45 Cutoff - FS 25E309

Total Miles
0.6

Technical Rating

3

Best Time

Summer, Fall

Trail Type

Full-Width Road

Accessible By

Trail Overview

This 0.7-mile connector trail in the Bald Mountain trail network is a short, twisty, and fun two-track trail that is essential for linking the high-elevation roads in the area ( between Lazy M and Bow Tie). The trail features punchy climbs and minor off-camber bits that demand driver attention despite the short distance. While the canopy along the trail largely survived the 2020 Creek Wildfire (visible in photos), the route is heavily lined with dense scrub brush, which makes for a tight squeeze. It also provides access to several great dispersed camping options off an unnamed single spur along the route.

Photos of 45 Cutoff - FS 25E309

45 Cutoff - FS 25E309
45 Cutoff - FS 25E309

Difficulty

The short distance is deceiving. The rating is earned by the need for 4WD to power the steep, loose dirt climbs (visible in photos), combined with negotiating tight off-camber bits. High clearance is mandatory for safe passage, as the slow average speed confirms this trail requires deliberate, focused wheel placement to avoid sliding off the track or damaging the vehicle on exposed edges.

Technical Rating

3

Status Reports

There are no status reports yet for this trail.

45 Cutoff - FS 25E309 can be accessed by the following ride types:

  • High-Clearance 4x4
  • SUV

Access Description

From Shaver Lake/Highway 168: Access is via the long route up Kaiser Pass Road (CA 168), then branches onto the main administrative route FS 9S009 (Rock Creek Road), and then down 9S002 (Bow Tie) or 9S045 (Lazy M).

45 Cutoff - FS 25E309 Map

Popular Trails

The onX Offroad Difference

onX Offroad combines trail photos, descriptions, difficulty ratings, width restrictions, seasonality, and more in a user-friendly interface. Available on all devices, with offline access and full compatibility with CarPlay and Android Auto. Discover what you’re missing today!