J18 Quartz Canyon

Total Miles 1.8
Technical Rating
4 Moderate
Best Time Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
Trail Type Full-Width Road
Accessible By
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Trail Overview

Quartz Canyon is a RETIRED Jeep Bage of Honor Trail. Embark on an action-packed and challenging nearly 2-mile loop trail, Quartz Canyon, starting and ending at Jim's Overlook in Hot Springs Off-Road Park. The trail, requiring tires of at least 32 inches and an aggressive tread, recommends a locking rear differential for optimal performance. From the "bottom" of H42, turn left onto the trailhead, exploring the lesser-traveled side of the park. Offering diverse terrains, including ledges, loose rock, and a water crossing, Quartz Canyon caters to every off-road enthusiast and shares vibes reminiscent of Snake & Rubicon Ridge. The trail features hard-pack dirt, loose medium-sized rock, and sections with exposed bedrock sporting up to 1-foot ledges. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Hot Springs Mountain Tower from Jim's Overlook. Jim's Overlook along the trail serves as a perfect spot to take a break and soak in the panoramic views. For those seeking more challenge, two 4-diamond rated trails branch off from Quartz Canyon.

Photos of J18 Quartz Canyon

Difficulty

This trail is rated on the park system as a 3. There are steep hill climbs and descents. There are a few areas with rock crawls with medium-sized rocks (one going uphill). The trail also runs along an edge of the mountain and has a few awkward turns. It but may be difficult if wet.

Technical Rating

4

Status Reports

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Blaine Seitz
May 28, 2025
Open
Probably a much easier trail when dry but in the wet and muddy conditions today it was much more difficult. My gen2 sequoia without rear lockers struggled greatly with traction on some of the hills. There are sections where you need to climb some slick rock and with tyres covered in mud and steep hills, it proved to be much harder than anticipated. Be mindful there’s very very little room to turn around. Check conditions at basecamp when you arrive and be prepared
Dayna Hancock
Oct 12, 2024
Open
Completed in stock Jeep Rubicon 2021 JL with 33 inch tires. We experienced a couple 25 degree roll but doable in a stock Rubicon! Awesome views on the mountain top before and after the trail. Also had a Tree swing at the overlook.
Brian Dell
May 25, 2024
Open
While this be rated 3/4 when dry in wet conditions moch more difficult.

J18 Quartz Canyon Trail can be accessed by the following ride types:

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

J18 Quartz Canyon Map

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