Trail Overview
Willow Springs FS 44427 serves as a primary artery leading explorers from the wide-open desert floor into the rugged, high-altitude foothills of Mount Ardivey. The first 5.7 miles of the route offer a fast and enjoyable drive on a wide, well-graded two-track dirt road. As you reach the junction with Golden Wash Road, the trail makes a distinct turn to the northeast, and the character of the drive shifts dramatically. The road narrows to a single-lane track, beginning a spirited series of twists and turns as it gains elevation. This upper section provides an up-close look at the region’s intensive prospecting history, passing numerous weathered mining claims that dot the hillsides. The motorized track eventually reaches a junction where the original route becomes a barely recognizable two-track quickly reclaimed by the desert. From this point, most travelers choose to transition onto the Willow Springs Bypass, which provides a scenic loop connecting back toward the Four Mile Springs system. While not technically difficult, the trail offers a sense of deep-mountain solitude and spectacular views of the towering peaks above.
Expect zero cell service once you enter the mountain folds. The high ridges of Mt. Ardivey create a complete signal dead zone. Download offline maps before leaving the Tonopah or Highway 376 area.
Difficulty
Rated a 2 primarily because the second half of the trail is a narrow single-lane track. Drivers should be prepared to use turnouts or reverse if they encounter oncoming traffic in the tighter sections. There are only a few minor wash crossings along the route. These are generally shallow but may feature loose volcanic rock that requires a steady pace.
