Trail Overview
Chipmunk (FS 6S018) is a scruffy, spirited little side-quest located in the high country above Bass Lake. Accessed via Beasore Road and a short hop along Central Camp Road, this 1.3-mile unmaintained two-track is the definition of a "bumpy little" adventure. The tread is primarily natural dirt, which means it feels raw and connected to the landscape, rather than a manicured gravel highway. It serves as a fantastic driveway to a series of secluded, dispersed campsites, offering quiet refuge away from the main traffic flow. However, it’s not just a sleepy lane; the trail keeps you honest with a technical off-camber creek crossing that demands respect. It’s a short drive that packs a punch, rewarding those who tackle the tilt with a peaceful night in the woods.
Difficulty
While much of this trail is a bumpy Rating 2 two-track, it earns a Rating 3 specifically due to the off-camber creek crossing. Crossing water already introduces low-traction variables (wet rocks, mud), but adding an off-camber (sideways tilt) angle significantly increases the difficulty. Drivers need 4WD and potentially lockers or traction aid to prevent sliding sideways into deeper holes or damaging the vehicle's body. It requires careful line selection and vehicle control that exceeds the demands of a standard fire road.
