Red Canyon Jeep Trail Guide
Red Canyon Jeep Trail is a easy 13.8-mile off-road route located south of Joshua Tree National Park in Riverside County, California.
This beginner-friendly trail winds through the scenic Orocopia Mountains, offering stunning desert views of canyons and mountain ranges.
While most of the trail consists of well-maintained dirt roads, a few sections with mild ruts and hills may challenge less experienced off-roaders. The trail connects to the historic Bradshaw Trail, now a popular overlanding route, making it a worthwhile adventure for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Trail Details
| Trail Type | Out-and-back (optional connector to Bradshaw Trail) |
| Difficulty | Easy to Moderate |
| Length | 13.8 miles |
| Time | ~2 hours |
| Elevation Gain/Loss | ~800 feet (1,400-2,200 ft elevation) |
| Trailhead Coordinates | N 33° 39.53′ W 115°43.37′ |
| Location | South of Joshua Tree National Park, Riverside County |
| Season | Year-round (best from October to May) |
| Information Number | 760-833-7100 |
Getting to Red Canyon Jeep Trailhead
From Interstate 10, take the Chiriaco Summit exit, about 4 miles east of the Joshua Tree National Park exit. Head to the south side of the freeway and turn right onto the paved frontage road labeled Pinto Road.
The General George S. Patton Memorial Museum, a notable landmark, is situated on the north side of the freeway. Drive approximately 1 mile along the frontage road until you see a sign on the left for Red Canyon Trail. From this point, the trail is well-marked, ensuring an easy start to your adventure.
The Trail
The Red Canyon Jeep Trail begins with a well-maintained dirt road and quickly immerses you in the rugged beauty of the Orocopia Mountains. The route is characterized by packed dirt terrain interspersed with sandy sections and occasional washboard stretches. These conditions make it ideal for beginners while still offering enough variety to keep seasoned off-roaders engaged.
Early on, you’ll encounter sweeping views of the desert, with layers of mountain ranges and canyons framing the horizon. The trail’s most challenging segments include a few mild ruts and steep hills, but these are navigable for any 4WD vehicle. Along the way, the landscape transitions between wide-open desert expanses and tighter canyon passages, showcasing the diverse terrain of this region.
This map shows Red Canyon Jeep Trail (#7), along with other trails in the area.
The trail culminates at Salt Creek, a dry desert wash near the boundary of the Chocolate Mountain Aerial Gunnery Range. For those looking to extend their adventure, follow the Bradshaw Trail (also known as Salt Creek Road or Summit Road) south for approximately 4 miles to discover the abandoned Eagle Mountain Railroad Trestle, a fascinating piece of local history.
Nearby Camping
Red Canyon Jeep Trail offers numerous dispersed camping opportunities along its route. Many spots are nestled within the canyons, providing some protection from the wind and stunning views of the starry desert skies.
The best camping areas are located away from the trail’s few steeper sections, ensuring a quiet and safe experience. Visitors should practice Leave No Trace principles and be aware of their proximity to the Chocolate Mountain Aerial Gunnery Range, which is off-limits to the public.
If you’re looking for a more established camping option, Joshua Tree National Park’s Cottonwood Campground is nearby, offering amenities like restrooms and water.
