Conquering the Pinkham Canyon-Thermal Canyon Road in California
The Pinkham Canyon-Thermal Canyon Road is a very scenic drive located in Riverside County, in the US state of California. It’s one of the most famous backcountry roads in the Joshua Tree National Park.
Where is the Pinkham Canyon-Thermal Canyon Road?
The road is located within the Joshua Tree National Park, in the southern part of California.
How long is the Pinkham Canyon-Thermal Canyon Road?
This unpaved 20-mile (32.4-km) tour leads through one of Joshua Tree National Park's most fascinating landscapes. It’s a good idea (especially when traveling alone) to check in at the visitor center and get an update on the condition of the roads and weather conditions. Sections of the road run through soft sand and rocky flood plains. Drivers should be prepared and should not attempt to travel on these roads without a high-clearance, 4-wheel-drive vehicle and emergency supplies. This route is not suitable for normal cars.
Where does the Pinkham Canyon-Thermal Canyon Road start and end?
This trail passes through remote areas, so you need to be prepared. This challenging road begins just south of Cottonwood Visitor Center, travels along Smoke Tree Wash, then cuts down Pinkham Canyon, exiting onto a service road that connects to I10. Or you can pass Pinkham Canyon and continue on to Thermal Canyon Road. The Pinkham Canyon-Thermal Canyon 4-wheel-drive road passes through the remote backcountry of Joshua Tree National Park; drivers should be experienced and prepared.