ABOUT CHINA RANCH DATE FARM: Located in a dramatic canyon, this desert oasis has been an agricultural center for over a century. China Ranch is a family owned and operated small farm, located in a lush piece of greenery amidst the forbidding Mojave Desert. Imagine towering date palms and abundant wildlife, all hidden away in some of the spectacular scenery in the Mojave. Following our hike, we can stop by the ranch store for home grown dates, as well as date nut bread, muffins, cookies, shakes and handcrafted gifts.
ABOUT THE HIKE:
From China Ranch, we will be taking a four mile hike with about 350 feet of elevation gain/loss on the mostly single track Slot Canyon Trail. The trail passes the historical saloon building, an ore loading site on the Tonopah and Tidewater railroad (1905-1938), crosses the Amargosa River, and dead ends into a slot canyon. This is an out/back route.
Following a post hike visit to the ranch store, we can take the Creek Trail, a 200 yard stroll down a nature trail that follows the China Ranch Creek through thick native vegetation. Three tables for picnicking are located along the path. The stream contains frogs, crayfish, and speckled dace, a rare native fish.
More about the China Ranch Date Farm can be found here:
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OPTIONAL STOP AT THE TECOPA HOT SPRINGS RESORT: Returning from China Ranch on the Old Spanish Trail Road, we can stop by the resort for a relaxing soak in the hot springs, fine food in the Pastels Bistro and local art in the Tecopa Basin Art Gallery. Reservations required 760/852-4420.
More about the Tecopa Hot Spring Resort can be found here:
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DRIVING DIRECTIONS: From Shoshone, we take Highway 127 south about five miles... turn left on Hot Springs Road... turn left on Old Spanish Trail Highway... turn right on Furnace Creek Road... turn right on China Ranch Road (1.5 mile improved dirt road) follow signs to the ranch. Drive time from Shoshone to the Ranch is approximately 30 minutes.
