site, offering a glimpse into a bygone era for future generations.

Bridging the gap between Red Rock-Inyokern Road and Trail 86B, Opal Canyon Road is a relatively smooth sandy trail, with only a few washboards to worry about along the drive. The trail is wide most of the way and a quick travel, giving you access to Opal Trail and many of the other trail options within Red Rock Canyon State Park. Although not a destination of its own, you are sure to travel this smooth sand at some point if you are looking to avoid pavement and travel as much of the park as possible. Since the trail is contained within Red Rock Canyon State Park, camping is not permitted along the trail. The only available camping within the park is at the Ricardo Campground across CA-14 near the state park visitors center.

Located entirely within Red Rock Canyon State Park, Roaring Ridge is the connector between Sierra View Road and Opal Trail. Being a simple connector, it offers views into the park's most interesting topography and the Scodie Mountains off to the west. It is suitable for any high-clearance vehicle, as the non-even terrain generally consists of packed dirt with scattered loose rock. 4WD will not be needed under normal circumstances. Dispersed camping is not allowed within the State Park.

EP 499 travels primarily north-south, connecting the Bonanza Trail with Bickel Camp, labeled as EP 30. The road surface is a mix of dirt and loose lava rock, making it rough in spots, but it is suitable for any high-clearance vehicle. As you travel, the trail will go up and over an open and flat playa area. This is good for dispersed camping and offers 360-degree views. Near Bonanza's boom area, there are a few scattered ruins and an old well to see along the way.

SC70 is a short dead-end camping spur off of Horse Canyon. The road is easy and mostly hard-packed sand and dirt, but it does have some ruts caused by water runoff that you will need to be cautious of if you are in a low-clearance vehicle. The campsite at the end is large and level and can accommodate any size group. The camp is fenced in like others in the area and provides a great hiking route into the Kiavah Wilderness, where you can walk amongst a large Joshua Forest.

EP 152 is a simple, bumpy dirt connector trail between the more popular EP 15 and The Narrows. Other than the steep dirt drop into the wash at the southern end, this shortcut is not overly challenging. Although not long, this trail provides good scenery of the surrounding hills and the barren California desert landscape. Due to its short nature, no camping is found along this trail.