California City, Ghost Town

I was fortunate to meet some friends who were enthusiastic about riding off-road vehicles as I was. These friends have been riding dirt bikes since they were little, and it was more of a way of life for them than it was a hobby. Their grandfather's ashes have been layed out on a special mountain there, where they visit time to time in memory of him. So, as you can see, it was not just a mere riding destination for them, but a significant place where they knew their grandfather was keeping an eye out on them. It was a place for remembrance, reflection and a new beginning every time we came across that special place.

There isn't much to this place when you first arrive. From afar, all you can see is just rolling hills and mountains. The vegetation that grows are just dense Joshua trees and creosote bushes spreading out like mines scattered on a battle field. Located North of Antelope Valley, CA in the Mojave Desert, nothing but the best "legal" riding location can be found. Click Here: California City Map

The nice aspect of this location gives any level rider a challenge. There are steep mountains, flat rolling lands, tracks and various obstacles available for any enthusiast. This location, noted as a legal riding area by the state, allows all forms of off-road vehicles. There are no restrictions as of January 1, 2008 and both "green sticker" and "red sticker" vehicles are welcome as riding season is labeled 'year' round. (OHV.Parks.Gov) Riding Season There are several locations to park and ride, as it may be confusing to know where you can go since it is the open desert. Anyone can park in the open land, but if you looking for a location where help is near by, bathrooms are available and people are in existence, than several landmarks can be located on a camp site map.

Californica City has two main attractions throughout the desert. If you are a first-timer and have no idea where to go, then these destinations are for you. California City is known for their security desert prison. All riding trails circle the jail house, but riders must beware not to get too close. Security is high around the prison, so as long as you keep a distance, it is fun to ride around and see one of California's prisons. California City Prison

Another attraction is the tortoise reserve. There is a trailer that is staffed throughout the day in an enclosed area of the desert that displays information about tortoises. You can learn tortoise awareness and the history of them as you walk through to find tortoises in their natural habitat.

Now, if you are an advanced rider, and don't think trail riding is appeasing, you should check out California City's best MX park. Cal City MX Park Tracks This area hosts several tracks for racing, practicing and just putting around. For a very low cost fee, many riders enjoy these tracks because many are not available in the State of California.

By personal preference, a must see and ride, is the ghost town in Johannesburg. A once, small town has now become one of the largest gathering spots for offroad vehicle enthusiasts. You can catch, literally, hundreds of riders that vacation during the holiday season to catch a glimpse of history. The best part about it; the only bar in sight miles from the next major town! GhostTown

Many popular riding destinations can be found through the internet. The best places to go are usually places where others have already been to, just to get familiar with the location. A rider must be aware of possible dangers that lurk in any OHV riding area. Mines, animals, reckless riders and any other possible dangers can be avoided and prevented by learning and researching the area you are in. California City is by far one of the best riding destinations around because you get a true sense of natural environment without the hassles of developing homes coming up in the area. Besides the fact, California City's desert has hot showers you can use after a long day of riding, an amenity not available in most places. These qualities makes California City an escape to the best riding locations around California.