Chocolate Mountains, Military training mountain range in Southern California, US.
The Chocolate Mountains form a range stretching roughly 60 miles across Imperial and Riverside counties, with peaks reaching around 2,475 feet. This mountain system has served as a military training area with designated exercise zones since the 1940s.
The U.S. military designated this range as a training site during World War II when it needed locations for bombing and aerial gunnery practice. The area has been used for military exercises ever since.
The Bradshaw Trail near these mountains was one of the earliest routes settlers used in the 1800s to travel between Riverside and the Colorado River. The path remains a reminder of how early travelers crossed this region.
Access to the area is restricted due to ongoing military training operations and schedule limitations. Check conditions and operational times before planning a visit to ensure safe access.
The Little Picacho Wilderness contains roughly 38,000 acres of land with striking reddish-orange and brown stones that give the peaks their distinctive look. This coloring comes from iron oxides in the rock layers and creates a memorable landscape.
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