Kelso Dunes in Mojave National Preserve, CA

Hike Kelso Dunes Mojave National Preserve, CA

Class 1 3.1 miles 600 gain 1-2 hr Loop Jan 25, 2016
Effort
Beauty
Personality
Solitude

Kelso Dunes GPX Track

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Running down the dunes is a blast. Many people don't seem to make it that far, and you'll notice the trail getting narrower due to fewer travelers the farther up you go. At the fork, keep right since you'll be returning from the left (after running fown the dune). Follow the right trail to the saddle of the two big dunes and turn left along the ridge to the top. It's encouraged (according to the NPS) to run down the center of the largest dune, and after a slog through the sand, the fun is welcomed.

PEAKS ON HIKE
Elevation (ft) / Prominence (ft)
Peaks on hike
Elevation
Prominence
1
Kelso Dunes High Point
3114 ft
539 rise

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The start to the Kelso Dunes trail.
The start to the Kelso Dunes trail.
Looking to the south, you can see Silver Peak (left).
Looking to the south, you can see Silver Peak (left).
Image 2 from gallery
The sand makes it a bit more difficult, but getting to the top is definitely worth it.
The sand makes it a bit more difficult, but getting to the top is definitely worth it.
Image 4 from gallery
The last quarter mile gets fairly steep.
The last quarter mile gets fairly steep.
Image 6 from gallery
Follow the edge of the dune to the top.
Follow the edge of the dune to the top.
Image 8 from gallery
Looking south toward the trailhead.
Looking south toward the trailhead.
Looking north into Mojave National Preserve.
Looking north into Mojave National Preserve.
Northern view.
Northern view.
Looking up at the top from halfway down the fun section. Just run down, falling adds to the fun. It probably also looks ridiculous from far away.
Looking up at the top from halfway down the fun section. Just run down, falling adds to the fun. It probably also looks ridiculous from far away.

Hire me or show me some love!

Hire/refer me as a web developer or send me a few bucks if you find my site useful. I’m not sponsored, so all fees are out-of-pocket and my time preparing trip reports is unpaid. I really appreciate it!