Spanish Canyon facts for kids
Spanish Canyon is a special valley found in the desert of California. It starts near the middle of Alvord Mountain and stretches south. This canyon is about 2,188 feet (or 667 meters) high at its end. It got its name from the famous Old Spanish Trail, a historic path that once went right through it. You can find its starting point at 35°07′10″N 116°35′37″W / 35.11944°N 116.59361°W.
The Story of Spanish Canyon
Early Travelers
Spanish Canyon has a long and interesting history. It was first used by brave travelers from New Mexico. These travelers were part of the Old Spanish Trail. This trail was a very important trade route. It connected places like Bitter Spring and the Mojave River. Spanish Canyon was one of the three main paths that made up this famous trail.
The Mormon Road
Later, between 1847 and 1849, the canyon became even more important. It was traveled by wagons carrying Mormons and gold seekers called Forty-niners. They were building a new wagon road. This road connected Salt Lake City to Los Angeles. It became known as the Mormon Road. By 1855, Spanish Canyon was a key part of this busy freight road. It helped people and goods travel between these two big cities.
