Chimney Peak Backcountry Byway — El Paso Mountains to Cinder Cones

The Chimney Peak Backcountry Byway cuts through one of the least-visited pockets of California’s Mojave Desert, looping around the El Paso Mountains and skirting the edge of the Cinder Cones wilderness area northeast of Ridgecrest. The route runs roughly 35 miles of dirt and wash crossings through country that looks like it was forgotten after the last volcanic event — because it basically was. Key waypoints include the Chimney Peak summit area offering panoramic views across Red Rock Canyon to the west, and the deeply eroded canyon passages near Last Chance Canyon where old mining shacks still lean against the hillsides. You’ll bounce through sandy washes and over hardpacked volcanic rock, occasionally wondering if you took a wrong turn into a Mars simulation.

This is a high-clearance route that most capable 4WD rigs handle without drama in dry conditions, but the sandy wash sections can swallow two-wheel-drive trucks whole. Stock 4WD with all-terrain tires will cover it. The biggest hazard is summer heat — this is genuine Mojave, and temps over 100°F in July will punish the unprepared. Best season is November through April. No permits needed. Fuel up in Ridgecrest; there’s nothing out here. Water crossings are essentially zero. Dispersed camping is allowed throughout the BLM-managed corridor.