Bradshaw Trail is a soft sand challenge in California
Bradshaw Trail is a maintained road located in Riverside County, in the US state of California. Due to stretches of soft sand, four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended.
Is Bradshaw Trail unpaved?
Situated in the southern portion of California, the trail—also known as the Road to La Paz, Gold Road, or Gold Road to La Paz—is entirely unpaved. Though periodically graded by the Riverside County Transportation Department, the trail features heavy sand in many areas. A 4WD high-clearance vehicle is required to navigate stretches of soft desert sand. The terrain varies from sandy washes to deep washouts, flat desert, hills, and small berms or steps.
How long is Bradshaw Trail?
Located between the Chuckwalla Mountains and the Chocolate Mountain Aerial Gunnery Range, this trail was once a primary route used to transport miners to the gold fields at La Paz. It spans 93 km (57.9 miles), running west-east from Summit Road to the Ben Hulse Highway in Palo Verde.
Is Bradshaw Trail in California worth it?
The trail leads through a rock hound's area with views of the Chuckwalla Bench, Orocopia, Chuckwalla, and Mule Mountains. Activities such as wildlife viewing, bird watching, rock hounding, and hiking can be done along this route. There are also information kiosks and map stations along the trail for further exploration in the mountains. However, no amenities are available directly on the trail.
What’s the history of Bradshaw Trail in California?
Established in 1862 by William Bradshaw, this trail was the first to cross the Riverside County desert, extending all the way to the Colorado River. It was a popular route for gold miners in the late 1800s.
Pic: James Hatton