8S05 - North Palomar Mountain Road

Total Miles
10.6

Technical Rating

Easy

Best Time

Spring

Trail Type

Full-Width Road

Accessible By

Trail Overview

8S05 is a well-maintained service road, but you can expect large rocks, ruts, and very steep drop-offs throughout. The weather could have a significant impact on the road. Muddy conditions are likely; one should ensure their vehicle is properly equipped and use caution. This drive is great for a local day drive and provides beautiful scenery throughout.

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Difficulty

This route is fairly easy however, weather could play a significant role and should be monitored before starting. Steep ledges and drop-offs throughout.

Technical Rating

Status Reports

Trail is pretty well groomed at the moment. No crazy ruts or anything.

Timo Stelzer

Nov 14, 2025

2022 Mercedes Sprinter

Temporarily Closed

The gate maybe 3 miles in is closed

Done on a stock Subaru Outback. Some sections where tires slipped but was able to continue with no problem. There were some sections with embedded rocks where I had to pick a good line but nothing too challenging for the AWD system.

Fun trail, 2WD all the way. If you do the hill climb descent challenge at halfway point, recommend 4WD as it gives inclines.