- Region
- CA, USA
- Country
- United States
- Best for
- hiking
- Best season
- Spring, Summer
- Permits
- Confirm current permit requirements and tr…
- Managed by
- Bureau of Land Management, Barstow Field Office
Plan with verified data
Resting Spring Range Wilderness trip tools
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Photos of Resting Spring Range Wilderness
How to get there
Access the wilderness from State Highways 127 or 178. Confirm the appropriate approach and wilderness boundary with the BLM Barstow Field Office before setting out; highway access does not identify a specific trailhead. The office can be reached at 760-252-6000.
- State Highway 127
One of the highways used to access Resting Spring Range Wilderness. Use a wilderness boundary map and confirm the appropriate onward approach with the BLM.
- State Highway 178
An access highway for the wilderness. Confirm a suitable approach before leaving the highway rather than assuming there is a signed trailhead.
- Baxter Mine road corridor
A four-wheel-drive road in a non-wilderness corridor leads to the old Baxter Mine and separates a southern section of the wilderness. Confirm current vehicle access and remain aware of the surrounding wilderness boundary.
Sources: blm.gov · University of Montana / federal agency partners · Wilderness Connect / federal wilderness boundary inventory. Confirm road and trailhead conditions with the managing agency before you leave.
CA, USA · United States
- Mountaineering
- Desert Hiking
- Canyoneering
- Hiking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Canoeing
- Fishing
- Photography
A rugged desert range east of Death Valley
Resting Spring Range Wilderness lies between Death Valley National Park and the Nevada state line, with the Amargosa River valley along its western side. Broad bajadas rise through rolling hills toward a north–south spine of coarse rock, jagged summits, and deep, hidden canyons. Elevations range from 2,040 feet to 5,264 feet at Stewart Peak. The terrain changes in both shape and color: subdued browns and tans give way in places to pink, red, green, and black rock. Eagle Mountain stands abruptly above the river valley in the wilderness’s northwest corner. This is a destination for reading terrain rather than following a marked path. Hiking, photography, camping, and wildlife watching are among the activities here, but the rugged relief calls for plans matched to navigation skills and available daylight.
Plan for cross-country travel
There are no trails in Resting Spring Range Wilderness. A hike here requires choosing a line across the landscape and evaluating it as conditions change, rather than relying on a maintained tread or signed junctions. Broad lower slopes, rolling hills, and the rugged central spine present different levels of commitment; jagged rock and hidden canyons make a destination on a map only part of the planning task. Carry navigation tools that work without a connection, bring sufficient water for the outing, and leave room to turn back. A four-wheel-drive road occupies a non-wilderness corridor leading to the old Baxter Mine and separates a southern section from the rest of the area. Keep that corridor distinct from the surrounding wilderness when planning vehicle access, and confirm current access details with the BLM.
Wildlife and a self-sufficient visit
Sparse vegetation on the valley floor leaves the surrounding rock formations prominent, especially the colorful sides of Eagle Mountain. Desert bighorn sheep, wild horses, and wild burros share this landscape, while golden eagles and prairie falcons are among the raptors that may be seen overhead. Watch animals from a distance and avoid approaching them for photographs. Open desert terrain also makes sun protection and a conservative water plan important; do not build an outing around finding water along the way. Pets are allowed but must remain under control. Horses are permitted, though carrying feed may be required. Before bringing stock or planning a longer stay, contact the BLM Barstow Field Office to confirm applicable requirements. Choose an outing that leaves enough time and energy for the cross-country return.
Where on earth
Satellite imagery flying in from a world view to Resting Spring Range Wilderness, United States. Use the + / − buttons, or click the map to zoom with your scroll wheel; drag to pan and pinch to zoom on touch.
Coordinates
- Decimal degrees
- 36.1918, -116.2511
- Latitude (DMS)
- 36° 11′ 30.4″ N
- Longitude (DMS)
- 116° 15′ 3.9″ W
Coordinates are an access-point reference for Resting Spring Range Wilderness, not a route. Carry a paper map and confirm trailhead or put-in access with the managing agency before you go.
Topic summary
Between Death Valley National Park and the Nevada state line, the Resting Spring Range sweeps up from vast bajadas across rolling hills to a picturesque north-south spine--a line of extremely coarse and...
Key takeaways
- Region: CA, USA
- Country: United States
- Good for: hiking
- Coordinates: 36.192, -116.251
Intended uses
hiking
Keep planning
Popular pursuits at Resting Spring Range Wilderness
- Mountaineering
Glacier and high-route objectives with real consequence.
- Desert Hiking
Water carries and heat management drive the plan.
- Canyoneering
Narrows, downclimbs, and flash-flood timing.
- Hiking
Day miles on marked trail, with route notes and trail links below.
- Wildlife Viewing
Best light, best season, and where animals move.
- Canoeing
Paddle routes, portages, and put-ins.
Animals around Resting Spring Range Wilderness
A rugged desert range east of Death Valley
Resting Spring Range Wilderness lies between Death Valley National Park and the Nevada state line, with the Amargosa River valley along its western side. Broad bajadas rise through rolling hills toward a north–south spine of coarse rock, jagged summits, and deep, hidden canyons. Elevations range from 2,040 feet to 5,264 feet at Stewart Peak. The terrain changes in both shape and color: subdued browns and tans give way in places to pink, red, green, and black rock. Eagle Mountain stands abruptly above the river valley in the wilderness’s northwest corner. This is a destination for reading terrain rather than following a marked path. Hiking, photography, camping, and wildlife watching are among the activities here, but the rugged relief calls for plans matched to navigation skills and available daylight.
Plan for cross-country travel
There are no trails in Resting Spring Range Wilderness. A hike here requires choosing a line across the landscape and evaluating it as conditions change, rather than relying on a maintained tread or signed junctions. Broad lower slopes, rolling hills, and the rugged central spine present different levels of commitment; jagged rock and hidden canyons make a destination on a map only part of the planning task. Carry navigation tools that work without a connection, bring sufficient water for the outing, and leave room to turn back. A four-wheel-drive road occupies a non-wilderness corridor leading to the old Baxter Mine and separates a southern section from the rest of the area. Keep that corridor distinct from the surrounding wilderness when planning vehicle access, and confirm current access details with the BLM.
Wildlife and a self-sufficient visit
Sparse vegetation on the valley floor leaves the surrounding rock formations prominent, especially the colorful sides of Eagle Mountain. Desert bighorn sheep, wild horses, and wild burros share this landscape, while golden eagles and prairie falcons are among the raptors that may be seen overhead. Watch animals from a distance and avoid approaching them for photographs. Open desert terrain also makes sun protection and a conservative water plan important; do not build an outing around finding water along the way. Pets are allowed but must remain under control. Horses are permitted, though carrying feed may be required. Before bringing stock or planning a longer stay, contact the BLM Barstow Field Office to confirm applicable requirements. Choose an outing that leaves enough time and energy for the cross-country return.
Route options
- Eagle Mountain area
A cross-country planning objective in the northwest corner, where Eagle Mountain rises abruptly above the Amargosa River valley. Its colorful slopes offer a focus for photography and terrain exploration. This is not an established trail or a documented summit route; select an approach using detailed mapping and on-the-ground judgment.
- Stewart Peak area
Stewart Peak is the wilderness high point at 5,264 feet. Treat it as a terrain objective rather than a defined hiking route: the range has no trails, and its rugged rock spine and hidden canyons require careful route assessment. Establish a viable approach and return before committing to higher ground.
Sample itineraries
- Bajada and Foothill Day Hike · 1 day
Approach Resting Spring Range Wilderness from State Highway 127 or 178 after confirming a suitable entry with BLM. Plan a self-directed out-and-back across bajadas and rolling foothills. There are no trails; choose terrain within your navigation skills rather than committing to the rugged spine.
- Two-Day Landscape and Wildlife Trip · 2 days
Combine a foothill hike with an overnight camp, then spend the second day photographing the range's colored rock and watching for raptors. Confirm access and camping requirements with BLM before departure. Select your own route and camp using terrain and boundary maps; this is not an established trail itinerary.
Seasonal conditions
Spring
Spring; use current forecasts to choose travel days.
For this sparsely vegetated desert range, carry drinking water and sun protection even when temperatures feel moderate. Match hiking effort to the forecast and allow extra time for trail-free navigation.
Summer
Summer; avoid strenuous travel during hot conditions.
Open bajadas and sparse vegetation offer little dependable shade. Desert heat makes conservative turnaround decisions and sufficient carried water especially important. Shorten or postpone hikes when conditions exceed your preparation.
Fall
Fall; assess the forecast before committing to an overnight.
Do not assume a fall trip will be cool. Carry sun protection and layers, and plan water needs for the entire outing. Rugged terrain and the absence of trails remain key planning constraints.
Winter
Winter; check forecasts for your intended elevation.
Elevations range from 2,040 feet to Stewart Peak at 5,264 feet. Prepare for cold conditions with insulating layers and overnight gear suited to the forecast; do not judge higher terrain solely by conditions at your vehicle.
| Season | Window | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Spring; use current forecasts to choose travel days. | For this sparsely vegetated desert range, carry drinking water and sun protection even when temperatures feel moderate. Match hiking effort to the forecast and allow extra time for trail-free navigation. |
| Summer | Summer; avoid strenuous travel during hot conditions. | Open bajadas and sparse vegetation offer little dependable shade. Desert heat makes conservative turnaround decisions and sufficient carried water especially important. Shorten or postpone hikes when conditions exceed your preparation. |
| Fall | Fall; assess the forecast before committing to an overnight. | Do not assume a fall trip will be cool. Carry sun protection and layers, and plan water needs for the entire outing. Rugged terrain and the absence of trails remain key planning constraints. |
| Winter | Winter; check forecasts for your intended elevation. | Elevations range from 2,040 feet to Stewart Peak at 5,264 feet. Prepare for cold conditions with insulating layers and overnight gear suited to the forecast; do not judge higher terrain solely by conditions at your vehicle. |
Permits, fees & closures
Confirm current permit requirements and trip rules with the BLM Barstow Field Office at 760-252-6000.
Official source: Resting Spring Range Wilderness - Bureau of Land Management · Verified November 3, 2026
Hazards & regulations
- There are no trails. Carry navigation tools and know how to use them before attempting a self-directed route.
- Extremely coarse, rugged rock, jagged summits, and deep canyons can make progress difficult. Avoid terrain that exceeds your ability to retreat safely.
- Sparse desert vegetation provides limited shade. Carry sufficient drinking water and adjust plans to heat and exposure.
- Desert bighorn sheep, wild horses, and wild burros need space. Observe without approaching, and keep pets under control.
What to pack for Resting Spring Range Wilderness
- Topographic map showing wilderness boundaries
- Compass and the skills to use it
- Offline navigation device with backup power
- Drinking water for the entire outing
- Sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
- Sun-protective clothing
- Insulating layers appropriate to the forecast
- Sturdy footwear for coarse rock
- First-aid kit
- Headlamp
- Shelter and sleep system suited to forecast conditions
- Bags for packing out waste
Resting Spring Range Wilderness FAQ
- Where is Resting Spring Range Wilderness?
- It lies in California between Death Valley National Park and the Nevada state line. The Amargosa River valley lies to the west, and Eagle Mountain rises from the valley in the wilderness's northwest corner.
- How do you reach the wilderness?
- Access is from State Highways 127 or 178. Confirm a suitable entry and current approach conditions with the BLM Barstow Field Office before driving out.
- Are there marked hiking trails?
- There are no trails. Expect self-directed travel across bajadas, rolling hills, and rugged mountain terrain. Stewart Peak reaches 5,264 feet, but its elevation does not establish a hiking route or imply an easy ascent.
- Can you drive through the wilderness?
- Motor vehicles and mechanical transport are generally prohibited within wilderness. A non-wilderness four-wheel-drive road corridor leading to the old Baxter Mine separates a southern section. Check mapped boundaries and approach conditions rather than treating that corridor as general vehicle access.
- Are camping, pets, and horses allowed?
- BLM lists camping and horseback riding among the area's activities. Pets are allowed but must remain under control. Horses are permitted, though carrying feed may be required. Confirm applicable trip requirements with BLM.
- What is worth looking for beyond the summits?
- The range's rocks include pink, red, green, and black tones among browns and tans. Eagle Mountain contrasts with the sparsely vegetated valley floor. Watch overhead for golden eagles and prairie falcons, and observe larger animals from a distance.