Trail Overview
This upper section of the Claycroft Road has a significantly different character than the lower section, offering a wilder and more rugged journey. The route is noticeably unmaintained, sending you pushing through very overgrown sections where thick, leafy brush and green foliage crowd the narrow dirt path. As you climb the steep, pine-needle-covered slopes, you will encounter numerous downed trees and scattered logs resting across the trail and on the high banks. Along the way, there is a small, charming creek crossing to splash through and even a random, unexpected bathtub sitting out in the woods! Because the path is so tight and blocked by debris, many folks choose to branch off onto the adjacent Claycroft Ridge OHV trail instead of pushing through. However, if you continue navigating the loose rocks and pinecones to the very end of the trail, the dense trees open up to reveal a sweeping view over the sprawling, forested valley
Difficulty
The biggest hurdle is a 100-foot stretch of trail that has been heavily washed out, leaving a deep, prominent rut directly down the middle of the path. Vehicles sitting lower to the ground will need to carefully straddle this large rut and choose precise tire placement to avoid painfully dragging their undercarriage. Additionally, be prepared to squeeze past the numerous downed trees that make the already narrow path a tight fit for any four-wheeled vehicle, all while managing traction on the steep, loose, and rocky ascents.
