State Route 247

Written By Joe Banez

I decided to take a different route from Palm Desert back to the San Fernando Valley—opting for the long way through the desert instead of the usual I-10 to 210 West to 118 West. Around 4:30 p.m., I headed toward Great Rock, curious to explore something new.

It was hot, and I was sweating in the car, but I avoided using the air conditioning to prevent the engine from overheating. The last thing I wanted was for the car to stall in the middle of nowhere. As I drove deeper into the desert, the road became sandy, and my compact front-wheel-drive car started to slip slightly. That’s when doubt crept in.

I continued cautiously, but soon found a safe spot to turn around. If I had been driving a 4x4, I might have pushed forward—but in this case, turning back felt like the smarter move. A bit of a bummer, sure—but now I have one more reason to return and try again someday.

I took 247 coming back to get a look of the desert valleys in the area like Lucerne, Johnson Apple, Victorville, and so on. It was a long drive through the desert. California State Route 247 (SR 247)—is a scenic, lesser-traveled state highway in Southern California that runs through parts of the Mojave Desert. It's often favored by road trippers, bikers, and those seeking a quiet, open desert drive.

Here are some key facts:

  • Length: About 78 miles (126 km)

  • Northern Terminus: Begins in Barstow, connecting with Interstate 15

  • Southern Terminus: Ends in Yucca Valley, connecting with State Route 62

  • Key Stops: It passes through or near remote communities like Lucerne Valley and Johnson Valley.

  • Landscape: Expect expansive desert views, Joshua trees, rugged mountains in the distance, and very little traffic.

  • Activities: The region is known for off-roading, especially in Johnson Valley (home to the "King of the Hammers" off-road event), stargazing, and photography due to its wide-open skies and dramatic terrain.

It’s a road that can feel timeless—just you, the open land, and the sky. Great if you're into peaceful drives or exploring California's high desert.


Joe Banez
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