Cavanaugh Ridge

Total Miles
2.9

Elevation

3,356.81 ft

Duration

1.5 Hours

Technical Rating

4

Moderate

Best Time

Fall, Summer, Spring

Trail Overview

This fun trail climbs 1,800 feet in just 4.5 miles, reaching the cliff's edge at an elevation of over 11,000 feet. The sandy and rocky trail winds up through valleys and forests. Several sections with deep ruts, off-camber sections, and rocks make it a challenge for low-clearance vehicles and drivers with limited off-road experience. The reward is reaching the edge of the Hoover Wilderness, one of the original 54 Wilderness areas created by the 1964 Wilderness Act. At the top, a cliff offers stunning views down into the wilderness. East Lake, Nutter Lake, Gilman Lake, and Hoover Lakes can be seen sparkling below. Dunderberg Peak, Epidote Peak, Page Peak, and Gabbra Peak rise majestically above these lakes. On the way down, you'll get a glimpse (or panoramic vista, depending on the view) of Mono Lake.

Photos of Cavanaugh Ridge

Cavanaugh Ridge
Cavanaugh Ridge

Difficulty

The trail offers various rocky, uneven, off-camber, deep rutted areas. There can also be snow on the trail as late as mid-summer.

History

Trail is part of the Hoover Wilderness, one of the original 54 Wilderness areas created by the 1964 Wilderness Act.

Technical Rating

4

Status Reports

Sean C
Sep 28, 2024
2015 Toyota Tacoma
Open
Normal
Dusty
Some steep areas, some rocky areas. Overall pretty easy trail. Absolutely stunning views. Wouldn’t recommend doing this trail in a vehicle without 4lo.
K9pw Offroad Tours K9projectworks
Sep 01, 2024
4x4
Open
Dusty
Rough/Deteriorated
The trail up seemed slightly technical with a good amount of incline. Easy climb (4x4) in 4Lo with decent clearance. Made a stop to James Lake right before heading up to the overlook along the ridge. Weather at this elevation (11k ft) can change fast. Saw heavy cloud formations right in front of us on the top of the ridge. Area can be pretty windy, too.
Matt Geraci
Aug 12, 2024
4x4
Open
Normal
Some rocky sections but nothing technical. Easy trail for a 4x4 with the right tires

Access Description

Access via Dunderberg Meadow Rd from the South or Green Creek Rd Trail (which turns into Dunderberg Meadown Rd) from the North.

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