The best running trails around Barstow

There are 3 dedicated running routes around Barstow featured in this guide, offering a mix of moderate and difficult options for exploring the unique Mojave Desert landscape.

While this guide focuses on moderate to difficult trails, the Barstow area, particularly the Great River Trail along the Mojave Riverwalk, offers scenic and relatively flat paths suitable for easier jogs. The broader Mojave Desert also provides expansive, less technical terrain for those new to trail running.

For a more challenging run, consider the Campbell Island Bridge loop from Hampton. This difficult 11.8-mile (19.0 km) path offers an extended challenge with diverse scenery. Additionally, the Rainbow Basin Natural Area, about 15 miles north of Barstow, features trails like the "Owl Canyon to Rainbow Basin Canyon" route, known for its significant elevation changes over 8 miles.

Absolutely. The region is rich in unique geological formations. The Rainbow Basin Natural Area, with its vibrant sedimentary rock layers and canyons, offers stunning backdrops for a run. The Calico Mountains also provide trails with breathtaking views and interesting rock formations. Even the Running loop from East Moline offers varied terrain that showcases the desert landscape.

Yes, several routes in the area are designed as loops. For instance, the Le Claire Canal loop from Le Claire is an 8.8-mile (14.2 km) trail that leads through varied landscapes, providing a complete circular experience. The Campbell Island Bridge loop from Hampton is another excellent circular option for a longer, more challenging run.

The fall, early winter, and late spring are generally the best times for jogging in Barstow. During these seasons, temperatures are more moderate, making for a more comfortable experience in the Mojave Desert. Summer can be extremely hot, so early morning or late evening runs are recommended if jogging during those months.

While specific 'family-friendly' designations aren't always given for trail runs, the Mojave Riverwalk offers a scenic and generally flat path suitable for families. For those looking for a mix of history and outdoor activity, the areas around Calico Ghost Town also provide trails that can be enjoyed by families, particularly in cooler months.

Running trails around Barstow primarily feature natural, unpaved terrain, offering an authentic desert running experience. You'll encounter a variety of surfaces, from narrow singletracks to wider doubletracks, with options for different distances and elevations. The landscape is characterized by desert vistas, unique geological formations, and occasional riverine paths.

Yes, the Barstow area offers several points of interest. While jogging, you might encounter the Hampton Village Hall and Soldiers Memorial or the natural beauty of Pigeon Creek Park. The Mojave Riverwalk itself offers views of the river and local wildlife. For a historical detour, the Calico Ghost Town area provides trails amidst a historic mining landscape.

Runners often praise the unique beauty of the Mojave Desert landscape, the variety of terrains available, and the opportunity to explore vast, open spaces. The scenic nature of trails like the Mojave Riverwalk and the geological wonders of areas such as Rainbow Basin make each run an exploratory experience, offering visually stimulating and ever-changing scenery.

For long-distance running, the Campbell Island Bridge loop from Hampton is a significant 11.8-mile (19.0 km) route. Additionally, the Mojave National Preserve, though about 60 miles east, offers extensive opportunities for longer, more challenging jogs across its 1.6 million acres, including sand dunes, mountains, and canyons.

When jogging in the Mojave Desert, it's crucial to stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. Plan your runs for cooler parts of the day (early morning or late evening) to avoid extreme heat. Be aware of your surroundings, as the desert environment can be rugged. Always carry enough water and inform someone of your route.