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We’ve always driven down the I-15 and wondered where the Zzyzx Road exit goes. Well, we were traveling to Las Vegas and decided to find out.
We discovered some interesting things along the way, including a tarantula and dried salt lakes. It ultimately led us to a deserted oasis with a rich history.
I’ll tell you about our experience, what to know and expect, and share photos from our adventure. You might want to check it out too!
Getting There
We took the I-15 North from California. It took us a while to reach the area, which is exit 244.
After exiting, we came across the sign that said, “Entering Mojave National Preserve. Not a through route. No off road access. No camping along road.”
So we drove down the paved road, which turned into gravel and dirt. But we had to stop suddenly.
Mojave Desert Tarantulas
Would you believe we saw a tarantula crossing the road? So, we stopped to take pictures and videos of it.
We definitely weren’t going to get too close. Then we saw another one down the road that had been run over.
Passing by Salt Lakes
As we traveled further down the road, we saw mountains in the distance. The landscape was as pretty as a painted picture.
The sun rose high over the blended hues of blue, brown, and green. We went during the winter holidays, so it was a pleasant day and perfect for exploring the desert.
We passed the dried-up salt lakes with barriers blocking the way. You are not allowed to walk or drive on the evaporated lakes.
Exploring Soda Springs
After driving about 5 miles, we came to a row of trees and a sign that read Welcome Soda Springs: Home of the CSU Desert Studies Center. Walk-in access during daylight hours only.
We came across a gate blocking off the university grounds. That’s as far as you can go down Zzyzx Road in a vehicle.
They have a free parking lot with a restroom for visitors. We found a couple of cars there, but barely anyone was walking around the area.
Lake Tuendae Loop Trail
Gentle breezes whispered through the palms as we started on the unpaved trail. It was very quiet, except for the wildlife rustling through the brush.
California State University owns some of the areas that are closed off to visitors. We followed a sign to Lake Tuendae Loop Trail.
And we saw warning signs to watch out for rattlesnakes. Thankfully, we didn’t see any.
The short walk is not even half a mile, and it’ll take you to the oasis. Beyond the roped-off area, we saw people in the distance on the university grounds.
Palm trees lined the springs as birds gathered and sang around the water. It’s surreal to find a sanctuary like this in the middle of the desert.
Soda Springs Deserted Town
We passed the deserted town that a self-anointed doctor called Curtis Springer started in 1944. He moved to the area and became rich from mining.
Then he built up a castle, library, dining hall, and health spa, which he named “Zzyzx” because it would be the last listing in any directory. He got worldwide popularity from a radio show he started.
Over the next 30 years, people came to his health resort for healing. He shipped health products all over the country.
But his big scam fell apart after many years, and he faced legal problems. His products weren’t what he claimed, and he was accused of false advertising. He was evicted from the site in 1974.
I would have liked to explore the buildings, but they were closed off. But we were able to see a lot standing outside the ropes.
Historic Travel Stop
Besides the old health resort area, we came across an old boat and other old relics. It was interesting to see such signs of life from years past.
So many people have lived by and passed through Soda Springs. The Mohave Indians were the very first settlers, visiting the area for hunting and gathering trips.
The footpath created by the Native Americans became a wagon road. Travelers came by wagon from California to Arizona. By the 1860s, the railroad came, bringing more visitors.
Fast forward to after the fall of the health spa, and it’s travelers like us who visit the area. The Mojave Desert is full of rich history and interesting tales.
As we walked back to the parking lot, we stopped to admire the view of old buildings across the water. As the trees reflected off the water, it reminded me of so many places laid to rest after years of activity.
Travel Notes
While walking the trail, it was quite dusty. So, you’ll want to keep that in mind and wear comfortable walking shoes.
We visited in the winter, and it was nice and cool. However, the sun was still strong, so I didn’t need a jacket.
You’ll want to keep out of places that are roped off. There were plenty of signs warning to keep out, and they do have surveillance cameras.
Plus, we saw people working in the area, so they see visitors walking around. I wouldn’t risk jumping over the ropes to get a closer look.
Final Thoughts
We drove back to the highway, finally solving the mystery plaguing my mind. Now we knew where Zzyzx Road went.
Through the Mojave Desert Preserve to Soda Springs, you’ll find it. Exploring the area was such an interesting treat, and I wonder what else I could discover out there.
More Travel Adventures
I have many other related posts on my blog. You might want to check them out.
- We visited Calico Ghost Town, another fun place full of history off the I-15.
- If you like mysterious places, you might visit my post on Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.
- For more places to explore on the I-15 on an LA to Las Vegas road trip, I’ve got you covered.
I’d love to hear about your travel adventures too!
Originally published: March 10, 2025
