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Amazing and a must go, especially during the early morning! I went on a day trip from Irvine and only took about 3 hours to get to the dunes from SoCal and it is such a sight to see being on 700ft/230m sand dunes!!! The drive was easy: Go on 40, enter the Mojave preserve going north then make a left on an unmarked, unpaved road pointing Kelso Dunes. There's a lot of potholes and as long as you go 15mph you're good. Try not to go too fast since reception is very spotty and getting stuck here you'll be hours from any help. Now it's during the COVID epidemic and basically all services here are closed: restrooms, campgrounds, visitor centers, etc. But the natural aspects of the Mojave Preserve is open and doesn't cost anything to visit! I left around 1am, drove through Barstow and arrived around 4:30 am in the dark and started climbing. It was nice and cool and around halfway to the top, the sun came up and it was already getting warm. The whole roundtrip takes about 3 hours walking (not including the time spent on top of the sand dunes) and while it looks close at first, it's quite challenging one you're on the sand (as long as you stay on the ridges, it's easier of course). I definitely wished I brought something to board with, as the slopes are quite steep and would probably be great sledding material. Still found good pics though! 5/5, I recommend this to any adventurer that likes seeing some remote natural beauty, and a small getaway from the hustle of modern life.
We took a trip from the Teutonia Peak Trail over to Kelso Dunes while hiking in the area. The drive down the long bumpy road to the start of the trail took over 30 minutes to get 2ish miles due to all the potholes. The speed limit on that road is 15, but I wouldn't go over 5 mph if you don't have a 4x4! The road is not kept up, which is a shame since the Kelso Dunes are beautiful. The bathrooms at the start of the trail are closed right now due to the pandemic and with no restrooms for miles upon miles, you are left with the need to go or the option of going outside. We missed the entrance to the trail, which is where the closed restrooms are and there is a good amount of parking with designated wooden fence that we sort of missed when we realized the bathrooms were closed. I should have read the sign better. Then we drove down the road more to where the camping area?? I think is. I'm sure not following the trail made the hike so much harder. The soft sand loves to enter your shoes! There were times I could not climb without my feet sinking and instead ended up doing mountain climbers on the side of the dune to try and make it to the top. So I got an incredible workout! We had an amazing time and loved the view! My tips: Drive 5 mph or a 4X4 or other vehicle that can handle that bumpy pot holes filled road. Definitely use the designated trail. Use the bathroom whenever you see a gas station. Don't forget to reapply your sunscreen. It was a gorgeous 80 degrees today which doesn't happen often at the end of June in the desert and there was a nice breeze but I didn't reapply my sunscreen very well on my shoulders, face and chest and took a very nice sunburn home with me! No matter what--enjoy the beauty in the dunes. It is breathtaking! Can't wait to go back!
[19/100] Cold sand is just as painful to walk through barefoot as it is hot and it still gets everywhere! Kelso Dunes isn't the tallest dunes I've climbed or road down on a body board, BUT it is the funnest! Visited on a sunny with my snowboard turned sand board minus the bindings. It was such a good time because I had the place all to myself. Another human being was a good mile or 2 away. I was screaming so loud from how fast my board was going down these sand dunes, no wax or grease needed. The hike from the road (the camp site is) isn't too bad, definitely gets the heart rate going! Theres a lot of vegetation that grows on the sand; however, it lessens getting closer to the dunes. The sand in the shade is extremely cold and will transfer a chill through your entire foot to the ankle, instantaneously! The sand exposed to the sand is bearable and got better as the day progressed. There are bathrooms about a mile away from where the dunes actually start. There are also signs that provide information about the sand dunes and surrounding area. The road isn't well kept and will shake the crap out of your car! I visited after rain and the road was muddy and had a lot of pot holes, so be careful when driving through! DO NOT GET STUCK! The drive is about 3 1/2 from Los Angeles and around the same from San Diego. It's one of the better long drives that I've done. There actually stuff to see and the terrain changes along the drive, it isn't just flat desert. What to bring: - Sled and/or snowboard (with or without bindings) - Water - Sunblock (even in the winter) - Handsanitizer and/or wipes - Extra clothes ( SAND GETS EVERYWHERE!) Pros: - Free - Easy to find - Secluded - Beautiful area - On the other side of Joshua Tree Cons: - The roads are rough! - Service is spotty. Bookmark it, visit it, review it!
Amazing view from the top of the dune. Love climbing and descending dunes. It is surrounded by the vast land, mountains. There is a spacious parking lot with the restroom.
First off, if you're in the area and want to hike some cool ish then cooooome on down!! I suggest sunblock, water, some tunes, and some type of board to go down the dunes. Oh and maybe a bandana or face mask to help you when you reach the top! I researched this a bit and found out it was a good hike to get to the top and that a board would it a lot better, so I brought my snowboard to use as a SANDBOARD. Well, I had all the necessities listed above BUT sunblock, luckily a local hiker hooked me up. Everyone who's hiking there is friendly and won't hesitate to help or join you. The trek to the top took roughly over an hour, but the views was well worth it! Make sure to locate sand that's hard to make the hike easier and to climb the dunes from the sides as oppose going straight up because you will sink! Once you reach the top you will have a bunch of gusts of sand coming from every direction, so be prepared with a mask and a water bottle to rinse off. If you're standing away from the edges you'll be alright and can just enjoy the calling of the wind. When coming down the sand dunes the sand will make an unusual noise, but pretty cool to experience. If you're SANDBOARDING, I recommend you don't stop once you commence because attempting to get back up after eating it will be a difficult task! Keep the momentum going or be prepared for the 2nd part of the workout. Overall 5 stars because you can't hate on Mother Natures wonders! They have restrooms at the parking lot for you to use, but are only light is through an open window. The road to the parking lot is bumpy, but do-able for non 4x4s and trucks. I have a rear wheel Dodge Charger and made it just fine!
It's amazing how many different environments we have in southern CA. I've heard of the Kelso Dunes, but was clueless, they were only a few hours from my residents. Therefore, I decided to take a road trip and what a surprise these dunes were. Directions are simple, but hiking in the sand is no joke. However, if you enjoy working out, being in nature and sweating, this hike will give it all to you. Please take water with you. Also, eat before the hike and I would suggest some snacks in the car for when you return. In addition a change of socks and shoes. You will definitely get dirty. If you have an opportunity, check out the dunes and be please respect the wildlife in the area. Be Safe and enjoy the dunes!
This is definitely a must see! We drove in from the 40 freeway, and on the way to the dunes the granite hills are a few miles down the road. Then all of a sudden you just see these big hills of sand off in the distance. We had a blast. It definitely could be a little challenging if you're out of shape BUT once you get to where you want to be it's so quiet and peaceful. Sand does get everywhere but it's manageable. Pictures are so fun we captured some fun moments. The sunset was gorgeous. It's easy to find from either freeway. The road is a bit rough that takes you to the dunes from the main road. They have bathrooms in the parking lot (not the greatest smell). As for cell reception I think it depends on your provider. I definitely want to stop here again on our way to Vegas!
THE SOUNDS WE HEARD WAS LIKE NO OTHER! Me and The Crew headed out to the Mojave Desert for the weekend again and on our way back like last year, we stopped by the Kelso Depot Visitor Center on our way back home so those who missed out last year had a chance to check it out. The high point of this trip came after leaving the depot. Our adventure took place at Kelso Dunes, also known as the Kelso Dune Field, is the largest field of eolian sand deposits in the Mojave Desert. The region is protected by the Mojave National Preserve and is located near the town of Baker, San Bernardino County, California, and the Preserve Visitor Center. The dune field covers 45 square miles and includes migrating dunes, vegetation-stabilized dunes, sand sheets, and sand ramps. The tallest dunes rise up to 650 feet above the surrounding terrain. OUR ROUTE: The trail head is a mile or so of dirty, dusty road from the paved road. An easy to follow unmarked trail to the base of the dunes is a relatively flat with a mix of soft sand. The trek was a nice glute warm up for the 650' one step up three slides down glute burning dune. The 360 degree view from the crest of the dunes is breathtaking, both literally and figuratively. What goes up, must come down, and oh boy coming down the dunes was more fun than riding any roller coaster. Oh sure, if you have any fear of heights it can be intimidating, but once you get started racing down the hill, you'll realize there's nothing to be afraid of, it's only sand, no rocks and no bushes. The more speed behind the run, the more awesome. With every running step comes a roaring sound, a bellowing sound and it's just amazing. HOP SKIP AND A JUMP! What else is there to say? Running the dunes took us back to our childhood, a time when we did not know, nor understand the concept of fear. We were FREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!! WHEEEEE!!!
I went camping out in the Mojave this past weekend and we went to the Kelso Dunes, and the only thing I can say about it is that it is amazing. The hike from the parking spot to the bottom of the dunes was a little tricky (think soft beach sand for 1.7 miles), but the reward once we hiked to the top of the 600ft dune was kicking off our shoes and enjoying breathtaking view of the Mojave. It was very windy up there, if your ears bother you, I suggest a hat with a bandana stuck underneath to cover your ears. Also, wear something over your eyes, as flying sand is not fun. Also bring water and wear sunscreen.. We hiked it at around 3:30/4 pm and that was a perfect time to hike, we got to the top and came back down just as the sun was beginning to set. I can't imagine this hike being fun when it's any hotter than 70-75 degrees out, so its probably best to do it in Spring, Winter or Fall. pics here: http://www.maybeyoushouldsleep.com/photos/hikes/kelso-dunes/index.php
One of my all-time favorite hikes!!! About 2.5 hours from Vegas, these giant sand dunes are a TOTAL BLAST to hike! I went in April, when it was probably about 80 degrees out, and it was perfect. The dunes are pretty remote, down a long dirt road, so you don't run into too many other people out here. They don't allow sand rails and dune buggies out here, so you won't run into any testosterone-crazed rednecks, either. It took me about a solid hour to climb to the top of the biggest dune. What a workout! You know how hiking in sand is...one step forward, two steps back! But once you do make it to the top, the view is amazing! Major bonus: these are known as "Booming Dunes" that are composed of some weird silica that "sings" when you slide down them. The sand vibrates, kinda like a didgeridoo. Weird and cool, although not as loud and "boomy" as I had imagined. Still SUPER cool, though! Camping is permitted at the Kelso Dunes, though I've never done it. There are no bathrooms or running water, so it would be boondocking for sure. But there are plenty of shade trees and a BBQ pit...and I bet it's an awesomely quiet, relaxing spot. When you leave, you can go back the way you came and stop in Baker for lunch (Mad Greek...holla!) or you can take Nipton Rd. instead, for a change of scenery that takes you through a Joshua tree forest and past some weird pancake rock outcroppings. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!
Our proposal was here at the Kelso Dunes trail entrance on NOV. 18. 2018, we had lost a very important earring around this area. It's a white skeleton about 3 inches long. If you had seen it on the ground or had picked it up PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE let me know it would mean the world to me to have it back. THANK YOU!!!
I found Kelso Dunes googling for local deserts. This place was perfect for my engagement photos. I was inspired by Beyoncé and Jay-z's on the run tour. The drive there from LA was about 3 hours total and 3 hours back. The parking was obvious (thank goodness). The hike to the base of the dunes was about a mile and took about 20 minutes. Considering I was in a gown and doc martins. It was an amazing spot and I never breathed in such fresh air. Definitely recommend for photo shoots or a good hike!
While approaching the dune, I was blown away by how big it was. The sight of it, and the site itself, is incredible. From the parking lot, the walk to the dune does not look lengthy, but small and easily conquerable. I was definitely wrong while 1/4th into the hike. This was pretty hard, especially with the sun beating down on my back and the sand clogging up my shoes. But we made it to the top of the dune in about an hour and 20 minutes. The sight from the top is breathtaking and it was great to just sit and take it all in. It's like you're on the top of the world LOL. It was also cool how the sand would "sing" as we slid down it. This made sledding down the dune more interesting. To be prepared for this arduous hike, I suggest bringing an umbrella, lots of water, shoes, sunscreen, a towel, and a camera.
A bit of a trek from San Diego but so worth it to go! We camped at the base of the dunes. I do not think you have to reserve the spots but if you do, you don't reserve any particular camp site. The dunes were a slight hike from campsite to top of the dunes but not too bad! Once at the top, the view is beautiful, especially if there for sunrise or sunset. Make sure to bring something the slide down the dune with! Made the hike up worth every step! read more
Definitely a great place to hike in the fall and spring time, also winter too. Warning, do not hike in the summer. Extreme heat and can be dangerous for some. We did our hike in December. It was a perfect day to hike this dune. We started around 2pm and came down at the right time to catch some beautiful winter sunsets. Definitely a great place to hike at night. Do not miss out on this hike if you are heading out to Vegas. It's technically open 24/7 so you can do it any time. Take precaution during night time and bring flash lights for emergency situation. There are multiple peaks at this dunes to climb. Based on how the sand has shifted due to winds, some peaks might be higher than others at different times. And yes, you will see people sliding down the dunes. W read more
Where to start... the main access road is closed until March 8th so the only way to get there is by using the detour road. The detour signs are easy to follow and I highly recommend using a high clearance or 4WD vehicle. The drive there was 4 miles of off-road but it was smoother than the road to the lava tube. Don't park too close to the dunes because some of the ground is soft sand unless you have a 4WD vehicle. It seems like everyone was just going all over the place. The general direction is to just head towards the dunes. It was not easy to walk in the sand especially the inclines. Highly recommend bringing trekking poles! read more
Amazing and a must go, especially during the early morning! I went on a day trip from Irvine and only took about 3 hours to get to the dunes from SoCal and it is such a sight to see being on 700ft/230m sand dunes!!! The drive was easy: Go on 40, enter the Mojave preserve going north then make a left on an unmarked, unpaved road pointing Kelso Dunes. There's a lot of potholes and as long as you go 15mph you're good. Try not to go too fast since reception is very spotty and getting stuck here you'll be hours from any help. Now it's during the COVID epidemic and basically all services here are closed: restrooms, campgrounds, visitor centers, etc. But the natural aspects of the Mojave Preserve is open and doesn't cost anything to visit! I left around 1am, drove through Barstow and arrived around 4:30 am in the dark and started climbing. It was nice and cool and around halfway to the top, the sun came up and it was already getting warm. The whole roundtrip takes about 3 hours walking (not including the time spent on top of the sand dunes) and while it looks close at first, it's quite challenging one you're on the sand (as long as you stay on the ridges, it's easier of course). I definitely wished I brought something to board with, as the slopes are quite steep and would probably be great sledding material. Still found good pics though! 5/5, I recommend this to any adventurer that likes seeing some remote natural beauty, and a small getaway from the hustle of modern life. read more
We took a trip from the Teutonia Peak Trail over to Kelso Dunes while hiking in the area. The drive down the long bumpy road to the start of the trail took over 30 minutes to get 2ish miles due to all the potholes. The speed limit on that road is 15, but I wouldn't go over 5 mph if you don't have a 4x4! The road is not kept up, which is a shame since the Kelso Dunes are beautiful. The bathrooms at the start of the trail are closed right now due to the pandemic and with no restrooms for miles upon miles, you are left with the need to go or the option of going outside. We missed the entrance to the trail, which is where the closed restrooms are and there is a good amount of parking with designated wooden fence that we sort of missed when we realized the bathrooms were closed. I should have read the sign better. Then we drove down the road more to where the camping area?? I think is. I'm sure not following the trail made the hike so much harder. The soft sand loves to enter your shoes! There were times I could not climb without my feet sinking and instead ended up doing mountain climbers on the side of the dune to try and make it to the top. So I got an incredible workout! We had an amazing time and loved the view! My tips: Drive 5 mph or a 4X4 or other vehicle that can handle that bumpy pot holes filled road. Definitely use the designated trail. Use the bathroom whenever you see a gas station. Don't forget to reapply your sunscreen. It was a gorgeous 80 degrees today which doesn't happen often at the end of June in the desert and there was a nice breeze but I didn't reapply my sunscreen very well on my shoulders, face and chest and took a very nice sunburn home with me! No matter what--enjoy the beauty in the dunes. It is breathtaking! Can't wait to go back! read more
10 years ago
[19/100] Cold sand is just as painful to walk through barefoot as it is hot and it still gets everywhere! Kelso Dunes isn't the tallest dunes I've climbed or road down on a body board, BUT it is the funnest! Visited on a sunny with my snowboard turned sand board minus the bindings. It was such a good time because I had the place all to myself. Another human being was a good mile or 2 away. I was screaming so loud from how fast my board was going down these sand dunes, no wax or grease needed. The hike from the road (the camp site is) isn't too bad, definitely gets the heart rate going! Theres a lot of vegetation that grows on the sand; however, it lessens getting closer to the dunes. The sand in the shade is extremely cold and will transfer a chill through your entire foot to the ankle, instantaneously! The sand exposed to the sand is bearable and got better as the day progressed. There are bathrooms about a mile away from where the dunes actually start. There are also signs that provide information about the sand dunes and surrounding area. The road isn't well kept and will shake the crap out of your car! I visited after rain and the road was muddy and had a lot of pot holes, so be careful when driving through! DO NOT GET STUCK! The drive is about 3 1/2 from Los Angeles and around the same from San Diego. It's one of the better long drives that I've done. There actually stuff to see and the terrain changes along the drive, it isn't just flat desert. What to bring: - Sled and/or snowboard (with or without bindings) - Water - Sunblock (even in the winter) - Handsanitizer and/or wipes - Extra clothes ( SAND GETS EVERYWHERE!) Pros: - Free - Easy to find - Secluded - Beautiful area - On the other side of Joshua Tree Cons: - The roads are rough! - Service is spotty. Bookmark it, visit it, review it! read more
9 years ago
First off, if you're in the area and want to hike some cool ish then cooooome on down!! I suggest sunblock, water, some tunes, and some type of board to go down the dunes. Oh and maybe a bandana or face mask to help you when you reach the top! I researched this a bit and found out it was a good hike to get to the top and that a board would it a lot better, so I brought my snowboard to use as a SANDBOARD. Well, I had all the necessities listed above BUT sunblock, luckily a local hiker hooked me up. Everyone who's hiking there is friendly and won't hesitate to help or join you. The trek to the top took roughly over an hour, but the views was well worth it! Make sure to locate sand that's hard to make the hike easier and to climb the dunes from the sides as oppose going straight up because you will sink! Once you reach the top you will have a bunch of gusts of sand coming from every direction, so be prepared with a mask and a water bottle to rinse off. If you're standing away from the edges you'll be alright and can just enjoy the calling of the wind. When coming down the sand dunes the sand will make an unusual noise, but pretty cool to experience. If you're SANDBOARDING, I recommend you don't stop once you commence because attempting to get back up after eating it will be a difficult task! Keep the momentum going or be prepared for the 2nd part of the workout. Overall 5 stars because you can't hate on Mother Natures wonders! They have restrooms at the parking lot for you to use, but are only light is through an open window. The road to the parking lot is bumpy, but do-able for non 4x4s and trucks. I have a rear wheel Dodge Charger and made it just fine! read more
9 years ago
It's amazing how many different environments we have in southern CA. I've heard of the Kelso Dunes, but was clueless, they were only a few hours from my residents. Therefore, I decided to take a road trip and what a surprise these dunes were. Directions are simple, but hiking in the sand is no joke. However, if you enjoy working out, being in nature and sweating, this hike will give it all to you. Please take water with you. Also, eat before the hike and I would suggest some snacks in the car for when you return. In addition a change of socks and shoes. You will definitely get dirty. If you have an opportunity, check out the dunes and be please respect the wildlife in the area. Be Safe and enjoy the dunes! read more
10 years ago
This is definitely a must see! We drove in from the 40 freeway, and on the way to the dunes the granite hills are a few miles down the road. Then all of a sudden you just see these big hills of sand off in the distance. We had a blast. It definitely could be a little challenging if you're out of shape BUT once you get to where you want to be it's so quiet and peaceful. Sand does get everywhere but it's manageable. Pictures are so fun we captured some fun moments. The sunset was gorgeous. It's easy to find from either freeway. The road is a bit rough that takes you to the dunes from the main road. They have bathrooms in the parking lot (not the greatest smell). As for cell reception I think it depends on your provider. I definitely want to stop here again on our way to Vegas! read more
11 years ago
THE SOUNDS WE HEARD WAS LIKE NO OTHER! Me and The Crew headed out to the Mojave Desert for the weekend again and on our way back like last year, we stopped by the Kelso Depot Visitor Center on our way back home so those who missed out last year had a chance to check it out. The high point of this trip came after leaving the depot. Our adventure took place at Kelso Dunes, also known as the Kelso Dune Field, is the largest field of eolian sand deposits in the Mojave Desert. The region is protected by the Mojave National Preserve and is located near the town of Baker, San Bernardino County, California, and the Preserve Visitor Center. The dune field covers 45 square miles and includes migrating dunes, vegetation-stabilized dunes, sand sheets, and sand ramps. The tallest dunes rise up to 650 feet above the surrounding terrain. OUR ROUTE: The trail head is a mile or so of dirty, dusty road from the paved road. An easy to follow unmarked trail to the base of the dunes is a relatively flat with a mix of soft sand. The trek was a nice glute warm up for the 650' one step up three slides down glute burning dune. The 360 degree view from the crest of the dunes is breathtaking, both literally and figuratively. What goes up, must come down, and oh boy coming down the dunes was more fun than riding any roller coaster. Oh sure, if you have any fear of heights it can be intimidating, but once you get started racing down the hill, you'll realize there's nothing to be afraid of, it's only sand, no rocks and no bushes. The more speed behind the run, the more awesome. With every running step comes a roaring sound, a bellowing sound and it's just amazing. HOP SKIP AND A JUMP! What else is there to say? Running the dunes took us back to our childhood, a time when we did not know, nor understand the concept of fear. We were FREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!! WHEEEEE!!! read more
17 years ago
I went camping out in the Mojave this past weekend and we went to the Kelso Dunes, and the only thing I can say about it is that it is amazing. The hike from the parking spot to the bottom of the dunes was a little tricky (think soft beach sand for 1.7 miles), but the reward once we hiked to the top of the 600ft dune was kicking off our shoes and enjoying breathtaking view of the Mojave. It was very windy up there, if your ears bother you, I suggest a hat with a bandana stuck underneath to cover your ears. Also, wear something over your eyes, as flying sand is not fun. Also bring water and wear sunscreen.. We hiked it at around 3:30/4 pm and that was a perfect time to hike, we got to the top and came back down just as the sun was beginning to set. I can't imagine this hike being fun when it's any hotter than 70-75 degrees out, so its probably best to do it in Spring, Winter or Fall. pics here: http://www.maybeyoushouldsleep.com/photos/hikes/kelso-dunes/index.php read more
16 years ago
One of my all-time favorite hikes!!! About 2.5 hours from Vegas, these giant sand dunes are a TOTAL BLAST to hike! I went in April, when it was probably about 80 degrees out, and it was perfect. The dunes are pretty remote, down a long dirt road, so you don't run into too many other people out here. They don't allow sand rails and dune buggies out here, so you won't run into any testosterone-crazed rednecks, either. It took me about a solid hour to climb to the top of the biggest dune. What a workout! You know how hiking in sand is...one step forward, two steps back! But once you do make it to the top, the view is amazing! Major bonus: these are known as "Booming Dunes" that are composed of some weird silica that "sings" when you slide down them. The sand vibrates, kinda like a didgeridoo. Weird and cool, although not as loud and "boomy" as I had imagined. Still SUPER cool, though! Camping is permitted at the Kelso Dunes, though I've never done it. There are no bathrooms or running water, so it would be boondocking for sure. But there are plenty of shade trees and a BBQ pit...and I bet it's an awesomely quiet, relaxing spot. When you leave, you can go back the way you came and stop in Baker for lunch (Mad Greek...holla!) or you can take Nipton Rd. instead, for a change of scenery that takes you through a Joshua tree forest and past some weird pancake rock outcroppings. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!! read more
8 years ago
Our proposal was here at the Kelso Dunes trail entrance on NOV. 18. 2018, we had lost a very important earring around this area. It's a white skeleton about 3 inches long. If you had seen it on the ground or had picked it up PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE let me know it would mean the world to me to have it back. THANK YOU!!! read more
I found Kelso Dunes googling for local deserts. This place was perfect for my engagement photos. I was inspired by Beyoncé and Jay-z's on the run tour. The drive there from LA was about 3 hours total and 3 hours back. The parking was obvious (thank goodness). The hike to the base of the dunes was about a mile and took about 20 minutes. Considering I was in a gown and doc martins. It was an amazing spot and I never breathed in such fresh air. Definitely recommend for photo shoots or a good hike! read more
13 years ago
While approaching the dune, I was blown away by how big it was. The sight of it, and the site itself, is incredible. From the parking lot, the walk to the dune does not look lengthy, but small and easily conquerable. I was definitely wrong while 1/4th into the hike. This was pretty hard, especially with the sun beating down on my back and the sand clogging up my shoes. But we made it to the top of the dune in about an hour and 20 minutes. The sight from the top is breathtaking and it was great to just sit and take it all in. It's like you're on the top of the world LOL. It was also cool how the sand would "sing" as we slid down it. This made sledding down the dune more interesting. To be prepared for this arduous hike, I suggest bringing an umbrella, lots of water, shoes, sunscreen, a towel, and a camera. read more
17 years ago
The massive Kelso Dunes look deceivingly close to the parking area, but my 9-year old daughter and her friend asked to go back to the car once we walked to the base. Maybe it's about 1/3 to 1/2 mile. When I saw how small people on top of the dunes looked and how much more we had to see that day, I decided we'd climb them another time. From the bottom we took pictures and listened to the droning sound of sand sliding down the dunes. That's something you certainly can't experience every day. The temperature that November morning was a bit chilly around 10:00 AM, but it warmed up quickly. Be sure to bring water, sun screen and a camera. There are restrooms at the parking area. The dirt road from Kelso Road is well maintained, and there is plenty of parking available. read more
8 years ago
Worth stopping and camping. Beautiful place. Some places are worth coming back to more than once and I keep coming back to Kelso Dunes. Sand dunes! In So Cal! read more
14 years ago
12 years ago
Great hike, I would suggest leaving early in the morning so that you can beat the heat (otherwise it will be torture, so if your a glutton for torture go for it). This trail is not a cake walk and I enjoy a good workout so I ran up and down several of the inclines (had to get my HIIT in), but be careful not to tire yourself out too much before you begin climbing up the largest dune. There are several different mini hills along the way, and this is that fine powder sand so or every two steps you take, you lose one step. Also as you get closer to the tops of the peaks you will hear the booming sound of the dunes, and as you begin to ascend back down. Due to the sand being so fine and sinking in it as you get closer to the top I suggest doing a spider walk. It is so liberating to reach the top and it is definitely a breath taking view. Trust me this hike will give the best physically fit person a good workout, I felt like I did several Pilates workouts after. The walk back seems so long so make sure you chill out for a minute and enjoy the view at the top. It takes approximately 1 hour 30 - 45 mins to get to the highest peak on the dunes and it is approximately 2.8 miles or so. Oh sorry to disappoint but there is no Aladdin, Princess Jasmine or a Magic Carpet waiting up top to take you back down. Things to know: eat a breakfast before you go (you will easily burn it off) bring H20 (I suggest freezing it the night before), where sunblock, bug spray (the flies and bees love to follow you), bring a backpack to carry snacks, water, camera in, and do not forget your sun glasses. Where comfortable clothing: tee-shirt and yoga pants are great. If you have some UGGs they are great at preventing sand from getting in your shoes and very comfortable. There are tons of lizards running back and forth through the sand that are the same color as the sand so be careful where your foot lands. read more
6 years ago
11 years ago
Had so much fun here! Counted numerous lizards popping up from under the sand and even saw a turtle. We made it to the peak; it's totally worth it! Bring more water than you think because the route is deceptively long. read more
This was PHENOMENAL. For two people from the Northeast who haven't spent any time in the desert before, this was just amazing. It was very accessible by road but there were hardly any other people there - and only a few others had made it to the top. So be aware - this is no easy hike! As others have stated, the sand makes this a formidable trip - but absolutely worth it. It took us about an hour to get from the trailhead to the top, and I was dying (and I am a runner!). I timed it so that we would arrive there for the sunset and we made it early, so we had plenty of time to enjoy the incredible views, breath in the clean air, and listen to wind blow. We had the pinnacle to ourselves which was perfect. This was just a couple of weeks ago (early April) so the temps were in the perfect mid-sixties/low seventies range at the trailhead - but the wind at the top was intense and we had to keep moving to stay warm! When we walked back the almost-full moon gave us another incredible view of the desert and the surrounding hills. This was an experience I will never forget and would recommend to anyone who can handle the hike! read more
10 years ago
what a BEAUTIFUL landscape! soft, rolling dunes and a big blue sky are sure to bring a serene smile to your face :) remember folks -- water is a MUST and sunscreen is important as well. depending on how much you have in your pack and what kind of shape you're in, it could take you anywhere from 1-2.5 hrs to summit. your calves are in for an extreme workout, but it's well worth the burn! read more
10 years ago
11 years ago
It is an extremely heavy hike to make it to the top of the tall dune. I suggest getting in somewhat shape before attempting this. Just keep pushing through, do not give up! Take tiny breaks when you need to but make it up in time to see the sunset! Take a lightweight sled designed for the sand so you can slide back down the dune. I took a snow sled to slide back down the dune and it didn't work as well. Pack light, mostly essentials like food (sandwiches, chips, fruits, etc.) and a lot of water.. Try to make it out before night fall. When i went it was waxing crescent moon so it was pretty dark...except for a spectacular view of the stars. Take a flashlight. I'm used to hiking through thick forests, so hiking in the dessert with no trees, across sand dunes was something new and exciting for me and I think it is something we all should try at least once in our lives...well, for those with a thirst for adventure and a love of nature. :) very beautiful place, well kept and clean. read more
