The Dutch Cleanser Mine

4.6/5 (5 reviews)
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...Read More
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Highlights of The Dutch Cleanser Mine

Beginner Category IconBeginner
Desert Category IconDesert
Mine Category IconMine
Scenic Category IconScenic
Highest Elevation
3433 ft
Shape of Trail
Connector
Typically Open
Year Round
Best Direction
N/A
Official Trail Name
The Dutch Cleanser Mine
Nearest Town
Inyokern
Nearest Services
Inyokern
Management Agency
Red Rock Canyon State Park, Bureau of Land Management
District
Ridgecrest Field Office

Overview

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.

Trail Difficulty and Assessment

Trail Guide Overview
9 Waypoints
29 Trail Photos
1 Trail Concerns
5 Community Reviews
1 Video
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