La Purisima San Juanico

Trail Overview

This off-road trail begins near the historic town of La Purisima and winds its way to Highway 1, approximately nine miles before San Juanico. The adventure starts with a river crossing, which may or may not have water depending on the season. If water is present, exercise caution--there's a stone or concrete ledge across the river commonly used for crossing, but it can be difficult to spot if submerged. After the river, the trail ascends steeply through a rocky canyon, leading to the high mesa. Along the way, you'll find excellent camping spots, with a few near the start and several more near the trail's end. On the mesa, the terrain shifts from rocky to sandy, with a scenic descent passing an old ranch, corrals, and a lush natural spring. From there, the trail transitions to deep sand, featuring steep inclines where 4WD and aired-down tires are essential. As the trail levels out, the sand becomes shallower, and the descent reveals stunning ocean views, ultimately leading to Highway 1. This route offers a dynamic mix of challenges and breathtaking landscapes, making it a must for experienced off-roaders.

Photos of La Purisima San Juanico

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Difficulty

The difficulty of this trail depends largely on conditions at the river crossing near the start. While it rarely runs with water, heavy rain or storms can significantly raise the challenge. Beyond that, careful wheel placement is crucial on the rocky climbs, though most of the trail is manageable with standard off-road caution. A key area requiring attention is the steep descent into the canyon with the natural spring, followed by a climb through deep sand with a steep incline further down the road. This section demands 4WD, low tire pressure, and maintaining momentum. Once past this challenge, the trail becomes much easier to navigate.

Technical Rating