Arlington Mine/Patton's Cabin Road

In north-east Riverside County, lying between the Palen-McCoy and Big Maria Wildernesses, is Arlington Mine/Patton's Cabin Road, and it is one of the roads suggested by BLM as a primary route to explore. The road crosses the flat and sandy McCoy Wash until reaching the edge of the Palen Mountains, where a short but rugged climb reaches Patton's Cabin site. Surrounded by the Palen, McCoy, and Little Maria Mountain ranges, the road is never without an ever-changing, picturesque landscape. Arlington Mine Road provides an artery intersecting with a dozen other BLM designated trails to explore, including the Black Diamond rated Palen Pass Road.

The BLM trail markers indicate Arlington Mine Road as "Easiest" over the sandy majority of the road, but the westernmost 3 miles become more difficult, as they are over deep water worn ruts, turning, and then into a rough rocky surface consisting of 6-8" size rocks. A high clearance 4x4 is required to manage this trail.

Almost the entire length of the road is on BLM land, but the most appropriate dispersed camping sites are around Patton's Cabin location. Even in the desert, campfires may be prohibited.  Campers are responsible for knowing the campfire restrictions and having a campfire permit. Campfire restriction information can be found at the BLM Palm Springs South Coast Field Office and the Cal Fire websites, along with instructions to obtain an online campfire permit. 

This is a very remote area with intermittent or no cell coverage, and drivers should, before leaving, communicate their travel plans to family and friends, should carry adequate water, and be equipped for self-rescue.