Mojave Road East — Soda Dry Lake to Kelso Depot via Lava Tube and Government Holes

The Mojave Road is one of the oldest desert crossings in North America — used by Native Americans, Spanish missionaries, and US Army camel expeditions long before any highway existed. The eastern section from Soda Dry Lake to Kelso runs roughly 40 miles through the quieter and more volcanic end of the Mojave National Preserve. You’ll pass Government Holes — a pair of reliable water sources that kept travelers alive for centuries — then cross the Aiken Mine Road junction and push through lava fields left by Cinder Cone volcanic activity before dropping into the Kelso Dunes area and arriving at the Spanish Colonial Revival depot. This stretch also passes within range of the Lava Tube, worth a side trip with a headlamp.

Moderate difficulty overall — a stock 4WD or capable high-clearance SUV handles this fine in dry conditions. Sandy wash crossings near Soda Lake can catch you off guard if you’re running street tires. No permit required. The preserve has dispersed camping and developed sites at Hole-in-the-Wall and Mid Hills campgrounds. Fuel in Needles or Barstow before entry — there is nothing inside. Best seasons are October through April; summer temps regularly exceed 110°F. Cell service is nonexistent in the interior. Pick up the Mojave Road Guide by Dennis Casebier before you go — it adds serious context to every mile.