Trail Overview
Starting at Highway 14 at Robbers Roost Mini Mart with public bathrooms, this sandy out-and-back trail heads to Cow Heaven Canyon on BLM limited-use land, requiring staying on designated trails. Fine sand surface can be deep at times. The trail crosses BLM LAP and LA1 routes. Great views unfold of Eastern Sierra Mountains and other mountains in all directions. The trail starts as a nice, straight route but winds its way through the desert, heading up into the mountains. Climbing over 2000 feet in just under 8 miles creates serious sustained elevation gain. The trail is lined with desert brush, including creosote bushes and smoke trees, with Joshua trees and seasonal blooming wildflowers adding variety. The last part enters the Kiavah Wilderness, featuring more vegetation and many more Joshua trees before ending in a lush canyon with a small turnaround. You'll encounter washboards, ruts up to 18 inches, and off-camber sections throughout.
Difficulty
Fine sand that can be deep at times requires four wheel drive, and airing down is essential for traction. Those ruts up to 18 inches are serious obstacles demanding high clearance, which is highly recommended. Off-camber sections and washboards add accumulated difficulty. Climbing over 2000 feet in under 8 miles means steep, sustained grades testing low-range capability. The winding nature through vegetation creates tight navigation in spots. The small turnaround at the lush canyon end requires careful maneuvering after the demanding climb.
