Trail Overview
This route begins off Ruby Ranch Road and follows the historic alignment of the Old Spanish Trail for roughly the first 2.5 miles, adding a unique sense of history to an already scenic drive. The road is a narrow two-track with a consistently sandy base that can become soft in places, especially after wind or recent traffic. Multiple washouts cut across the trail along the way, requiring drivers to slow down, pick good lines, and use caution. The landscape is wide open and remote, with sweeping desert views, rolling badlands, and a good chance of spotting Pronghorns or cattle from the surrounding ranchland. At approximately 5.5 miles, the route fades into the desert as the remaining section has been reclaimed by mother nature and is no longer defined enough to continue through to Crystal Geyser Road. This makes the trail best enjoyed as an out-and-back adventure with light exploration and historic character.
Difficulty
Sandy terrain, frequent washouts, and remote conditions are the main challenges. Most stock high-clearance SUVs and 4x4s can handle it in dry weather.
History
This route shares the first section of the historic Old Spanish Trail, a trade route used from the late 1820s into the mid-1800s. The trail connected New Mexico and California, carrying traders, livestock, and goods across harsh desert country long before modern roads existed. Travelers faced water shortages, rough terrain, and extreme weather, making routes like this vital for survival. Driving this section today offers a glimpse into the same open landscape that early expeditions once crossed with wagons, pack animals, and horses.
