Mojave Road — Needles to Afton Canyon via Mojave Desert Historic Trail
The oldest government road in California.
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.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Dirt, Mixed, Sand |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 140 mi / 225.3 km |
| Duration | 2-3 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 4100 ft |
| Best season | October-April |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Needles, CA |
| Land manager | BLM Needles Field Office |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Official sources | blm.gov |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock 4Runner or Wrangler handle the Mojave Road without modifications?
Yes — a stock 4WD high-clearance vehicle is the minimum and handles the trail fine under normal conditions. The sand washes are the real challenge, so airing down to 15-20 PSI is essential; a locker helps but isn't required.
Is the Mojave Road drivable in summer?
Technically passable, but summer temps regularly exceed 115°F out there — that's dangerous for you and your cooling system. Stick to October through April; the trail runs best November through March.
Do you need a permit to drive the Mojave Road?
No permit required — it's BLM land and free to access. Dispersed camping is allowed; just follow Leave No Trace and don't camp within 300 feet of water sources or the road.
What's the hardest section and what should I expect?
The deep sand washes — particularly around Soda Dry Lake and the approach to Afton Canyon — are where most rigs get stuck. It's not technical rock crawling, but soft sand in a heavy build with improper tire pressure will end your day fast.
How much fuel do I need, and is there any resupply along the 140 miles?
There is zero fuel or resupply between Needles and Barstow — plan for the full 140 miles with a buffer. Carry at minimum 5 extra gallons in a jerry can; a fuel-heavy rig or slower pace can push consumption higher than expected in the sand.
Trail track
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