Last Updated on 2 March, 2026 by Robyn Dockendorf

Imagine trekking through a dunefield surrounded by rugged mountain peaks and sweeping volcanic vistas. Skittering fringe-toed lizards and desert tortoises leave prints in the sand, immersing you in a surreal desert landscape.

Welcome to the Kelso Dunes Trail! This remarkable hike involves a 3-mile round-trip out-and-back hike that gains 600 feet in elevation to the 3,074-foot summit of Kelso Dune. It’s located in the beautiful Mojave National Preserve in Southern California.

In this article, I’ll cover all the details you need to conquer this peak and provide information on what to expect on your adventure.

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Kelso Dunes Trail: Where To Park

The Kelso Dunes trailhead parking lot is medium-sized and on solid gravel. Many people come here only to take pictures and then leave, so the parking lot never got full when we were there, even later into the morning and early afternoon.

In fact, few people made it to the summit of the dune when we were there, despite seeing many people on the trail. If you’re worried about being crowded on the summit, don’t be. You will likely be the only one up there!

The trailhead for the Kelso Dunes Trail is in the southwest corner of the Mojave National Preserve off Kelso Dunes Road. Note that Kelso Dunes Road is 2WD accessible, but be prepared for some washboards!

• GPS (Kelso Dunes Trail Parking Lot): N34.8923, W115.6991

Before you hit the trail, check out our day hiking gear list to ensure you have everything you need to conquer the trail!

Kelso Dunes Trail: What To Expect

Before hiking the Kelso Dunes Trail, we had already experienced a few dunes: Great Sand Dunes in Colorado, Indiana Sand Dunes, and White Sands National Park. However, each dune is different, and there is a huge difference between hiking on sand and hiking on a regular dirt trail.

According to the University of Michigan, walking on uneven terrain (like sand) requires 28% more energy output than walking on flat terrain. If you’ve never hiked in sand before, just be aware that it’s a little tougher than walking on dirt. Imagine that deep, soft sand you experience at the beach, but on an incline and at elevation (fun, right?!).

By the way, if you’re thinking about heading to Great Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado, check out our guide on the 10 adventurous things to do at Great Sand Dunes!

Now, let’s dig into the details of what you can expect on the Kelso Dunes Trail.

Sun Exposure

There is no shade on the Kelso Dunes Trail. I highly recommend bringing a sun hat and sunscreen, and wearing long pants and a light long sleeve.

We like using mineral sunscreen like Badger Mineral Sunscreen because it doesn’t contain any harsh chemicals that can affect wildlife. We also love the Sahara Shade Hoodie from REI. It’s light enough to wear in the hot desert climate, but it keeps your skin protected from the sun.

In addition to wearing the proper protection, getting an early morning start has its advantages. The weather is cooler, the sun’s rays aren’t as direct, and you get the trail to yourself!

Water

There is no water at the Kelso Dunes Trail, so remember to bring all the water you’ll need for your hike. 

Despite being a short 3-mile hike, it’s recommended to drink around 32 ounces of water per hour of hiking. When temperatures are higher, you should drink more to replace the water lost to sweating.

We love the Nalgene Ultralite Wide Mouth Water Bottle because it’s super lightweight – only 3.5 ounces! – and it holds 32 ounces of water.

Hiking In Sand

I touched on this before, but it’s worth repeating. Hiking in sand is very different than hiking on solid ground. If you normally take 20 minutes to hike 1 mile, plan on 30 minutes instead.

Despite the trail consisting of sand, you should not wear sandals for this hike. The sand can reach scalding temperatures, even if the air is cool. Wear your normal hiking shoes with a pair of high socks to avoid getting too much sand in your shoes.

Kelso Dunes is a fantastic area for dispersed camping as well! It’s the perfect base camp while you explore the dunes and the rest of the Preserve. Check out our article on the 13 amazing places to camp in Mojave National Preserve for more information!

The Kelso Dunes Trail Isn’t A Trail

Most hiking trails are easy to follow with a defined path or trail markers. The Kelso Dunes Trail isn’t marked at all. The beginning of the trail is easy to follow because you can see footprints and where there is a lack of vegetation.

However, towards the summit of the dunes, there is no defined trail. There’s no ‘wrong’ way to summit the dune, but just note that you’ll have to find your own path at the top. 

Most hikers walk the ridges leading up to the summit, and then hike to the right of Kelso Dune (if looking at the dune) and finally reach the summit by climbing the right-hand ridge.

Taking Pets On Kelso Dunes

If you’re anything like us, you bring your furbags along for all your adventures. If that’s the case, you may be wondering if the Kelso Dunes are dog-friendly. Yes, they are! Dogs are allowed on the Kelso Dunes.

Dogs must be leashed, which helps protect your dog, wildlife, and other dogs who are sharing the trail (remember, not all dogs are friendly!). Keep an eye on the weather and do not attempt Kelso Dunes with your dog if temperatures are too high, as the sand can scald their paws.

Head over to our article on dog hiking gear essentials to make sure your pup has everything they need for a safe and successful hike.

Wrapping Up The Kelso Dunes Trail

The Kelso Dunes Trail is a magnificent hike in the Mojave National Preserve. At 3 miles, this hike is well-suited for most skill levels, though the elevation gain and hiking in sand make it a bit of a challenge.

Some things to take into consideration for the Kelso Dunes Trail include:

• Sun exposure: the hike is completely exposed to the sun, so bring some protection!
• Water: Bring plenty of water, as none is available at the trailhead.
• Sand: Hiking in sand is more difficult than in normal terrain.
• Trail: Kelso Dunes has no established trail, but there are usually footprints to follow to help guide you, and the summit is very obvious from the parking lot.
• Pets: Pets are allowed on the Kelso Dunes Trail, but ensure they are properly prepared and bring plenty of water. Do not attempt the Kelso Dunes Trail with your pet in the summer. 

Looking for other things to do in the Preserve? Check out our list of 7 thrilling things to do in Mojave National Preserve. Until next time, give your furbags an extra pet from us, and enjoy your adventures!