Kelso Dunes — Local services in Baker

The first time I hiked up the kelso dunes was after a job I had to attend to in Las Vegas, not being a Vegas fan I got out of there asap, and wanted to hike so I hit up the kelso dunes, they sounded amazing. It was 102° that day and I had a bunch of water with me, I went for it and hiked to the top, there were times that I was praying to god I wouldn’t pass out and fall down the side lol, it was so damn hard, slow and steady deep breathing and drinking lots of water. I eventually made it to the top and it was just awesome and worth it, it felt so good to sit up there and look around so far on that clear day, contemplating and soaking it all in.

The second time was about 10 years later, I arrived at 7am with a snowboard, as I’m getting my pack ready this guy pulls up in his car and drags some skis out! We say hi and talk about plans for a second then get on with gear change time, his girlfriend joined him and we all hiked up. This time it was much cooler out but still pretty damn difficult hiking up those giant dunes. Made it to the top no problem and chilled out relaxing for a moment then it was time to ride! The rides down were short, on the snowboard you really had to lean back super ultra hard to get going then surf it down like the stickiest powder you had ever tried to ride. Super good exercise and fun riding in the summer, I try to do it once a...

Kelso Sand Dunes is located inside the Mojave National Preserve, approximately 15 miles North of the I-40 East. If heading northbound into the Mojave, Kelso Dunes will be located on your left hand side, if heading southbound towards I-40, it will be on the right. The road into the dunes is ~3 miles, at the end of the road there will be an area to park your vehicle as well as basic toilet facilities.

ProTip #1 - Make sure your vehicle will be able to handle minor off-roading, a high clearance vehicle is not necessary, but good tires are! ProTip #2 - Make sure to get necessary navigation before heading into the Mojave, as GPS is wildly unreliable and reception is practically nonexistent. ProTip #3 - As you walk towards the Sand Dunes, be wary of...

These dunes are beautiful. Truly a hidden gem in the Mojave Desert. The entrance is off Kelbaker Road and it’s very rutted so take it easy. Once you arrive at the parking area you’ll see displays with information about the geology of the dunes and pit restrooms. We visited in the fall and the weather was in the high 70’s which was very confortable. Keep in mind that walking on sand is difficult and may be strenuous for some, even with weather cooperating. Pace yourself and you’ll make it to the top. Wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water (1 gallon per person, per day recommended). Bring snacks because you’ll burn plenty of energy. Pack out your trash and leave it cleaner than...