Alice Mine

Alice Mine is an engaging 7.2-mile offroad trail ideal for moderate offroaders looking to explore a historic gold and copper mining site tucked within the Riverside Mountains. The route begins on the flat, sandy desert plains straddling the Riverside and San Bernardino county line before climbing into a rugged canyon. Offering a technical rating of 4, the terrain consists of uneven, rutted dirt paths with loose rocks, sand washes, and potential obstacles up to 18 inches, including small ledges and short, steep grades. Four-wheel-drive vehicles with high clearance, high-clearance SUVs, and SxSs will comfortably handle these conditions, though drivers should be prepared for tight, single-vehicle-wide tracks with limited passing opportunities. As the trail ascends from a minimum elevation of 520 feet to a maximum of just over 1,000 feet, the scenery transitions into the stark, colorful peaks of the Riverside Mountains. The main draw is the historic Alice Mine itself, where visitors can discover tailings and several levels of the old underground workings, though extreme caution is required around any open shafts. While the majority of the desert approach is straightforward, the final stretch leading directly into the canyon toward the mine becomes increasingly rocky and narrow, demanding careful line choice. This trail provides a perfect half-day desert excursion combining moderate technical driving with a fascinating glimpse into California's mining history.