Old Dale Road is a long dirt road located in Joshua Tree National Park. The road was originally designed for 4 wheel drive vehicles but have since been taken up by mountain bikers.

The route is very long and will typically require at the very least one full to complete. However, most simply go for a short distance until they've had their fun and turn back.

This is one of two unpaved roads in the area; the other being Black Eagle Mine. Both have a common beginning point but head off in different directions.

Trail Description

Starting on the main park highway, the road heads straight through the vast Pinto Basin. Upon raching the opposite end, it begins climbing, slowly at first, over the Pinto Mountains.

From there, the road drops in elevation as it descends down into the high desert. It finally ends at CA-26 20+ miles from the beginning. From there, either ride back or get someone to take you back.

Getting There

Look for two roads that look like this. The left one is Old Dale.

Due to its location, the nearest major city, Indio, is nearly 50 miles away. In the opposite direction, Blythe is over 70 miles away. Thus, it will take some driving time before actually having some biking time.

From Indio

Indio is just east of the famous town of Palm Springs.

From the city, drive east on I-10 to just before Chiriaco Summit. Turn off the freeway at the second exit for Joshua Tree National Park. Turn left and continue past Cottonwood Springs to a bend in the road where you find a big lot with two roads. The left is Old Dale and the right is Black Eagle.

Blythe

Blythe is right on the boundary between California and Arizona. Its location on the Colorado River attracts many passer-byers to come for a rest.

From downtown, take I-10 west past the post of Chiriaco Summit. Turn off at the first sign for Joshua Tree (Cottonwood Springs). Turn right and head into the park over to the lot mentioned above.

When to Bike

Summer is hot season as it is for everywhere in the southwest. Ground temperatures may reach above boiling levels during this time. Thus, it would likely be the worst possible time for biking.

Winter is much better. Temps are in the 60's though still very dry. Bring plenty of water.

Spring is generally the bloom season for the cacti that dot the area. Views are at peak though the temperatures are already beginning to warm up.

Autumn is very like spring though without the colors. Smoke may be seen off in the distace in the early part of the season from the annual So. Cal. wildfires.