Kimberly Weglin

There is no particular route to the top of Kelso Dunes from the trailhead – the wind is constantly moving the sands (and trail) around. Instead, follow the footsteps in the sand, avoid the vegetation, and aim for the tallest peak. It is pretty hard to get lost as you can see the parking lot from just about any high mound of sand. You will cross many smaller sand dunes before reaching the base ...

Dumont Dunes is an Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) area administered by the Bureau of Land Management as a recreational area for off-road vehicle sports, hiking, camping, rock climbing, and rock collecting. While most people come here to ride ATVs across the dunes, we opted to take a hike up the dunes instead (just keep an eye out for OHV riders). There are approximately 8,150 acres of open area. The...

At the bend in the road on Highway 128, you will pass two silver gates. The gate with the UC Davis logo is the entrance to the trailhead. Past the entrance there is a large dirt pullout off the road with plenty of parking. Starting at the trailhead, go left in the fork to start the loop trail. The first mile is fairly easy and brings you to the Old Homestead. After this, the hike becomes a lot...