Elephant Tusk Trail

Elephant Tusk Trail is a 2.86-mile point-to-point connector from the trailhead across Black Gap Road from the EL-1 roadside campsite to its junction with the upper Dodson Trail. The distance is one way; getting back to EL-1 means retracing the route for about 5.7 miles round trip. This is a link for a longer desert itinerary, not a summit climb: the separate Elephant Tusk Mountain ascent is not part of this route.

The mapped path is unpaved and rises about 1,000 feet from the trailhead to Dodson. At the access, the tread is loose rock and gravel through low scrub. Allow roughly 2½ hours one way for the climb, with more time if you are carrying a full pack. There is no loop or alternate return to the starting vehicle; the route ends at Dodson, where any onward walking belongs to a separate itinerary.

The trailhead is across the road from EL-1, a primitive campsite about three hours from paved road. The southern approach via River Road is the recommended access; high clearance is required, and rain can make that road impassable. The northern Black Gap approach is extremely rough and requires a rugged 4x4. EL-1 has room for one vehicle up to 25 feet and six people, with no trailers, toilets, shade or other amenities. No dependable water source is documented along the route, so carry what you need. An overnight stay at EL-1 or other backcountry camping requires a permit. Pets are not allowed on park trails.