Coyote Creek Road
Mining history meets Joshua tree wilderness
Coyote Creek Road threads through the rugged eastern boundary of Joshua Tree National Park, where gold miners once hauled ore through granite boulders and desert washes. This remote track winds past abandoned mine shafts and crosses several sandy washes before climbing to higher elevation Joshua tree forests, with the Pinto Mountains forming a dramatic backdrop to the north.
Moderate difficulty with some technical rock crawling sections and deep sand that can trap inexperienced drivers. High-clearance 4WD required, with good ground clearance essential for the granite obstacles. Best tackled October through April when temperatures are manageable. No permits needed, but carry extra water and recovery gear. The payoff is solitude in one of the Mojave’s most pristine corridors, with excellent dispersed camping among the Joshua trees.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Rock |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote |
| Length (miles) | 18 mi / 29 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 4200 ft |
| Best season | October-April |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Desert Center, CA |
| Land manager | National Park Service |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
No recent condition reports. Be the first to post one.
Log in to post a condition report.