Trail Overview

This trail starts off with a piece of international history on the east edge of the route, then winds down through cyprus, ponderosa and mimosa trees along the largest lake in Texas, then out and across the remaining sections of national forest. Camping options range from high-end RV Parks to solo dispersed sites along the lakes or in the woods. Terrain includes red dirt, rock and black clay, all of which change with just a little bit of rain. You will cross parts of El Camino Real if history intrigues you. The road is roughly 60% dirt to 40% pavement.

Photos of Mission Mine Road

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Difficulty

There is one very difficult section just past the mine. This section might be easier travelling south, but would still be challenging. Heading north up the difficult hill is recommended only for high clearance 4WD and experienced drivers.

Technical Rating

Jerry Hutchins aka "Photojeeper"

May 05, 2026

Open

I started the trail as it branched off of Old Dale Road. So the trail was easy and got to the mining remains. After awhile I was being buzzed by bees. So I made my way out via the "difficult" section. Which was quite mild even going up rather than down. Just used 4low and made short work of it. Will be making a YouTube video on my channel "Photojeeper". Good views from the top. Took several landscape photos and panoramas. Weather was cloudy with a light breeze and nice temps. Ended the trail at what would be the beginning.

Quentin Tsosie

Apr 28, 2026

Open

Trail hasn’t seen much use. Large rocks are all over trail around the most difficult part after the mine. After the difficult part with larger rocks, there is some deep ruts. Used the old dale road back onto Joshua tree park land when you get to the old building with flags on it. The old dale road back to Joshua tree is very old, and rough with tons of deep ruts and large rocks. Not sure about going through the original trail to the 62 since I was staying in Joshua tree and needed to go back after the hardest part was over. After the horrendous downhill back into Joshua tree, the old dale road just loops back onto the same road right before you get to the mine with the metal mining structure. Other than the road to the actual trail being washboardy it’s a nice trail with a few nice inclines and obstacles.

Joshua Wyper

Dec 27, 2025

Open

Good trail. Very interesting to see this old mine.

Nilda Whitehill

Dec 20, 2025

Open

Vince G

Jan 01, 2025

Open

Mission mine is one of the larger mines in the area. Access is easy from the south. The bypass road from the Mission mine to the Sunset mine is rocky and rutted in spots. 4 low is a must, lockers come in handy.

Ashton Fera

Apr 13, 2024

Open

This trail is a great technical offshoot for those going down the Old Dale Road. It is rocky and rutted. Nothing too difficult but you would want high clearance and 4low to be able to comfortably pass.