Tecopa Narrows

Tecopa Narrows is a wash where seasonal waterflow from the Kingston Range can flow toward the Amargosa River. During the warm season, the canyon is dry and its landscapes are accessible by a hike with a steep, rocky, technical descent from the Furnace Creek Road area.The trail is unsigned and unmarked, however observant visitors will be able to follow the use path as it crosses a shallow wash and ascends the other side before tracing a slope to the cliffs edge and then descending down a sharp, steep rocky path into the deeper canyon. The descent is short, however very technical, slippery, over steep and narrow footing with loose and sharp rocks all around. Once in the canyon, one is quickly struck how isolated this landscape is. Set on BLM land several miles away from the nearest small town, the area feels far removed from everywhere. Hikers can trace the gravel canyon bottom in either direction, though dense tamarisk tends to overtake much of the canyon bottom and can make travel slow in areas. Hikers might benefit from bringing a machete on the hike to trim back some of the dense brush that may have overtaken the path, as well as wearing clothing that might repel the bramble.From the main wash, small side canyons fork off along the way, and lead to surreal landscapes of slot canyons, caves, and dry waterfalls. Inside the canyon, there is less any trail, and more just two directions to explore - upstream or downstream - with hikers being able to veer off and explore any side canyons that pique their interest along the way. While the China Ranch Date Farm is just up the road, these wilds of the Tecopa area go very underappreciated. The narrows are a rarely visited jewel in the region.Be aware that there is no cel service after leaving the town of Tecopa. Those looking to hike the narrows should have navigation planned out in advance. There are no amenities or signage of any kind at the trailhead or along the hike. Arrive prepared.