BOLA Cutoff

Total Miles 8.9
Technical Rating
2 Easy
Best Time Summer, Spring, Fall, Winter
Trail Type Full-Width Road
Accessible By
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Trail Overview

Starting off Highway 1, this trail begins by winding gently through a flat desert stretch, where some litter is visible near the highway but clears up within the first quarter-mile. Soon, it joins a more defined route, likely used during the Baja 1000, but the terrain remains relatively smooth. As it meanders through the scenic Valley of the Candles, the trail offers stunning desert vegetation, both towering and ground-level. A few rocky, ledged sections present moderate challenges; careful tire placement and airing down a bit can make these climbs manageable. At the route's end, you can connect to the 12 North Loop--taking a right brings you directly to Highway 12 while continuing straight adds a brief extension that also leads to Highway 12.

Photos of BOLA Cutoff

Difficulty

This trail is relatively easy, though a few steep uphill sections with solid rock surfaces and ledges under a foot high may require four-wheel drive. With tires aired down or using four-wheel drive, these minor climbs are generally manageable, making it a comfortable route for most vehicles with off-road capability.

Technical Rating

2

Status Reports

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Eric Porter
Feb 26, 2026
Open
Far more sandy than expected. I would rate this as difficult on a big bike (Pan America or GS). Laid it down at least 6 times in deep sand and it gets exhausting to pick it up that many times in 107°F weather.

BOLA Cutoff Trail can be accessed by the following ride types:

  • Single Track
  • 50 Inch
  • 60 Inch
  • High Clearance
  • Full Width

BOLA Cutoff Map

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