What are the most scenic backcountry roads in Joshua Tree?
Usa, north-america
24.3 km
N/A
hard
Year-round
Located at the eastern end of Southern California, in the USA, the Joshua Tree National Park is immense, nearly 800,000 acres, and infinitely variable. Two desert systems, the Mojave and the Colorado, divide the park into two arid ecosystems. A fascinating variety of plants and animals make their homes in a land with strong winds and occasional torrents of rain. For your own safety and for the protection of the natural features of the park please stay on established roads.
What are the most scenic backcountry roads in Joshua Tree?
is a challenging, unpaved trail located in
Joshua Tree National Park
. It spans 24.3 km (15.1 miles) and includes steep sections with an 11% gradient. The trail requires a
due to obstacles like sandy spots and deep ruts. It offers scenic views and is open year-round, but
can change road conditions. Driving without stops takes about
Black Eagle Mine Road
Black Eagle Mine Road
unpaved route through a historic mining district in
Joshua Tree National Park
. The road gradually becomes rougher and more challenging, requiring a
vehicle with good clearance. It passes abandoned mines, including
Barry Storm's Jade Mine
Black Eagle Gold Mine
. The road is blocked near the end, and the area is remote, with no cell reception.
is a scenic, unpaved drive through
Joshua Tree National Park
, the surrounding mountains, and the
. The road is suitable for
high-clearance vehicles
, especially after rain or snow. The drive takes you through
Covington Crest Trailhead
Joshua Tree National Park
, offering a fascinating journey through geological formations shaped by
vehicle is recommended beyond the first few miles. The road features 16 interpretive stops, making it a great drive for learning about the park’s geological history. It takes about
to complete the loop.
41.68 km (25.9 miles)
Joshua Tree National Park
, passing through abandoned mines. It’s a challenging drive with sharp rocks and deep sand, requiring a
vehicle. The road is remote, with no cell reception, and can take
to drive. The best time to visit is from
, as summer heat makes it less suitable.
Pinkham Canyon-Thermal Canyon Road
Pinkham Canyon-Thermal Canyon Road
unpaved, scenic route in
Joshua Tree National Park
. It’s a challenging road through soft sand and rocky terrain, requiring a
vehicle. The road begins at the
Cottonwood Visitor Center
. Drivers should be prepared for remote areas and difficult conditions.
Driving the gnarly Nellie Creek Road in Colorado
Beef Pasture Gap is One of the Highest Paved Roads in Texas
Embark on a journey like never before! Navigate through our
to discover the most spectacular roads of the world
Drive Us to Your Road!
With over 13,000 roads cataloged, we're always on the lookout for unique routes. Know of a road that deserves to be featured? Click
to share your suggestion, and we may add it to dangerousroads.org.
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 24.3 km
- Difficulty
- hard
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