I would like to see if anyone has any routes that would maximize the dirt time between San Diego and Phoenix. Any help would be appreciated.
I've only slabbed that route a few times, but there is dirt to be had. Last time headed west I got off I-8 at Campo and took 94 into SD. I'm sure there has to be a good dirt route east of Campo. And once you get near the Imperial Sand Dunes, it's dirt paradise. I haven't done it yet and I believe you need a permit for it. But it's on my list. Once you get near Gila Bend at I-8, you are very close to some amazing dirt in the Sonoran National Monument. Lots of trails there, probably mapped on some BLM site.
Some of our guys are mapping out a ride from the waters of the Pacific (as in Pacific Beach) to the waters of the CO. River incorporating as much dirt as possible....Here's a link to their first attempt at mapping it out last Spring: http://www.dualsport-sd.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=2407 They'll be running it again sometime this fall/winter.....
I'd love to get in on this... but I think my GSA may be a little to much for all the soft sand riding...
Mine was acting like an ostrich this morning. ...As in 'burying its head in the sand...' Keep me out of the deep stuff and I'm OK. M
The Bradshaw Trail is one route that can lead to others. You can run dirt from Coachella to Wiley Springs, at least, or you used to be able to. Decide whether you want to cross at 10, 8 or Parker. If you need GPS to get there, I would not recommend going.
I am in the process of building my DRZ SuMo into a decent DS toy. When are going to do this? It will light a fire underme so I can go...
Using a map is nice, and it is something I am good at (being a former ground pounder and all) But if someone has a GPS trail alrady laid, that makes the adventure a little less daunting. I typically keep one in a backpack right next to the SPOT, just in case.
