Trail Overview
Beginning as a three-vehicle wide, graded route off Ted Kipf Road, this sand and gravel trail enjoys spacious dimensions initially. The Chocolate Mountains rise to your west while the Imperial Sand Dunes spread south. Trees and desert brush surround the route as you pass BLM 760. Character shifts dramatically at the half-mile mark from the south, where it narrows to one vehicle wide and hugs a private land fence line. Beyond that transition, deeper ruts, washboards, and deeper sand appear while winding through open desert. An old Lear jet and an abandoned RV create surreal landmarks along the way. A couple of washes are interrupted with small bumps under 12 inches. You're in limited use territory of the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area, so stick to established trails.
Difficulty
The graded three vehicle wide beginning lulls you into comfort before the one vehicle narrow section tightens things up. Those deeper ruts and deeper sand in the latter section require attention and momentum management. Lots of washboards create a jarring ride throughout. The couple of wash crossings under 12 inches barely register. The fence line section demands precision to avoid drifting onto private land. Mostly manageable terrain that any competent high clearance vehicle handles.
