Mojave Desert Joshua Tree Road Scenic Backway

The Mojave Desert Joshua Tree Road Scenic Backway received official designation in 1990. The route resides in the extreme southwestern corner of Utah within the Mojave Desert and offers an alternative north-south route to Old Highway 91. The Backway traverses 18.9 miles through the Beaver Dam Mountains by way of Bulldog Pass and Bulldog Canyon. The Backway delivers remarkable views of the rugged Beaver Dam Mountains and Beaver Dam Mountains Wilderness. At its southern end the Backway passes through the Beaver Dam Wash National Conservation Area (NCA) as well as the Woodbury Desert Study Area. Wildland fires have left their mark on the landscape, but pockets of Joshua trees and native vegetation unique to the Mojave Desert can be observed along the route.

Dispersed camping is permitted on BLM lands bordering the Backway. Camping within the Beaver Dam Wash NCA is limited to 39 numbered campsites with a metal fire ring. Sites are first-come, first-serve and occupancy is limited to 14 days in a 28 day period. It is your responsibility to adhere to current fire restrictions. Campfires are permitted in steel fire rings only. Never leave a campfire unattended and make sure it’s DEAD OUT before leaving.

The Backway often requires high-clearance vehicles. The road receives intermittent maintenance and may become impassable during periods of heavy precipitation. No services are available along the Backway.