Trail Overview
Ruts begin around 4–6 inches deep, with frequent rock gardens throughout. Around 0.5 miles in, a larger rock garden contains 8–12-inch rocks, although a bypass on the left allows drivers to avoid it. Some sections reach approximately 8° off-camber, and 4WD or AWD is recommended for the rougher terrain. The route travels alongside the hills and rock formations of Sawtooth Canyon, providing expansive views across the desert valley and surrounding mountains. Multiple campsites within the first 0.1 miles are tucked against the canyon and rock formations, with level ground and fire rings. Camping remains plentiful throughout this scenic desert area.
Difficulty
This trail is rated Level 3 because of the frequent rock gardens, 8–12-inch rocks, 4–6-inch ruts, and sections reaching 8° off-camber. A bypass is available around the largest rock garden, but 4WD or AWD is recommended for the rougher sections.
History
The BLM lands around Sawtooth Canyon reflect the long history of California’s Mojave Desert, where Indigenous peoples traveled and lived for thousands of years before miners, ranchers, and settlers arrived in the 1800s. The surrounding desert also contains remnants of the region’s mining and homesteading era, while its rugged volcanic rock formations preserve a much older geologic history.
