Category: Trails

White Rim Trail

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The White Rim Trail is Canyonlands National Park is a 100 mile back country 4×4 trail that follows an strata of white lime stone along the edge of Island in the Sky mesa Located in Canyonlands National Park, Utah.  Back country permits are required for this trail, and although it can easily be taken in one day, the wise traveler takes their time and runs the route in several days and nights.  There are several camp grounds offering star gazing opportunities, and the grand vistas and long light in the early morning and late afternoon will inspire the Ansel Adams within you.

Mesa Light taken from the White Rim Trail and Lathrop Canyon Road. Photograph by James L Rathbun
Mesa Light taken from the White Rim Trail and Lathrop Canyon Road. Photograph by James L Rathbun

The trailhead is reached by leaving the Islands in the Sky Mesa, using the steep and twisty Shafer Trail.  The Shafer Trail is a back county route that takes you back to Moab, UT and a fun way out at the end of your trip.  The Shafer trail drops quickly and about 700 feet using 6 switch backs.  The Shafer Trail and White Rim Trail are well maintained and not very narrow, but the elevation and views give the feeling the route is dangerous.

Sunset along the White Rim Trail in Canyonlands NP, Utah Photograph by James L Rathbun
Sunset along the White Rim Trail in Canyonlands NP, Utah Photograph by James L Rathbun

Once down on the bottom, the well marked Shafer Trail continues on, while the White Rim Trail branches right and to the south.  All along the backcountry dirt road there are numerous spur trails, vistas, and points of interest give you much to explore including Lathrop Canyon, Musselman Arch, Washer Woman Arch and the Monster Tower.  The entire route is easy to follow, well maintained, well traveled and pure joy to run.

The trail winds along a layer of erroded light colored sandstone called the White Rim which undulates around several smaller side canyons which lead down the the Colorado River.  

Available Campsites

There are several small primitive campsites throughout the route.

  • Shafer – Mile 7 – 1 site
  • Airport – Mile 19 – 4 sites
  • Gooseberry – Mile 30 – 2 sites
  • White Crack – Mile 39 – 1 site
  • Murphy Hogback – Mile 45 – 3 sites
  • Candlestick – Mile 55 – 1 sites
  • Potato Bottom – Mile 66 – 3 sites
  • Hardscrabble Bottom – Mile 70 – 2 sites
  • Labyrinth – Mile 72 – 2 sites
  • Taylor – Mile 77 – 1 site

White Rim Trail

The White Rim Trail is a renowned 100-mile loop through Canyonlands National Park’s Island in the Sky district, offering a bucket-list adventure for overlanders, mountain bikers, and 4×4 enthusiasts. This rugged, high-clearance 4×4 route circumnavigates the Island in the Sky mesa, winding along the “white rim” ledge between the mesa top and the Green and Colorado Rivers below. The trail showcases breathtaking vistas of red rock canyons, towering buttes (like Airport Tower, Monster Tower, and Junction Butte), and the rivers’ confluence, rivaling views from the Grand Canyon’s South Rim. Key highlights include Gooseneck Overlook, Musselman Arch, White Crack (with views of the Maze and Needles districts), and Murphy Hogback, which offers 360-degree panoramas.

The trail features a mix of wide dirt roads, sandy patches, and technical jeep trails with some cliff exposure, particularly at Shafer Trail, Lathrop Canyon Road, Murphy Hogback, Hardscrabble Hill, and Mineral Bottom switchbacks. It’s moderately difficult for vehicles and challenging for mountain bikes, with an elevation gain of approximately 9,160 feet. The route can be driven clockwise (starting at Shafer Trail) or counterclockwise (starting at Mineral Bottom Road), typically taking 2-3 days to complete, though hardcore cyclists may attempt it in one day. Permits are required for both day-use and overnight trips, with 20 designated campsites across 10 camping areas, including Airport Campground. No potable water is available, and high water on the Green River (May-June) can flood western sections, making a full loop impossible. The best seasons are spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) due to milder temperatures and more predictable weather, as summer is extremely hot and winter may bring closures.

Trail Map

White Rim Trail Campsites

Canyonlands National Park is located in the south eastern corner of the state of Utah

Airport Campground

Canyonlands National Park is located in the south eastern corner of the state of Utah Located in the heart of Canyonlands National Park’s Island in…
Canyonlands National Park is located in the south eastern corner of the state of Utah

Gooseberry Campground

Canyonlands National Park is located in the south eastern corner of the state of Utah Gooseberry Campground is a remote backcountry camping area located along…
Canyonlands National Park is located in the south eastern corner of the state of Utah

Hardscrabble Bottom Campground

Canyonlands National Park is located in the south eastern corner of the state of Utah Hardscrabble Bottom Campground is a remote backcountry camping area along…
Canyonlands National Park is located in the south eastern corner of the state of Utah

Murphy Campground

Canyonlands National Park is located in the south eastern corner of the state of Utah Murphy Campground is a remote backcountry camping area along the…
Canyonlands National Park is located in the south eastern corner of the state of Utah

Potato Bottom Campground

Canyonlands National Park is located in the south eastern corner of the state of Utah Potato Bottom Campground is a remote backcountry camping area along…
Canyonlands National Park is located in the south eastern corner of the state of Utah

White Crack Campground

Canyonlands National Park is located in the south eastern corner of the state of Utah White Crack Campground is a remote backcountry camping area in…

Spring Canyon Bottom Road

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Canyonlands National Park is located in the south eastern corner of the state of Utah
Canyonlands National Park is located in the south eastern corner of the state of Utah

Spring Canyon Bottom Road is a rugged, scenic off-road trail in the Island in the Sky District of Canyonlands National Park, Utah, offering a thrilling descent into the park’s dramatic backcountry. This 12.2-mile one-way route (24.4 miles round-trip) connects Dubinky Well Road, just outside the park, to the Green River and the Hey Joe Canyon trailhead, descending via steep switchbacks into Spring Canyon. Best suited for high-clearance 4WD vehicles and experienced mountain bikers, hiking is possible but rare due to the trail’s length, exposure, and technical terrain. The road traverses a stark desert landscape of sandstone cliffs, sandy washes, and open flats, with sweeping views of the Green River, distant La Sal Mountains, and the canyon’s sheer walls. Rated as easy to moderate (technical rating 2) for 4WD vehicles and bikes when conditions are dry, the trail features tight switchbacks, rocky sections, and potential rockslides, with an elevation drop of about 1,500 feet from 5,500 to 4,000 feet. The journey takes approximately 1-2 hours by vehicle or 3-5 hours by bike, with hiking times varying significantly.

The trail begins at an unmarked junction off Dubinky Well Road, accessed from Highway 313, about 11 miles north of Moab and 1.5 miles past a rest area (38.6650, -109.7800). It enters Canyonlands National Park after 1.5 miles, where park rules and a $30 vehicle entry fee apply (payable at the Island in the Sky Visitor Center or online at recreation.gov). Key features include the dramatic switchbacks descending into Spring Canyon, primitive campsites along the canyon bottom, and access to the Green River and Hey Joe Canyon. Spring and fall are ideal for travel, as summer heat exceeds 100°F, and winter or post-rain conditions increase risks of rockslides and muddy washes. Flash flooding is a concern, and portable toilets are required for camping due to environmental regulations.

Trail Details

  • Length: 12.2 miles one-way (24.4 miles round-trip).
  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate for 4WD vehicles and mountain bikes (technical rating 2); strenuous for hikers due to distance, exposure, and uneven terrain.
  • Elevation Change: Approximately 1,500 feet descent; altitude ranges from 5,500 to 4,000 feet.
  • Terrain: Dirt, gravel, sandy washes, slickrock, and tight switchbacks with rocky sections. High-clearance 4WD required; OHVs, ATVs, and UTVs are prohibited in the park.
  • Access: Start at the junction with Dubinky Well Road (38.6650, -109.7800), reached via Highway 313. A park entry fee ($30 per vehicle) is required, and timed entry reservations may apply April 1–October 31, 2025, from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • Features: Scenic switchbacks, views of Spring Canyon and Green River, primitive campsites (backcountry permit required), and access to Hey Joe Canyon trailhead. No dinosaur tracks are noted on this route.
  • Challenges: Tight switchbacks requiring multi-point turns for larger vehicles (e.g., full-size trucks), deep sand, and potential rockslides after rain. No shade, limited cell coverage, and flash flooding risks in washes. Pets are not allowed off roads, and motorcycles must be street-legal.
  • Amenities: No facilities on the trail. Closest amenities are at the Island in the Sky Visitor Center (water March–October, restrooms) or Willow Flat Campground (vault toilets). Bring ample water, sunscreen, and a detailed map (e.g., National Geographic’s Trails Illustrated Canyonlands).

Hiking and Biking Notes

Hiking Spring Canyon Bottom Road is uncommon due to its 24.4-mile round-trip length, lack of shade, and technical terrain, making it a strenuous endeavor best suited for cooler months (March–May or September–November). The route follows the road, with firm footing on dirt and slickrock but no dedicated trail, and hikers must navigate sandy washes and rocky sections. Mountain biking is more popular, offering a challenging ride through varied terrain, though deep sand and steep switchbacks may require dismounting. Cyclists must stay on designated roads to protect the fragile desert ecosystem, including cryptobiotic soil, and yield to vehicles. The trail’s highlight is the descent through the switchbacks, offering breathtaking views of the canyon’s sheer walls and the Green River. Primitive campsites along the canyon bottom require a backcountry permit and portable toilet. Hikers and bikers should carry ample water, navigation tools (GPS or map), and sun protection, as trail markers are minimal, and the remote landscape can be disorienting.

Trail Map

History and Significance

Spring Canyon Bottom Road’s history is tied to the geologic and cultural evolution of Canyonlands National Park, established in 1964 to preserve the region’s dramatic landscape carved by the Green and Colorado rivers. The road’s path through Spring Canyon showcases the Entrada Sandstone, formed 165 million years ago from Jurassic dune fields, and the underlying Paradox Formation, a 300-million-year-old salt bed that caused fracturing and collapse, shaping the canyon’s steep walls and fins. This geologic legacy, driven by uplift and erosion, makes the road a vital access route to the park’s backcountry, offering a glimpse into its ancient past.

Historically, the region around Spring Canyon was inhabited by the Fremont and Ancestral Puebloan peoples until about 700 years ago, with rock art and ruins in nearby areas like the Needles District attesting to their presence. Spanish missionaries encountered Ute and Paiute tribes in 1775, and Mormon settlers briefly established the Elk Mountain Mission in Moab in 1855, abandoning it due to harsh conditions. Spring Canyon Bottom Road likely originated as a ranching or exploration route in the late 19th or early 20th century, used by prospectors and cattlemen navigating the rugged terrain. The area saw uranium prospecting in the 1950s, contributing to the park’s creation, as figures like Bates Wilson, the first superintendent, advocated for its protection after exploring the region’s canyons.

The road’s significance lies in its role as a remote access route to the Green River and Hey Joe Canyon, offering solitude and adventure in a less-visited part of the Island in the Sky District. Its switchbacks and canyon-bottom campsites reflect the park’s “Wild West” character, as described by author Edward Abbey, who called Canyonlands “the most weird, wonderful, magical place on earth.” The road’s proximity to the Green River connects it to the legacy of John Wesley Powell, whose 1869 expedition down the Green and Colorado rivers helped map the region. Today, the National Park Service manages the road to balance recreation with preservation, enforcing strict regulations to protect the delicate desert ecosystem, including requirements for portable toilets and permits for camping. Spring Canyon Bottom Road remains a cherished route for off-roaders and cyclists seeking an immersive experience in Canyonlands’ untamed beauty.

Willow Springs Road

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Willow Springs Road offers a rugged, scenic route into the western edge of Arches National Park, providing a quieter, less-traveled alternative to the park’s main entrance. Stretching approximately 7.9 miles from Highway 191 to its terminus at Balanced Rock on the park’s paved road, this dirt and slickrock trail is a backdoor adventure best suited for high-clearance 4WD vehicles, mountain bikes, or determined hikers. The trail winds through a starkly beautiful desert landscape, flanked by sandstone fins, scattered boulders, and distant views of iconic formations like the Windows Section and La Sal Mountains.

A less popular view of Balancing Rock in Arches National Park
A less popular view of Balancing Rock in Arches National Park

Highlights include dinosaur tracks preserved in the rock, expansive vistas of the park’s backcountry, and a sense of solitude rare in this popular park. The trail is rated as easy to moderate for 4WD vehicles and bikes, with challenges like sandy washes, small rock ledges, and occasional washboard sections. Hikers face a longer, exposed journey, with no shade and minimal elevation gain (approximately 500 feet). The trail takes about 30-45 minutes by vehicle or 2-3 hours by bike, with hiking times varying based on pace and stops.

Starting from Highway 191, about 11.5 miles north of Moab (near milepost 138.6), the trailhead is marked by a sign for Willow Springs Road. The first 3.8 miles traverse UtahRaptor State Park (formerly BLM land), passing dispersed camping areas and the Klonzo Trail System, popular for mountain biking. A large sign marks the Arches National Park boundary, where park rules apply, including a required entrance fee (payable at the main entrance or online at recreation.gov). From here, the road narrows, becoming rougher with sandy and rocky sections, and continues 4 miles to Balanced Rock. A notable stop at 3.5 miles from Highway 191 is the dinosaur track site, where well-marked theropod (raptor-like) and sauropod (brontosaurus-like) footprints, dating back 165 million years, are preserved in the Entrada Sandstone. The trail ends at a paved junction, offering access to park highlights like the Windows Section and Double Arch.

Trail Details

  • Length: 7.9 miles one-way (15.8 miles round-trip if returning to Highway 191).
  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate for 4WD vehicles and mountain bikes; moderate for hikers due to distance and exposure.
  • Elevation Gain: Approximately 500 feet, with gentle undulations.
  • Terrain: Dirt, gravel, slickrock, sandy washes, small rock ledges, and washboard sections. High-clearance 4WD required beyond the park boundary; 2WD vehicles can manage the first 3.8 miles to the boundary with caution.
  • Access: From Highway 191, turn east onto Willow Springs Road (38.696712, -109.698675). No pay booth at this entrance; park fees apply upon exiting or via online purchase. Timed entry reservations are required April 1–October 31, 2025.
  • Features: Dinosaur tracks at 3.5 miles, scenic views of sandstone formations, access to Balanced Rock, and a quiet alternative to the main park entrance.
  • Challenges: Deep sand and rocky sections require careful navigation for vehicles; hikers face long exposure with no shade. Flash flooding is possible in washes after heavy rain. OHVs and ATVs are prohibited in the park.
  • Amenities: Porta-potties and a vault toilet near the trailhead in UtahRaptor State Park; picnic table and outhouses near Balanced Rock. No water is available, so bring plenty.

Trail Map

Hiking and Biking Notes

For hikers, the full 7.9-mile one-way trek to Balanced Rock is a long, exposed journey best undertaken in cooler months (March–November preferred). The trail follows the road, offering firm footing on dirt and slickrock but no dedicated path. Mountain bikers find the route rewarding for its mix of hard-packed rock and sandy challenges, with stunning views of the park’s formations. Bikers should expect to dismount in deep sand sections and yield to vehicles. Both hikers and bikers should carry ample water, sunscreen, and navigation tools, as cell coverage is spotty near the park boundary. The dinosaur tracks are a must-see, marked by an interpretive sign and a short walk on slickrock.

History and Significance

Willow Springs Road has long served as a lesser-known gateway to Arches National Park, historically used by locals and adventurers seeking to bypass the main entrance’s crowds and toll booth. Its significance lies in its access to the park’s quieter western backcountry, offering a raw, unfiltered experience of the desert landscape. The road’s path through what is now UtahRaptor State Park (established in 2021) connects to a region rich in geologic and paleontological history. The dinosaur tracks, dating to the Jurassic period, highlight the area’s ancient past, when the region was a muddy floodplain roamed by theropods and sauropods. These well-preserved footprints, discovered along the road, are a testament to the area’s significance as a paleontological treasure trove.

Historically, the road was part of a broader network used by ranchers and early explorers, with remnants like an old shed and corral near Willow Springs Canyon hinting at past human activity. The area around Willow Springs was also a corridor for Native American migration routes, with nearby rock art sites, such as petroglyphs and pictographs, suggesting cultural significance for the Anasazi and other Indigenous groups. The road’s proximity to the Klonzo Trail System and its former status as BLM land made it a hub for dispersed camping until recent changes introduced fees and regulations under UtahRaptor State Park management. Its role as a “secret entrance” has made it a favorite among off-roaders and cyclists, though park regulations now emphasize responsible use to protect the fragile desert ecosystem, including cryptobiotic soil.

Willow Springs Road remains a unique portal to Arches, blending adventure, solitude, and a glimpse into the deep geologic and cultural history of the region, making it a cherished route for those seeking an unconventional park experience.

Masonic California – Mono County Ghost Town

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Originally known as Lorena, Masonic California is a ghost town located in the mountains north east of Bridgeport, California.  Masonic was founded in 1860 by masons and therefor the name of the town.  The Masonic District was a natural follower to the excitement is neighboring Aurora and Bodie.  This area was small in scale comparatively and a stamp mill wasn’t onsite until 1907.  The population maxes out at about 1000 people, and about four years later the excitement began to wane.

Mill site from the middle section of Masonic, California. Photograph by James L Rathbun
Mill site from the middle section of Masonic, California. Photograph by James L Rathbun

Early Beginnings (1860–1900)

The ghost town of Masonic, located approximately 10 miles northeast of Bridgeport in Mono County, California, emerged in the 1860s when a group of Freemasons discovered gold in the region. Named for the fraternal order, the settlement was initially called Lorena and developed into three distinct sections: Upper Town (originally Lorena), Middle Town, and Lower Town (formerly Caliveda). Situated in a canyon near the Nevada border in the Bodie Hills, Masonic’s early gold claims were overshadowed by larger strikes in nearby Bodie and Aurora, leaving the area largely undeveloped for decades.

In 1900, a 16-year-old prospector from Bodie named Joe Green rediscovered gold, establishing the Jump Up Joe Mine. Unable to finance its development, Green sold the claim, which sparked renewed interest in the Masonic Mining District. This district, spanning roughly 6 by 12 miles, encompassed over 40 claims at its peak and set the stage for Masonic’s brief boom.

Masonic Mill Site, Masonic, California. Photograph by James L Rathbun
Masonic Mill Site, Masonic, California. Photograph by James L Rathbun

Boom Years (1902–1911)

The discovery that transformed Masonic occurred on July 4, 1902, when partners John Stuart Phillips, Caleb Dorsey, and John M. Bryan struck a rich quartz ledge, founding the Pittsburg-Liberty Mine—named for Phillips’ hometown of Pittsburgh and the Independence Day holiday. Ore from the mine assayed at values between $35 and $800 per ton, with a reported nugget in 1904 valued at $4,000 per ton. This strike triggered a mining boom, and by 1906, Masonic’s population reached approximately 1,000 residents.

Infrastructure developed rapidly to support the growing community. By 1904, new roads linked Masonic to Bridgeport and Bodie, facilitating freight and passenger traffic. Lumber was transported nearly 50 miles from Mono Mills via the Bodie & Benton Railroad and six-horse wagons over Geiger Grade. Stagecoach lines connected Masonic to Wellington, Nevada, and Conway Ranch in the Mono Basin by 1906–1907. Telephone service arrived in 1905, and Middle Town saw the construction of a solid aspen-log cabin for Mr. and Mrs. H. H. Carpenter, notable for its rare glass-paneled door.

Middle Town became the commercial center, hosting a post office (established as Lorena in 1905, renamed Masonic in 1906), a general store, a livery stable, a butcher shop, and a hotel/boarding house. Lower Town featured the Jeffry Hotel, two saloons, and the Pittsburg-Liberty Mill, while Upper Town housed mine offices. The Masonic Pioneer newspaper, published by George Montrose of the Bridgeport Chronicle-Union, began in November 1905 but ceased after 2–3 years. Despite its growth, Masonic lacked a formal Masonic lodge, churches, or brothels, and maintained a relatively orderly reputation compared to Bodie, with no recorded shootings. Social life flourished, with dances featuring the Bodie Orchestra attracting large crowds.

In 1907, the Pittsburg-Liberty Mine opened a 10-stamp mill, allowing on-site ore processing. By 1910, the mine had produced approximately $700,000 in gold (equivalent to millions today). However, the ore veins were inconsistent, and production began to decline by 1911.

A wonderful view of Bodie is available to the travels en route to Masonic. Photography by James L Rathbun
A wonderful view of Bodie is available to the travels en route to Masonic. Photography by James L Rathbun

Decline and Abandonment (1911–1930s)

Masonic’s prosperity was fleeting due to shallow and uneven ore deposits. By 1911, mining activity had significantly decreased. A tramway constructed in 1913 to transport ore to the mill provided only temporary relief. The post office closed in 1912, briefly reopened in 1913, and shut permanently in 1927, with services transferred to Bridgeport. By 1920, the population had dwindled to just 12 residents, and mining activity nearly ceased by the 1930s. World War II’s ban on non-essential gold mining delivered the final blow, leaving Masonic abandoned.

Masonic Today

Today, Masonic is a true ghost town with minimal remnants, primarily in Middle Town, including stone cabin ruins, the timbered frame of the Pittsburg-Liberty Mill, and parts of the aerial tram system. Accessible via a 12-mile 2WD road from Bridgeport or an 8-mile 4WD route from Sweetwater Road, the site offers stunning views of the Sweetwater Mountains and Bridgeport Valley. Local lore suggests the ghost of John Phillips haunts the nearby Chemung Mine on Saturday nights, adding to the town’s eerie allure. Unlike the preserved Bodie State Historic Park, Masonic remains a “wild” ghost town, attracting adventurers and historians seeking an unpolished glimpse into California’s gold rush era.

Masonic’s ruins stand as a testament to its brief but vibrant history, reflecting the transient nature of mining towns in the American West. Its remote location and sparse remains preserve its rugged authenticity, making it a compelling destination for those exploring Mono County’s past.

Masonic Trail Map

Hanaupah Canyon Road

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Hanaupah Canyon Road, situated in the southern Panamint Range within Death Valley National Park, is a rugged backcountry route that serves as both a 4×4 road and a hiking trail. This remote path offers adventurers a chance to explore a dramatic canyon with steep walls, alluvial fans, and potential wildlife sightings like bighorn sheep or kit foxes. It’s less visited than popular spots like Badwater Basin, providing solitude amid stark desert landscapes. The road starts from West Side Road and ascends into the canyon, passing mining relics and leading toward Hanaupah Spring in the South Fork. Beyond the spring, experienced hikers can continue cross-country to Telescope Peak, the park’s highest point at 11,049 feet, though that’s a grueling extension. Suitable for day hikes, backpacking, or off-road driving with proper vehicles, but preparation is essential due to extreme conditions and isolation.

Key Trail Statistics

AspectDetails
LengthFull out-and-back: 18.7 miles; shorter options: 6 miles round-trip to Hanaupah Spring (3 miles one-way); extended to Telescope Peak: ~30 miles round-trip with off-trail sections.
Elevation Gain~2,200 feet to the spring (starting ~200 feet below sea level); up to 11,600 feet if continuing to Telescope Peak.
DifficultyModerately strenuous for the road to spring; challenging to strenuous for full hikes due to rocky terrain, steep grades, and loose gravel. High-clearance 4×4 required for driving; hiking recommended beyond initial miles to avoid vehicle issues.
Time Required3-5 hours round-trip to spring; 8-10 hours for full road out-and-back; multi-day for Telescope Peak extension.
Best Time to VisitOctober to April to evade deadly summer heat (over 120°F possible); avoid monsoon season (July-September) for flash flood risks.
AccessJunction off West Side Road (via Badwater Road). Unmarked—use GPS or park maps. No day-use permit needed; free backcountry permits required for overnight (obtain at visitor centers or online). Dispersed camping allowed 1 mile from West Side Road.
Water and AmenitiesNo reliable water except at Hanaupah Spring (treat before drinking); carry 1+ gallon per person per day. No facilities; nearest at Furnace Creek (~25 miles away).

Trail Map

What to Expect on the Hike

The route begins on a gravelly, washboard road from West Side Road, traversable by high-clearance vehicles for the first few miles before becoming too rough and eroded for most. Hikers follow the old mining road through a wide wash, encountering boulder fields, narrow sections, and occasional steep climbs. The scenery showcases colorful rock layers from ancient geologic processes, vast valley views, and the massive Hanaupah alluvial fan. About 3 miles in, the South Fork leads to Hanaupah Spring, a lush oasis with cottonwoods and year-round water— a stark contrast to the arid surroundings. Remnants of historic mining, like Shorty Borden’s cabin and adits, add intrigue (detailed in history below).

For the ambitious, beyond the spring, the path fades into cross-country travel up steep ridges to Telescope Peak, offering panoramic vistas but demanding navigation skills and endurance. Flash floods can reshape the canyon, creating obstacles like deep sand or washouts. Wildlife is sparse but possible; watch for rattlesnakes. The trail’s remoteness means self-reliance is key—bring navigation tools, as cell service is absent.

Current Conditions (as of August 2025)

Hanaupah Canyon Road is open and accessible for hiking and 4×4 travel, following repairs after 2023-2024 storm damage to West Side Road and surrounding areas. Recent hiker reports from early August 2025 indicate good conditions on the lower road, with some rutted sections and loose rocks but no major blockages. West Side Road is fully open, though sandy spots near the southern end may challenge vehicles. Flash flood risks remain during summer storms, and extreme heat persists—temperatures hit 84°F in mid-August. Check the NPS website or Furnace Creek Visitor Center for real-time updates, as conditions can shift quickly. Tire damage is common on approach roads; carry spares and emergency supplies.

This low-traffic route is perfect for those craving desert isolation, but always hike with a buddy and share your itinerary.

History of the Region

History of Hanaupah Canyon

Hanaupah Canyon’s history centers on mining, mirroring Death Valley’s resource-driven past. Silver ore was first discovered in 1889 by W.C. Morton on Telescope Peak’s northeast slope, in a timbered canyon with a strong stream—likely Hanaupah’s South Fork—yielding samples up to $1,000 per ton. Early claims like the Gold Hill Quartz Mine (located 1889) focused on silver-lead deposits, but remote access and high costs limited development.

The canyon’s most notable figure was Alexander “Shorty” Borden, who arrived in the late 1920s seeking fortune. In 1932, at age 66, Shorty filed claims after finding silver ore and single-handedly built a 3-mile road into the canyon using dynamite and a mule team. He constructed a stone cabin near Hanaupah Spring and mined sporadically until the 1940s, producing minor silver yields amid the Great Depression. Shorty envisioned a tourist camp, but a devastating flash flood in 1941 destroyed much of his work, including roads and equipment. Post-flood, activity waned, though the area saw brief tungsten interest during World War II. Today, Shorty’s mine ruins—cabins, tunnels, and artifacts—remain as preserved historical sites, offering glimpses into solitary desert prospecting.

Geologically, the canyon’s springs and faults highlight ancient tectonic activity, with the alluvial fan evidencing millennia of erosion from the Panamints.

Broader History of Death Valley National Park

Death Valley’s story begins with Indigenous peoples, particularly the Timbisha Shoshone, who have lived here for over 1,000 years, adapting to the extremes through seasonal migrations, hunting, and gathering mesquite and pinyon. European-American history ignited in 1849 when the “Lost ’49ers”—gold rush pioneers from Utah—became stranded while seeking a shortcut to California. Their ordeal, marked by one death and tales of hardship, coined the name “Death Valley” as they escaped via Wingate Pass.

Mining booms followed: borax in the 1880s (iconic 20-mule teams), gold and silver in the 1900s (ghost towns like Rhyolite), and later talc, lead, and tungsten. Tourism grew in the 1920s with resorts like Furnace Creek. In 1933, President Herbert Hoover designated it a national monument to curb destructive mining, with the Civilian Conservation Corps building infrastructure in the 1930s. Expanded under the 1994 California Desert Protection Act, it became the largest national park in the contiguous U.S. at 3.4 million acres.

Now, it attracts over a million visitors yearly for its records—like the hottest temperature (134°F in 1913) and lowest point (-282 feet at Badwater)—while facing challenges like climate change and flood recovery.