Driving the picturesque Kelso-Cima Road in the heart of Mojave Desert
Kelso-Cima Road is a very scenic paved road, running through the heart of the Mojave Desert of San Bernardino County, in the U.S. state of California. As you travel this road, remember to exercise caution and watch out for wildlife, particularly the desert tortoise.
Where is Kelso-Cima Road?
The road is located in the eastern part of California, through the central part of Mojave National Preserve. Cell phone service is unreliable throughout most of Mojave National Preserve. The road provides access to many desert dirt roads of the park.
Is Kelso-Cima Road paved?
It’s a paved two-lane road usually in good condition and drivable by all passenger vehicles, though travelers should be aware that certain sections have become rough and potholed due to aging infrastructure. Sedans can generally manage the route, but some parts are badly bumpy from years of patchwork repairs. These bumpy areas can throw vehicles from side to side, especially on curves and in dips. The whole road is susceptible to flash floods and washouts, so use your own good judgment about the conditions before driving. Pay close attention to curve-ahead signs, especially on rough sections of the highway.
Why ‘Drive like a tortoise’?
Speed limit is 55 mph. Along the way it’s possible to see a few interesting traffic signs, warning drivers to ‘Drive like a tortoise’. Because speeding remains a serious concern within the Preserve, Mojave officials are encouraging visitors to adopt the motto “Drive like a tortoise.” This reminder is not only about ensuring safety for all road users, but also about protecting the area's wildlife, which is often affected by reckless driving. The initiative aims to promote safer driving habits among visitors. At present, the average speed on paved roads exceeds 65 mph, despite a posted limit of 55 mph.
How long is Kelso-Cima Road?
The road is 30.41 km (18.9 miles) long, running south–north from Kelso, a ghost town and defunct railroad depot named after railroad worker John H. Kelso, to Cima, a small town in a mountain pass on the divide between the Ivanpah Valley and the Mojave River basin, at an elevation of 1,272 m (4,175 ft) above sea level.
Is Kelso-Cima Road worth the drive?
The road offers access to several notable features within the Mojave National Preserve:
- Kelso Depot Visitor Center: This historic Mission Revival-style building, constructed in 1923, now serves as the Mojave National Preserve Visitor Center, providing information, exhibits, restrooms, and a bookstore for visitors.
- Cima Dome: A geological formation characterized by its nearly perfect symmetrical shape, offering panoramic views and opportunities for photography and hiking.
- Joshua Tree Forests: The road passes through dense stands of Joshua trees, part of the world's largest and densest Joshua tree forest, especially prominent around the Cima Dome area.