Mojave Road
Dates
April 29 - May 02, 2026 (3 nights / 4 days)
About
The Mojave Road is one of America’s most historic overland routes, stretching 147 miles across the Mojave Desert from Needles to Barstow. Originally a Native American trade route used by the Chemehuevi and Mojave peoples for centuries, it later became a vital military wagon road in the 1850s connecting Fort Whipple in Arizona to Camp Cady in California.
This is a pure overland adventure - we’ll be tent camping under the desert stars for 3 nights, fully immersed in the rugged beauty and rich history of the Mojave.
Native American History
The Mojave Road follows ancient paths carved by indigenous peoples long before European contact. Along the way, we’ll encounter:
- Petroglyphs and rock art documenting thousands of years of human presence
- Sites along historic trade routes where tribes exchanged shells, obsidian, and pottery
- The traditional lands of the Chemehuevi and Mojave tribes who navigated this harsh landscape for generations
Highlights & Key Stops
- Fort Piute Ruins – Remnants of a Civil War-era military outpost guarding the road
- Kelso Depot – Historic railroad station in the heart of the Mojave National Preserve
- Lava Tubes – Explore underground volcanic caves formed by ancient lava flows
- Soda Springs / Zzyzx – Desert oasis and former health resort with natural springs
- Cinder Cones & Volcanic Fields – Dramatic desert landscapes shaped by volcanism
Trip Details
| Trip Type | Pure Overland (tent camping only) |
| Duration | 3 nights / 4 days |
| Terrain | Dirt, sand, rocky washes |
| Difficulty | Easy to Moderate |
| Meeting Point | Goffs, CA |
What to Bring
- Tent and sleeping gear – No lodging available; we camp where we stop
- Water – Minimum 5 gallons per person; no water sources on trail
- Food and cooking supplies – Plan for 4 days of meals
- Recovery gear – Tow straps, shovel, air compressor
- Full-size spare tire – Essential for remote desert travel
- Navigation – GPS with offline maps; cell service is extremely limited
Vehicle Requirements
High-clearance 4WD vehicle required. The road includes sandy washes, rocky sections, and potential water crossings. Make sure your vehicle is in good mechanical condition and prepared for remote desert driving.
Questions?
Come visit our monthly club meetings to discuss details and coordinate trip logistics.