Trail Overview

This is a challenging ride from the Cougar Buttes area in Lucerne Valley out to Slash X Ranch Cafe. The route will take you past the Hercules Finger rock formation. Expect open desert riding mixed with rocky hill climbs and a fun single track. Plan for it to take most of the day if making it a round trip, especially if stopping to eat at Slash X.

Photos of Cougar Buttes to Slash X Ranch Cafe

Want to see more?
View All Photos

Difficulty

Parts of this trail are suited for motorcycle, ATV, or SXS. It's not recommended for full-width or high-clearance 4X4.

Technical Rating

Mats Lund

Mar 08, 2025

Open

Lots of fine sand, sometimes fairly deep. Deep ruts just wide enough for T7. Be in the mood for sand. Then about five miles in there’s a rocky hill climb, not too extreme but challenging for big bikes. The downhill on other side fairly steep, loose rocks and small ledges. Recommend for only confident riders if on bigger bike.

Glen Williams

Apr 19, 2024

Open

Great trail! We were in a group of two bikes and a jeep. There were two spots where we deviated from the trail because it went into single-track, this AP makes working around stuff really easy, and we didn't want to separate, but it was fun overall. There was one pretty challenging hill, but if you stay to the side of the trail and out of the loose rocks, you're all good. 👍

Kayla & Jarred

Mar 09, 2024

Open