Traveling southeast along EP15 will lead riders to the Holly Ash/Calsilco Mines, (GPS N35.4483, W117.898). These mines were excavated for their pumice, used in many household products and cleaners like Holly Cleanser, from which the mines derive one of their names. They were operated by the Calsilco Corporation starting in 1946, giving the mines their second name.

Nearby is Bickel Camp, (GPS: N35.4361, W117.8867). This depression era mining camp was founded by Walt Bickel in 1934. Walt mined placer gold in the area using unique tools and methods he experimented with and perfected. He kept busy studying astronomy, edible plants, geology, and the archaeology of this fascinating area in the El Paso Mountains. He wasn’t often lonely, with over 40 cats for company and “to keep them rodents down!”

Continuing along EP15 and south onto EP103 brings riders to Burro Schmidt’s Tunnel, (GPS: N35.4116, W117.8741). William Henry “Burro” Schmidt was frail and small of stature, yet he prospected around Kern County and established claims in the El Paso Mountains. In 1900, he began to dig, drill, and blast his way through the interior of the mountain. In 1938, after 38 years of exhaustive mining, daylight was finally visible through the far side of the tunnel. Those with a sense of adventure can still walk through the tunnel, though a flashlight is required, and it’s important to stay mindful of low spots within.

The trail leads out to Red Rock Randsburg Road at Garlock via EP100.