Trail Overview
The SR2013 Red Canyon Jeep Trail is an ideal route for novice offroaders and scenic explorers looking to experience rugged Southern California desert landscapes with minimal technical difficulty. Running approximately 13.1 miles, this scenic point-to-point trail winds south from Interstate 10, navigating through the Orocopia Mountains near Joshua Tree National Park before connecting with the historic Bradshaw Trail. The route features an elevation gain of around 965 feet, climbing from a low of 1,296 feet up to a peak elevation of 2,170 feet. The majority of the trail is composed of loose dirt, small rocks, and sandy washes that are easily managed by high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles, SxSs, and dual-sport motorcycles.
While 90 percent of the journey is a gentle cruise, a technical rating of 3 is earned due to a few loose, rutted-out hill climbs that require careful tire placement and steady momentum. Beginners should take a moment to assess these brief hill sections, while experienced drivers will find them to be minor, enjoyable challenges. There are numerous dispersed campsites along the route, providing excellent spots to set up camp and take in the panoramic views of the colorful canyons and surrounding mountain ranges. High summer temperatures make late fall through early spring the best seasons to visit this desert trail, where travelers should always carry plenty of water and be prepared for hot, dry conditions.
