Tidewater & Tonopah Trail

The Tidewater & Tonopah Trail is an easy walk along a portion of the old historic railroad bed adjacent to a scenic section of the Amargosa River.The walk shares a trailhead parking area with the Grimshaw Lake Nature Trail, and follows the railroad bed in the opposite direction. The railroad bed stands slightly elevated over the wetlands surrounding it, though time has allowed the path to become a bit overgrown, with washouts that have created gaps in the roadbed. The trail passes right next to Grimshaw Lake where migratory birds may be. Though the lake itself is small and not incredibly impressive. As the trail leaves the lake and follows a curve, it's possible to look west and see some small canyons and washes that eventually meet with the Amargosa River, which largely flows underground but surfaces in the wetlands of Tecopa.Near the end of the trail, the path reaches a small stream depression, leading the trail to curve and head to Tecopa Hot Springs Road. It's possible to continue walking down the road here, as Death Valley Brewing restaurant and brewery is a very short distance away (visitors should check hours before visiting since open hours are limited). One feature along this hike is a mostly hidden waterfall along this small stream - an unusual occurrence in the generally flat valley floor of the area.At this point, hikers can turn around and retrace their route to the parking area.There is no shade along the hike and the path can get very dusty. Hikers visiting Tecopa during the summer should be aware of biting flies and wear insect repellant.A high clearance vehicle is needed to reach the trailhead, otherwise visitors can park on the shoulder of the road and walk the .2 miles to the trailhead.