Goler Wash/ Mengel Pass, California

Camp nearby in the ghost town of Ballarat. Along the trail, see mines and outstanding Adopt-a-Cabins including Barker Ranch, once the hideout of serial killer Charles Manson and his gang. Other cabins include Russel Camp (our favorite) and the Geologist’s Cabin, popular because it is very tight and clean. The other cabins are mice infested and are posted with danger signs explaining the deadly Hantavirus, which is spread by inhaling dust from mice droppings.

Rating
Difficult. Most of this trail is easy to moderate. Only one short stretch over Mengel Pass is difficult. Under normal circumstances, high-clearance 4x4 SUVs can reach this point without a problem. Those with skid plates should also be able to get over Mengel Pass but some caution must be taken to avoid undercarriage damage. Some rock stacking may be necessary. In addition, there is always the possibility that a flash flood through Goler Wash could make it more difficult. This trail is extremely remote. Street-legal vehicles only inside Death Valley National Park.

This trail is featured in this book:
(Along with 74 other trails.)

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