Mojave Road — Needles to Afton Canyon via Mojave Desert Historic Trail

The Mojave Road predates the interstate by a century — it was a government mail and military wagon route in the 1860s, connecting Fort Mojave on the Colorado River to Camp Cady near Afton Canyon. You’ll feel that history in every mile. The route crosses the Mojave Desert east to west, passing through Soda Dry Lake, the eerie volcanic cinder cones near Fenner, and the soft sand at Devil’s Playground — a stretch that has swallowed unprepared rigs whole. Afton Canyon, where the Mojave River surfaces and cottonwoods line the banks, is the payoff at the western end.

This is a moderate trail most years, but the sand at Devil’s Playground and Soda Lake demands aired-down tires — 15-18 PSI is not optional. A stock 4WD high-clearance truck will handle it; a built rig handles it with confidence. Carry serious water — 5 gallons minimum per person. No services exist along the route. Best run October through April; summer temperatures will kill you and your cooler simultaneously. No permit required. The BLM’s Desert Tortoise Natural Area sits nearby, so stay on-trail.