Middle Playa 2

Trail Overview

This off-road trail begins just off Middle Road, branching into the desert as a two-track route that gradually makes its way toward the coast. About half a mile in, travelers will find a flat, rocky area ideal for camping, offering a peaceful desert backdrop. As the trail progresses, it narrows slightly with a few small silt beds and mild drop-offs--nothing overly technical, but enough to keep things interesting. Some stretches are tight for full-size vehicles, with low branches that might require trimming to avoid pinstriping. After intersecting the first crossroad, the track becomes noticeably more traveled, and the nightly coastal winds leave a smooth layer of sand about two inches thick, making for a comfortable ride. Wildlife is abundant, with visible tracks from deer, foxes, bobcats, and coyotes, while the landscape bursts with desert flora and striking cactus formations. The final mile descends gently toward the coast, revealing ocean views and passing mounds of oyster and clam shells--evidence of the local fishing activity below. As the trail nears its end, the terrain transitions into a mix of sand and shell, eventually meeting a damper road near a small oceanside building that marks the route's conclusion.

Photos of Middle Playa 2

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Difficulty

While this trail isn't particularly technical, there are a few short sections with 6 to 8 inches of silt in the tire tracks and some minor ledges to navigate. Having four-wheel drive and the ability to air down is always a smart move in remote desert terrain like this, where conditions can shift quickly and recovery options are limited.

Technical Rating

Middle Playa 2 can be accessed by the following ride types:

• High-Clearance 4x4
• SUV
• SxS (60")
• ATV (50")
• Dirt Bike