Lately, I’ve been focused on providing trail reports here in the American West that you can do yourself in your Bronco, so here we go again. In the Mojave Desert's stark and stunning landscape lies an off-road trail rich in turn of the century mining history and natural beauty known as Sperry Wash. It is also part of the larger Spanish Trail route that traders used to connect Sante Fe with Los Angeles in the 1820’s. This route runs from the towering sandscapes of Dumont Dunes northward toward the quirky desert town of Shoshone, California. This trail offers an adventurous ride steeped in the tales of failed railroads, mining ambition, and an unexpected desert oasis. With your Bronco, this half-day journey promises both off-road fun and historical exploration.
Getting To Sperry Wash Trailhead
Accessing the trail is simple. Take I-15 to Baker, California, a familiar gas and snack stop for travelers between L.A. and Las Vegas. Top off your gas tank here, just to be safe. From Baker, head north on Highway 127 for 31 miles toward Dumont Dunes. Turn off at the entrance to Dumont and head down the paved road for almost 3 miles. Just before making a sharp right turn and passing through the gates towards the dunes themselves, you'll stay straight on the dirt and find the southern entrance to Sperry Wash with a large gate and sign. This sandy and rocky trail loosely follows the remnants of an old railroad grade all the way to Shoshone. The full route can be completed in 3 to 4 hours, making it a perfect day trip with a mix of driving, exploring, and even a side detour for a date shake.
History of Sperry Wash & the Railroads That Couldn’t
Sperry Wash derives its name from the little town of Sperry, a location along a rail route tied to the mining booms of the early 20th century. This area was part of several failed railroad projects that attempted to connect the mining districts near Tecopa, Ibex, and even Death Valley Junction to the main lines serving Southern California. Most notably, the Tonopah & Tidewater Railroad (T&T) and the Death Valley Railroad (DVRR) aimed to transport ore from borax and other mineral mines through this unforgiving terrain.
The railroads ultimately failed due to a combination of high operational costs, unpredictable flooding in the washes, and the bust of the mining economy. Evidence of their dreams still lingers, travelers along the trail can spot eroded railbeds, old trestle supports, and the subtle cuts through the rock made for tracks that never truly carried the weight they were designed for.
Trail Conditions: Just Right for Broncos
The Sperry Wash trail is relatively moderate in difficulty and is mostly dependent on any recent flash flooding in the area, watch the weather reports before driving this trail. We drove it in late May and there were a few spots that would take some spotting and line choice but could be accomplished in a stock Bronco. The terrain is a mix of soft sand, gravel, larger rocky sections, particularly where the trail dips in and out of the wash itself.
Along the route, you'll encounter narrow canyons, desert flora, and perhaps a wild burro or two. Don’t rush the drive, some of the best parts are the views across the Amargosa Basin and the unique formations shaped by centuries of water and wind. You may even want to pull over and explore a bit but again, be prepared for a desert environment and don’t stray too far from your Bronco.
Side Trip: China Ranch Date Farm
No trip through Sperry Wash is complete without a short detour to China Ranch, a true desert oasis nestled in a canyon near Tecopa. To reach it, take the marked turnoff near the trail’s northern end before reaching Shoshone. The trail to China Ranch winds through dramatic rock formations and was a historic wagon route used in the late 1800s. It’s a beautiful and fun drive by itself with some areas too tight for vehicles to pass.
China Ranch has a fascinating history. Founded by a Chinese immigrant in the late 1800s who grew vegetables for nearby mining camps, it was eventually converted into a date farm, thanks to the natural spring and fertile soil in the narrow canyon. Today, it remains a working farm and bakery, famous for fresh date shakes, muffins, and cookies. The surrounding trails and slot canyons are perfect for a short hike to stretch your legs.
Shoshone: A Desert Gem with Gas, Great Grub, and History
The trail concludes in the sleepy, friendly town of Shoshone, a welcome sight after a few hours in the desert. Here, you’ll find fuel, a general store, and a few places to eat including the Crowbar Café & Saloon, a longtime traveler’s favorite and one I highly recommend.
Before heading home, stop by the also quite historic Shoshone Museum, a small but well-curated collection of local history. It covers Native American heritage, mining relics, and railroad artifacts from the very route you just traversed. It’s quirky, authentic, and air-conditioned, a great way to wrap up your off-road excursion.
Sperry Wash Review
The Sperry Wash trail turned out to be a really fun drive and one we’ll do again soon. Not only is in incredibly scenic, but it’s also a route through time and history. I always imagine being in a wagon or on those first trains, pioneering their way through the harsh desert. Luckily, we get to enjoy it in our comfortable Broncos.
If you're a history buff and avid off-road like me, Sperry Wash from Dumont Dunes to Shoshone should definitely be on your Mojave must-do list. Don’t forget to explore, take lots of photos, and report back on how you enjoyed this route.
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