Old Dale Road

Total Miles
25.8

Elevation

756.64 ft

Duration

3 Hours

Technical Rating

4

Moderate

Best Time

Spring, Fall

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Old Dale Road 10

Trail Overview

An iconic trail in the mountains of Joshua Tree National Park. Start from either the north or the south trailhead and enjoy a trek through the history and beauty of the desert. Visit abandoned mines throughout the trail, or set up camp away from the crowds. This trail can be done in any high-clearance 4x4.

Photos of Old Dale Road

Old Dale Road
Old Dale Road
Old Dale Road

Difficulty

70% Of the trail is in deep sand that requires 4WD and the 30% is small to moderate-sized rocks that can pose damage to low clearance vehicles.

Technical Rating

4

Status Reports

Kris R
Apr 30, 2024
4x4
Open
Dusty
Nobody out there but me. I've been on driveways that are more technical. Almost zero effort in a JL with 3" lift. Stay safe though and bring options to call for help. The desert environment and distances are what you need to worry about. Don't underestimate the danger of the place just because it's pretty 😉
A Tucker
Apr 27, 2024
2023 Ford Bronco
Open
Normal
Dusty
Washboard
Went from north to south. Saw maybe 3 other vehicles. Beginning portion was washboard but very straight and easy to go fast to smooth them out. Couple technical parts rated at 4/10 in the middle near the switchbacks but that was the worst of it. End portion was sandy but easy and fast. Gorgeous desert views on a lesser seen part of Joshua tree national park!
Ashton Fera
Apr 13, 2024
2021 Toyota 4Runner
Open
Dusty
Rough/Deteriorated
Washboard
First long stretch is all washboard and quickly passable. Most difficult section will be reached as you exit the park. It is currently washed out and so the rocks are very exposed. 4wd and mildly high clearance would be required. A stock 4x4 on AT tires would be able to complete the trail.
Kaleb Padgett
Mar 24, 2024
2024 Jeep Wrangler
Open
Normal
Dusty
Fun trail. There a few more fun obstacles in the beginning (coming from the highway 62 side) than towards the end, but still definitely worth tackling. Jeep Wrangler Rubicon (mine) and Toyota Tacoma (friend’s) straight conquered with little to no issues.

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