Midland Vidal Road

Trail Overview

Used by early settlers to travel between Vidal, California, and the now-ghost town of Midland, the Midland-Vidal Road was perhaps also used by Wyatt Earp, who lived in Vidal for a time. Along the drive, there are wonderful panoramas across Rice Valley and a marvelous perspective of the Rice Valley Dunes to the southwest. The trail provides a gateway to explore Rice Valley through its many intersecting trails, as well as the nearby mines, such as the Gold Rice Mine. However, at about the 17-mile mark at its south end, the trail abruptly becomes enveloped by a ten-foot wall of the ever-moving Rice Valley Sand Dunes, preventing further progress. Intersecting trails near this end reach the paved CA 62 to the west and US 95 to the east. There are existing dispersed campsites along its route with nice views, but these are in the flat desert that provides little wind shelter. Drivers exploring the area should carry adequate water, be equipped for self-rescue, and notify family/friends of their travel plans.

Photos of Midland Vidal Road

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Difficulty

This is an easy drive that ends at a ten-foot wall of soft sand that will trap heavier vehicles. A four-wheel drive vehicle is required to manage this trail.

Technical Rating

Midland Vidal Road can be accessed by the following ride types:

• High-Clearance 4x4
• SUV
• SxS (60")
• ATV (50")
• Dirt Bike