Mojave Road - Afton Canyon

Trail Overview

This trail retraces the historic Mojave Road from Soda Dry Lake through Afton Canyon to its termination point at Manix Wash. Most of the trail meanders along a sandy, dry riverbed and is not recommended during wet weather. Due to extreme summer temperatures, the trail is best traveled between October and May. It can be traveled in either direction. The trail can be completed with a stock 4x4. However, low tire pressure is highly recommended to avoid getting stuck in the soft sand. The most significant obstacles are two shallow water crossings, both of which have stone bottoms. In some areas, there are multiple trails through the wider sections of the riverbed, so GPS is highly recommended to prevent one from veering off the designated path into protected wilderness areas. Large rock cairns, some with vertical railroad timbers, can also be found along the trail to assist with navigation. The trail will parallel or cross sections of an active railroad at several points, so be on the lookout for approaching freight trains. Fuel and food facilities are unavailable, but a well-maintained vault toilet is located at the Afton Canyon Campground. Cell service is extremely limited, especially in the steep walls of Afton Canyon. In the event of inclement weather, mechanical trouble, or a medical emergency, three access roads along the trail can be navigated in 2WD to Interstate 15: Afton Canyon Road, Basin Road, and Rasor Road. There are many visual and historical points of interest along the trail, including slot canyons, railroad trestles, abandoned mines, and a mailbox for travelers to leave trinkets and other personal items to mark their presence.

Photos of Mojave Road - Afton Canyon

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Difficulty

Some skill and knowledge of driving in soft sand is required in order to safely negotiate this trail. Also, the depth of the water crossings can vary depending on recent rainfall.

History

Afton Canyon, often called "The Grand Canyon of the Mojave" is part of the historic Mojave Road, which stretches from the Colorado River near Bullhead City, AZ, to just outside Barstow, CA. This vital wagon trail connected water sources and facilitated passage across the Mojave Desert for 18th and 19th century travelers.

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