Bismark Short-Cut

The Bismark Shortcut in the famous Calico Ghost Town area, located in Yermo, CA, is a shortcut on Doran Canyon to the Bismark Mine. For the longest time, people thought this was Doran Cayon Trail. To many's disbelief, it isn't. This trail immediately turns right where the canyon opens up and heads up a tailing pile/jeep trail up the side of the mountain. You pass many open mines just feet off the trail along the route, so use caution while driving the trail. Once on top, you are at the Bismark Mine main spot that everyone photographs, which is the towering open-face mines where the cliff wall was just destroyed by what looks like a giant woodpecker looking for what might be his last meal. The trail is comprised of mine tailings, with rocks ranging in size from golf balls to baseball. These rocks have been compacted into a solid surface for the last 100 years. It is common for rocks to move around a little near the top of the trail as they are still settling in. This trail is suitable for any high-ground clearance vehicle with aired-down, durable off-road tires. Offroad experience is recommended, and 2WD is generally sufficient. Less experienced drivers may require 4WD.

Since this is just a shortcut, there are no suitable campsites along the trail. One spot at the top could support a group of 5+ vehicles at the top of the trail at the Bismark Mine. The spot is flat but mostly tailings, so the ground wouldn't be conducive to sleeping on it. Also, watch out for all the open mineshafts, as they have been known to ruin people's days.