Giant Rock

Trail Overview

To reach Giant Rock, turn off Boone Road and head across Means Lakebed. The route generally consists of smooth desert sand interspersed with small washes. Numerous intertwining trails offer choices in your path. Be mindful of crossing ruts from intersecting trails and the occasional wash. Stay alert, as other vehicles can appear unexpectedly. Overall, this is a relatively easy way to experience the desert and a fascinating piece of history. While the main attraction is Giant Rock, there are many interesting sights to see along the way. Given the unreliable reception at Giant Rock, download information about both Giant Rock and the Integratron beforehand. Once you've explored Giant Rock, the short drive to the Integratron is worthwhile, as the two locations are historically connected.

Photos of Giant Rock

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Difficulty

There are a few rocks to watch out for, and after the last rain, there was mud on the lakebed; however, you could go around both. There were some deep ruts to cross and a couple of rocky washes to cross.

History

Giant Rock, following the lifestyle of the desert tortoise, Frank Critzer made a hole under the north side with dynamite in the 1930s and lived here till 1942, when he blew himself up while being investigated by police. In the 1950s, Giant Rock became a gathering spot for UFO believers. Integratron was built nearby with its own unique story. The rock split in early 2000, reveling white granite. Be sure to look up more of the history on your own about both of these locations.

Technical Rating